US News & World Report Says These Are The Best Cars For Winter Driving

The past couple of years in New England haven't produced a lot of weather of concern. Here's some proof. I had to search for my ice scraper/brush the other day to prepare for our first snow real snow in 2 years. I can't remember the last time I used it. But here we are. barely in the door of January and snow is coming. That lead me to wonder.., what are the best cars on the road today to handle winter weather conditions. The answers are here in a report from a trusted source. U.S. News & World Report says these are the best cars for winter driving.

SCORE: 8.1/10
PRICE: $41,535

The Grand Cherokee comes with a price, but a great vehicle nonetheless. My mother had one for years and it was always reliable. U.S. News & World Report says this car is comfortable "and reassuring in nasty weather." It's a smooth ride that feels like it was meant for snow. But they do recommend the Trailhawk Trim level, for more advanced off road capabilities and technology.

https://www.edmunds.com/jeep/grand-cherokee-l/2023/

SCORE: 8.1/10
PRICE: $28,895

Rugged and dependable, those are words that come to mind for the Outback, in my experience. But don't take my word for it. US News reports: "The Subaru Outback simply kicks butt for a winter vehicle. It’s as purpose-built as they come, equipped with standard all-wheel drive, loaded with safety features and finished with easy-to-clean materials." It's a great family vehicle and perfect for those ski trips to New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont. Swish...

https://www.subaru.com/vehicles/outback/features.html

SCORE: 8.2/10
PRICE: $57,000

She's a beauty, but she's also a beast. Of course the price reflects the luxurious ride that is the Volvo S290. This spacious sedan :inspires extra confidence during winter driving with standard all-wheel drive. The S90 's base setup is a mild-hybrid powertrain with 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, " according to the article.

https://www.edmunds.com/volvo/s90/

SCORE: 8.2/10
PRICE: $26,395

Everyone I know who owns a Forester absolutely loves it! It ranks high for the characteristics that you should look for in a high quality winter car. There's standar all-wheel drive, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Plus, how the driver is seated gives you the best view of the road ahead. Upright seating helps you view potential hazards.

https://www.motortrend.com/cars/subaru/forester/2023/

SCORE: 8.3/10
PRICE: $45,900

The Audi Allroad wagon's "all-wheel drive and adaptive suspension come standard, so the car basically knows what's going on, and reacts to it before you do." Those are strong words to live up to, and apparently, this car does. It's said to be a competent car on snow and ice. Ride on in luxury.

https://www.edmunds.com/audi/a4-allroad/

SCORE: 8.3/10
PRICE: $29, 215

This sweet and skillful ride flexes is a strong choice. US News says, it's a "sport utility vehicle with muscular styling and the off-road chops to match."  There's plenty of ground clearance at 8.8 inches. And the Bronco comes with standard 4 wheel drive. There are also multiple drive modes to help you in all conditions. Put it in into "Slippery" mode when there's a nasty mix of rain, ice and snow.

https://www.edmunds.com/ford/bronco-sport/2023/

SCORE: 8.3/10
PRICE: $38,800

I've always loved the look of this truck. It's basically a Honda Pilot with a bed. So, business in the front, party in the back. You can bring this baby to the next ski resort party. US News reports the Ridgeline "is a top-ranked compact truck that’s a great choice for winter driving, thanks to its combination of a powerful V6 engine and standard all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive system features selectable mud, sand and snow driving modes."

https://www.motortrend.com/cars/honda/ridgeline/

SCORE: 8.4/10
PRICE: $24,390

Small and mighty, that's the subcompact SUV Kia Seltos, according to this report. There's plenty to love about this little ride and reportedly a surprising amount of passenger head and leg room. The adept Seltos has standard all-wheel drive in the base LX trim and a "146-horsepower four-cylinder, routing power through a continuously variable transmission." You should opt for the upgrades of heated front seats and a remote starter.

https://www.kia.com/us/en/seltos

SCORE: 8.5/10

PRICE: $28,400

According to the publication rankings, this little SUV is "a winner in winter and every other time of the year." There's space for 5 passengers and their stuff. The report went on to say, "This Hyundai is a lot nicer than its modest price suggests, and it comes standard with enough safety tech to help you feel confident regardless of road conditions." Bang for your buck, here.

https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/2023-tucson

SCORE: 8.8/10

PRICE: $37,990

https://www.kia.com/us/en/telluride