4 wheel drive cars are most essential for driving in slippery and snowy conditions. Those from Subaru and Volvo are considered the best 4 wheel drive cars for snow…
The All Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four Wheel Drive (FWD) technology is one of the best advancements in the automotive world. Technically, both are different terms, but can generally be used interchangeably. This car system refers to the driver letting the engine control all axles on the vehicle, leading to a better control in difficult road conditions. Almost every company has a product offering of 4WD cars. Along with this technology, there are many other advanced features that are embedded in these cars that help the driver control the car in snow. A good point to note is that Subaru is a manufacturer who has incorporated the AWD system in all their cars and SUVs.
Best 4 Wheel Drive Cars for Snow Driving
2011 Subaru Impreza
If you are a fan of World Rally Championship (WRC), you might be aware of how Subaru cars perform in snow. The Impreza is a sedan that works out well in snowy and terrain conditions. Its most prominent feature is the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive which aids in appropriate power distribution to all wheels. Out of its 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER 2.5 liter engine, a power of 170 hp is generated. Along with the AWD system, features such as Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Brake Assist help the driver have proper control of the car in snow-clad regions. You can choose three variants of the 2011 Impreza, with 4 or 5-door options. The ‘2.5i’ trim variant is available at about $17,500, which is a very good price for an AWD with all safety features and that too from Subaru.
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evo is a suitable car to be taken in snowy roads and regions. With its 291-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC engine, it certainly performs like a sports car even in terrain. Its Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) and Active Stability Control (ASC) functions take care of traction. The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution function aids the driver in efficient braking for on-road safety. With the Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body and seven airbags, safety is not a concern. There are two trim variants in the Lancer Evo, namely GSR and MR. The former one starts from about $34,000, whereas the latter is offered at a base price of about $37,000. This car surely comes on the top of the 4 wheel drive cars list.
2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD
Swedish manufacturers do know how to manufacture a car best for snow use. This sedan from Volvo has a remarkable performance with styling and most prominently safety features. It sports a 3-liter 6-cylinder turbocharged engine which produces a powerful 300 hp. It has got an all wheel drive functionality as a standard. While driving this car in snow, the Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) can be trusted for proper wheel and engine power control on all wheels. Impressive braking is provided by Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) and Ready Alert Brakes (RAB) which are included in ABS.
A prominent feature of this car is ‘Collision Warning with Auto Brake’ which warns the driver of any potential collision and automatically hits the brakes if the driver does not respond in due time. Another good feature is ‘Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake’, wherein brakes are automatically applied in case the car detects pedestrians in its way. Note that these safety features are in addition to those found in other cars. Safety is not at all a worry if it’s a Volvo. The price of this variant of the car starts at around $38,000.
Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan
This is another good car manufactured by the Swedish company ‘Saab’. The ‘2.0T (210) XWD Manual’ Turbo4 has a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine which generates a power of 210 hp. This trim level is available at a starting price of around $32,500. It has the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) which reduces skidding and loss of control while on snowy roads. This program also has Traction Control System (TCS) that again aids in reducing wheel spinning on a slippery surface. The trademarked XWD is probably the most advanced technology manufactured in the auto industry. It adjusts power to all wheels according to exact road conditions. The Night Panel feature is one safety offering that lets you concentrate on driving while on silent roads at night.
2011 Lexus IS 250 AWD
Lexus is also a car manufacturer reputed for possessing a line up of safe-to-drive vehicles in any conditions. The Lexus IS 250 AWD is a sedan which is a reliable car to drive in snow. It mainly is incorporated with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) which consists of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) systems. Additionally, the ABS and Smart Stop functions help the driver in braking in emergency situations, regardless of how much the gas pedal is pressed. The IS 250 AWD luxury sport sedan has a 2.5-liter 204-hp V6 machine. The Advanced Front Lighting System (AFS) turns the headlights to a degree which allows the driver to have a clear view while cornering. The IS 250 AWD is priced at $37,000.
Along with the AWD system, these vehicles do have other features that help passengers remain safe in the car. Other brands such as Ford, Audi, BMW, Volkswagen, and Porsche also produce the best 4 wheel drive cars for snow. Note that every car brand has some or the other unique features which help in the passenger safety and comfort.