Whether you live in an area with a very harsh climate or you’re preparing for a long trip to the mountains, choosing the right car is an essential decision for your safety and overall driving experience.
Wintertime throws an array of unique risks for drivers, including snow and ice, which can reduce traction and give drivers less grip on the roads.
This makes corners particularly hazardous, especially when you’re driving at speed. Below, we’ve listed just a few of the things to look out for if you’re searching for a new set of wheels for winter.
All Wheel-Drive
Firstly, all-wheel drive (AWD) is the most sensible choice for anyone driving through the depths of winter. Most cars on the road in UK are front-wheel drive (FWD), which means the engine transfers power directly to the front two wheels. While FWD does perform well in light snow, it has certain limitations when surfaces become very icy or slippery with deep snow.
In an all-wheel drive car, the engine powers all wheels for maximum traction. These vehicles are better at moving from a standstill and accelerating in a smooth line in snow, which are typically difficult to achieve in a FWD car.
If you’re on a budget, you can find plenty of high-quality used cars with AWD power at affordable prices. All-wheel-drive vehicles typically include pickup trucks, SUVs and sport-specific variations of family cars.
Photo by Hardeep Singh
Quality Tyres
Next, any vehicle can become better adapted to driving in snowy weather if it’s fitted with high-quality winter tyres. These are more technical than all-season tyres, which often promise to deliver performance in snow but still struggle with extreme winter conditions.
For your peace of mind, it’s best to choose premium winter tyres from a reputable brand such as Michelin, Continental or Goodyear. These will be designed by automotive experts and feature the most innovative tread patterns that reduce stopping distances in icy conditions. Winter tyres typically also have a deeper tread, reducing the risk of losing grip due to compacted snow.
Higher Ride
Finally, driving through the depts of winter needs you mean to be ready for any challenge. By choosing an SUV or another vehicle with higher suspension than typical saloons or hatchbacks, you can drive with more confidence.
Whether you’ll be heading offroad or sticking to the main routes, snow and ice can conceal holes and obstacles on your route. SUVs are better adapted for driving in tricky weather conditions largely due to their raised driving position, which not only protects the vehicle but gives you a clearer view of the road ahead too.
So, it’s time to start looking for the best trucks, crossovers and SUVs to suit your winter driving needs. With the right vehicle and quality tyres, you’ll be on your way to becoming a seasoned pro in the snow.
Whether you live in an area with a very harsh climate or you’re preparing for a long trip to the mountains, choosing the right car is an essential decision for your safety and overall driving experience.
Wintertime throws an array of unique risks for drivers, including snow and ice, which can reduce traction and give drivers less grip on the roads.
This makes corners particularly hazardous, especially when you’re driving at speed. Below, we’ve listed just a few of the things to look out for if you’re searching for a new set of wheels for winter.
All Wheel-Drive
Firstly, all-wheel drive (AWD) is the most sensible choice for anyone driving through the depths of winter. Most cars on the road in UK are front-wheel drive (FWD), which means the engine transfers power directly to the front two wheels. While FWD does perform well in light snow, it has certain limitations when surfaces become very icy or slippery with deep snow.
In an all-wheel drive car, the engine powers all wheels for maximum traction. These vehicles are better at moving from a standstill and accelerating in a smooth line in snow, which are typically difficult to achieve in a FWD car.
If you’re on a budget, you can find plenty of high-quality used cars with AWD power at affordable prices. All-wheel-drive vehicles typically include pickup trucks, SUVs and sport-specific variations of family cars.
Quality Tyres
Next, any vehicle can become better adapted to driving in snowy weather if it’s fitted with high-quality winter tyres. These are more technical than all-season tyres, which often promise to deliver performance in snow but still struggle with extreme winter conditions.
For your peace of mind, it’s best to choose premium winter tyres from a reputable brand such as Michelin, Continental or Goodyear. These will be designed by automotive experts and feature the most innovative tread patterns that reduce stopping distances in icy conditions. Winter tyres typically also have a deeper tread, reducing the risk of losing grip due to compacted snow.
Higher Ride
Finally, driving through the depts of winter needs you mean to be ready for any challenge. By choosing an SUV or another vehicle with higher suspension than typical saloons or hatchbacks, you can drive with more confidence.
Whether you’ll be heading offroad or sticking to the main routes, snow and ice can conceal holes and obstacles on your route. SUVs are better adapted for driving in tricky weather conditions largely due to their raised driving position, which not only protects the vehicle but gives you a clearer view of the road ahead too.
So, it’s time to start looking for the best trucks, crossovers and SUVs to suit your winter driving needs. With the right vehicle and quality tyres, you’ll be on your way to becoming a seasoned pro in the snow.
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