Ben’s Top SUVs for Winter Driving
When the temperature drops and the roads turn icy, having the right car makes all the difference. SUVs are a great choice for winter driving thanks to their higher driving position, strong grip and stability in tricky conditions.
Here are some of Ben’s top picks for SUVs that handle cold weather with confidence, comfort and reliability.
Nissan Qashqai 4×4
One of the UK’s best-selling SUVs, the Qashqai is a great all-rounder for families. The 4×4 version feels solid on the road and handles winter conditions with ease. It is well known for being reliable and reassuring to drive, giving you confidence on cold, wet winter mornings. With plenty of space and comfort, it handles everything from icy city streets to snowy school runs.
Why we recommend it: Dependable, family-friendly and capable in snow, the Qashqai is a practical choice for everyday winter driving.
Audi Q5 Quattro
If you want a touch of luxury without compromising on winter performance, the Audi Q5 Quattro is a brilliant option. The Quattro four wheel drive system gives excellent traction and stability, while inside it feels premium and well built. Running costs can be higher, but it feels safe, smooth and stable whatever the weather brings.
Why we recommend it: Safe, comfortable and reliable, the Q5 gives you peace of mind in all weathers.
Volvo XC60
Volvo builds cars for Scandinavian winters and it shows. The XC60 offers understated luxury with a real sense of safety. It is solid, predictable and one of the safest cars in its class. Whether it is freezing fog or slushy roads, the XC60 takes it all in stride.
Why we recommend it: Built for winter, beautifully finished and one of the safest choices on the market.
Volvo XC90
If you need more space, the XC90 offers all the quality of the XC60 with the bonus of seven seats. It is built for Scandinavian winters and combines practicality with safety, feeling stable and confident in the snow. It is ideal for families who want a car that performs just as well in winter as it does year-round.
Why we recommend it: Room for everyone, packed with safety features and built to handle whatever winter brings.
Range Rover Evoque
For those who like comfort and luxury, the Evoque delivers. The 4×4 version is more than capable in UK winters, and the heated seats, steering wheel and windscreen make cold mornings far more bearable. Reliability can vary, so a full service history is important, but few cars make winter driving feel this good.
Why we recommend it: Stylish, warm and capable, perfect for anyone who wants comfort and confidence on cold days.
Land Rover Discovery
If you want an SUV that handles winter roads with confidence and ease, the Discovery is a great choice. It is built for tough conditions but offers complete comfort inside. The terrain response system adapts to snow, ice or mud automatically, making it one of the most capable winter cars on the road. Make sure it has a good service history with regular servicing and checks to keep it performing at its best.
Why we recommend it: Seven-seat comfort and great off-road ability make the Discovery ideal for cold weather adventures.
Fiat Panda Cross 4×4
A personal favourite, the Panda Cross might look small, but it is full of character and a true go anywhere car. Light, tough and surprisingly confident on snow, it is a fun option if you want something different from the usual SUV crowd.
Why we recommend it: Compact, quirky and great in the snow, the Panda Cross proves you do not need a big SUV to handle winter confidently.
Ben’s Winter Tip
Many SUVs are built with winter in mind. Features like heated windscreens, selectable drive modes and traction control make a big difference on cold mornings.
For any car, the biggest factor for winter driving safety is the quality of tyres fitted to it. Make sure your SUV has good all-season tyres, or switch to winter tyres for the colder months. It helps your car make the most of its technology, improving grip and braking in icy or wet weather.
Let Ben Find Your Perfect Winter Car
Looking for a car that feels safe and confident in icy conditions? Tell us what you need and Ben handles the rest. Every car Ben sources is accident-free, finance-clear, mileage-verified and comes with a 12-month MOT and nationwide warranty.
If you need a new car before winter sets in, Ben can often find the right one in as little as 24 hours, making it quick and simple to get ready for the season ahead.
