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Best Small Suv For Winter Driving (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for a dependable vehicle to help you tackle the winter roads, a small SUV may be the perfect option for you. While there are many different models to choose from, it’s important to consider a few important factors before making your decision.

First and foremost, you’ll want to think about the vehicle’s traction and stability control features. Look for a small SUV that offers all-wheel or four-wheel drive, as this will give you enhanced control and handling on slippery roads. Additionally, models with electronic stability control or hill descent control can help you maintain control in a variety of different terrains.

Another key factor to consider is the vehicle’s ground clearance. You’ll want to look for a small SUV with enough clearance to handle snow-packed roads and deep snow drifts. A high ground clearance will also give you more flexibility to take your vehicle off-road, if you’re interested in exploring beyond the pavement.

Still unsure which small SUV is the best option for your winter driving needs? Consider asking yourself some of the following questions. Do you regularly drive on steep, snowy roads? Do you prefer to have a smaller, more agile vehicle on the road? Are you looking for a vehicle with advanced safety features to help keep you and your passengers safe in any conditions? By asking yourself these types of questions, you can help narrow down your options and find the perfect small SUV for your winter driving needs.

10 Best Small Suv For Winter Driving

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for providing traction to vehicles stuck in snow, ice, mud, or sand.
2
The Car Safety Kit is ideal for emergency roadside assistance with tools, first-aid, jumper cables, LED warning light and strong bag.
3
Emergency roadside kit for vehicles, including a portable air compressor, jumper cables, tire repair kit and essential tools/accessories.
4
The product is ideal for emergency situations on the road and provides essential safety items like jumper cables, tow ropes, etc.
5
It is ideal for providing all-weather traction aid for full-size pickup trucks and SUVs.
6
This product is ideal for providing winter driving security and traction on SUV and car tires with a width of 7.2-11.6 inches.
7
The product is ideal for protecting the floors of a Ford Super Duty truck's first and second row seats.
8
This product is ideal for providing extra traction and grip for cars/trucks stuck in mud, snow, ice, or sand.
9
It is an ideal accessory for protecting the interior flooring of a vehicle from dirt, debris, and spills.
10
Ideal for providing traction in off-road mud, sand, and snow during vehicle extraction and recovery.
It is ideal for providing traction to vehicles stuck in snow, ice, mud, or sand.
The Car Safety Kit is ideal for emergency roadside assistance with tools, first-aid, jumper cables, LED warning light and strong bag.
Emergency roadside kit for vehicles, including a portable air compressor, jumper cables, tire repair kit and essential tools/accessories.
The product is ideal for emergency situations on the road and provides essential safety items like jumper cables, tow ropes, etc.
It is ideal for providing all-weather traction aid for full-size pickup trucks and SUVs.
This product is ideal for providing winter driving security and traction on SUV and car tires with a width of 7.2-11.6 inches.
The product is ideal for protecting the floors of a Ford Super Duty truck's first and second row seats.
This product is ideal for providing extra traction and grip for cars/trucks stuck in mud, snow, ice, or sand.
It is an ideal accessory for protecting the interior flooring of a vehicle from dirt, debris, and spills.
Ideal for providing traction in off-road mud, sand, and snow during vehicle extraction and recovery.

1. Wawaauto Traction Mat Set.

Looking for a reliable solution to get your car out of snow, ice, mud, or sand? Look no further than these traction track mats! This pack of two mats measures 22 inches in length, 7 inches in width, and 1/2 inch in height each, providing ample space for your tires.

It's important to note that these mats are directional, so make sure to keep the side with the "This Side Up" indication facing upward to ensure optimal performance.

Thanks to their adjustable angle, these mats are suitable for use on various types of roadways, making them a versatile addition to your emergency kit. Plus, their all-weather design ensures that they can be relied upon in any condition.

The hexagonal honeycomb design of these mats is specifically engineered to increase friction and provide reliable traction, allowing your vehicle to grip the surface and gain the necessary traction to get moving. Despite their rugged design, these mats are surprisingly lightweight and easy to carry with you wherever you go.

When it comes to weight capacity, these mats can bear up to 3.5 tons, making them suitable for use with a wide range of vehicles. Whether you're driving a small sedan or a heavy-duty truck, these mats are up to the task.

2. Noone Car Emergency Kit – Stay Safe!

The MUST HAVE EMERGENCY PACK is an essential kit for all drivers, ensuring they are prepared for unexpected auto emergencies. Whether travelling in a car, SUV, or truck, this kit provides the necessary tools to deal with a breakdown or stranding, especially in the winter season. It guarantees a safe journey and road trip for all drivers.

This emergency kit contains all the essential roadside assistance tools, including jumper cables, LED warning light, 2-in-1 screwdriver, cable ties, first aid kit, slip joint pliers, and other emergency items. All these items are easy to carry, thanks to the storage handbag, which is small and lightweight. The kit fits easily in the backseat or trunk for convenient storage and is the best partner for traveling and driving, taking up minimal space.

The LED warning flashing light is an essential item in this emergency kit. It is powered by 2 AA batteries, which can run for more than 48 hours. The super bright LED warning flash light is visible up to 1 mile at night and has 11 different flashing modes, including SOS rescue, 1 LED flashlight, and 10 warning flashlights, which can help in different situations. It could be used as a warning light, as a rescue beacon, and for any other emergencies.

This emergency kit is perfect for first-time car owners or anyone who owns a car, truck, or RV and is not fully prepared for their road trips or daily commutes. It makes the perfect gift for your loved ones to keep them prepared for a breakdown. Additionally, it is perfect for travelling, camping, hiking. All of the tools are handpicked to deal with the roadside emergency problems at peace, protecting your journey safely.

The manufacturer of this portable safety kit has ensured that it is of premium quality and manufactured under strict quality standards to give our customers the best experience. The company is confident in the product's durability and offers 100% worry-free use. Customers can contact them with any questions even after 3 years of use.

3. Aqua.81 Roadside Rescue Kit – Stay Safe!

The Blikzone Auto Emergency Car Kit is a comprehensive kit designed to help protect your loved ones in case of unexpected roadside emergencies. This car survival kit includes a portable mini air compressor with a 300 psi capacity, heavy-duty #8 gauge battery jumper/booster cables, a 19-piece circuit tester tool, a 7-piece tire repair kit, an improved 5 ton (10,000 lbs) tow strap with hooks, a reflective safety vest, and much more.

The small, compact air compressor is a handy tool that can inflate car, bike, and motorbike tires, as well as other inflatables, saving you time and money. Unlike other roadside emergency car kits on the market, this kit covers a wide range of fixes and includes many quality and useful supplies and accessories, all packed into one sturdy case.

By keeping this car tool kit and emergency roadside kit in your trunk, you can feel confident and prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise while on the road. This car essentials kit is the perfect gift for car necessities for women, car accessories for teens, first-time car owners, or even experienced car enthusiasts. Additionally, owners of second-hand high mileage vehicles should have this road trip essential in their vehicle to prepare for any unexpected roadside events.

This car emergency kit is designed in the USA and is 100% guaranteed. Unlike other car essentials kits that are filled with unnecessary first aid items, this kit is functional and contains all the necessary car essentials for men, women, and teens. The high-quality, durable bag is also aesthetically pleasing and will withstand years of use.

4. Essential Auto Safety Kit With Jumper Cables & More

CYECTTR has created a Car Emergency Kit that is both durable and high-performing, with the aim of keeping drivers safe and prepared for any unexpected situations. The kit is specifically designed to provide all the essential tools needed for emergencies on the road.

This roadside assistance kit contains a variety of safety items, including a reflective warning triangle, safety vest, gloves with gripping palms, tow rope, hand-driven LED flashlight, safety hammer and seat belt cutter, adhesive tape, raincoat, fuse set (10 pieces), test pencil, whistle, multi-function tool card, tire pressure gauge, screwdriver, snow shovel, jumper cables, and a rugged bag to keep it all organized.

The compact size of the emergency kit makes it easy to store in the trunk or spare tire compartment, yet still contains all the necessary tools for unexpected events. It is an essential travel companion for road trippers, commuters, and families, and makes an ideal emergency kit for women, men, adults, and teens. It also makes a great gift for new drivers, high school and college students.

CYECTTR is committed to providing quality products and excellent customer service. If for any reason the customer is not satisfied with their purchase, the company offers a full refund. If there are any questions or concerns, CYECTTR encourages customers to contact their customer service team for the best possible assistance.

5. Shurtrax Clw0056 Lw-0056 All Weather Traction Aid For Full Size Pickup Trucks/suvs, Black

This product is designed to enhance handling and improve traction control by adding traction weight over the rear axle. It is a safe and reliable solution for transporting cargo without compromising the stability of the vehicle. The product comes with brass grommet tie-downs that ensure the cargo is securely fastened and remains in place throughout the journey.

The outer chamber of this product is 25 millimeters thick, which provides durability even in rugged environments. The vinyl used in its construction is UV-resistant, which ensures that it retains its color and does not crack or fade when exposed to sunlight. Additionally, the product is reinforced with woven nylon mesh, which adds strength and prevents tearing or punctures.

This product has been rigorously tested and can support up to 500 pounds of cargo, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Its design is such that it distributes the weight evenly over the rear axle, which improves the handling and stability of the vehicle. This product is a must-have for anyone who needs to transport cargo safely and efficiently.

6. Snowsecure Universal Car Snow Chains

This premium snow chain is a must-have for drivers who frequently travel in snowy, muddy, icy, or mountainous areas. It is made of high-quality TPU material that is wear-resistant, non-slip, and can withstand temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius.

The snow chain boasts an excellent design that ensures superior performance in anti-skid, ice-breaking, and road-gripping, resulting in maximum driving safety. Additionally, it is easy to carry, and when not in use, it can be conveniently placed in the tool bag, making it an essential tool for various road emergencies.

Installing the snow chain is simple and fast, thanks to the through buckle that allows for easy installation and a hard knot that ensures a perfect fit. The snow tire chains can be installed and removed in minutes without the need to take down the tires. Moreover, you can install the chains by yourself without anyone's help.

This snow chain is designed to fit all models with tire width between 185-295mm/7.2-11.6", making it a universal model that is suitable for most cars, SUVs, and trucks. It comes equipped with adjustable tension bands and double clamps that ensure a secure fit on your tires.

The product comes with an 18-month warranty and a 30-day no-hassle return policy, ensuring that you can buy with confidence. If for any reason you are dissatisfied with the product, you can contact the seller, and they will offer you a satisfactory solution.

7. Weathertech Custom Fit Floorliner For Ford Super Duty – 1st & 2nd Row (Black)

This premium product is specially designed to fit select Ford Super Duty models, ensuring a seamless installation process. To confirm the fitment of this product, simply enter your vehicle information above.

Crafted with precision in the USA, this product boasts exceptional quality that you can rely on. Each mat is laser measured to ensure a precise fit, providing maximum coverage for both the first and second rows of your vehicle.

One of the key features of this product is its high lip design, which is specifically engineered to effectively contain any liquids or spills that may occur during use. This means that you can confidently transport liquids and other substances without worrying about any mess or damage to your vehicle's interior.

8. Bashik Off Road Traction Mat – Grasp Strong!

Introducing the BASHIK off road accessories Portable Recovery Traction Mat, a reliable and sturdy solution to help your car or truck get out of mud, snow, sand, or ice emergency situations. This traction mat boasts a strong grasping strength that surpasses other smaller tire traction mats. It can also take the place of the recovery traction boards, tracks, and tire ladders, while taking up less space in the rear trunk.

With a width of 10.6 inches, the BASHIK Recovery Mat is consistent with the width of most tires, while its length of 39.4 inches is more convenient than 24 inches for big mud, sand, snow, or ice. The alloy studs on the mat are made of special treated alloy and Tungsten steel which are very hard, wear-resistant, and rust proof. These studs are easy to insert into the ice or frozen hard soil, providing much stronger grasping strength between the mat and the ground.

Made of TPE material, the BASHIK Recovery Mat has good friction with rubber tires and will not become hard and brittle in frozen weather. It is also connected by a steel rope, making it reliable and sturdy. Additionally, it comes with a bag and a pair of sleeves to make it portable and clean. You can easily fold it and put it into the car in cold weather without dirtying or wetting your hands. The bag will also help keep your car clean.

9. Weathertech First And Second Row Floorliner (Black)

The interior of your vehicle deserves the best protection, and with this custom-fit floor liner, you can ensure that your car's floors are safe from dirt, debris, and spills. The liner is designed to fit the floor space of your car precisely, providing complete coverage that can be easily customized to your vehicle's unique shape.

The front liners are made from a high-density tri-extended material that provides exceptional strength, while the rear liners are constructed from a durable rubber compound that offers superior protection against wear and tear. This combination of materials ensures that your floor liner will stand up to the toughest conditions and provide long-lasting performance.

With its rigid core strength and advanced surfacing, this floor liner offers superior surface friction that keeps your feet firmly planted, even in wet or slippery conditions. The advanced surfacing technology also minimizes fluid movement, preventing spills and stains from spreading and damaging your vehicle's interior.

When spills do occur, the fluid is easily trapped by the liner's advanced surface design, making it simple to remove and clean up. This helps to maintain the pristine condition of your car's floors and ensures that your vehicle stays looking great for years to come.

10. Maxsa Escaper Buddy Traction Mats

Introducing the Escaper Buddy, a set of two traction mats that are designed to help prevent vehicle tires from spinning on snow, ice, mud, or sand. Each mat measures 48 inches in length and 14.5 inches in width, making them more than 30% larger than other traction mats on the market. With a weight of 17 pounds combined, the Escaper Buddy is one of the longest and heaviest traction mats available, making it ideal for off-road use in extreme weather conditions.

The raised tracks on the mats are specifically designed to enhance the friction of your vehicle's tires, allowing them to gain traction in snow, sand, mud, or ice. Additionally, the ergonomic handles make it easy to transport the mats from one location to another.

Constructed from high-impact polypropylene plastic, the Escaper Buddy is lightweight yet durable. It can withstand UV rays and corrosion, ensuring that it will last for years to come. The mats can hold up to 10 tons, making them suitable for a variety of vehicles.

Unlike other traction mats, the Escaper Buddy does not require any towing or pushing. It works by simply enhancing the friction of your vehicle's tires, allowing them to gain traction in challenging conditions. It is effective in extreme weather conditions, functioning in temperatures as cold as -15°C (5°F) and as hot as 90°C (195°F).

In addition to providing traction, the Escaper Buddy can also be used as a shovel to help prepare your vehicle for emergency situations. Its teeth are designed to enhance the friction of your vehicle, while its durable construction ensures that it won't bend or break.

Best Small Suv For Winter Driving FAQs

What are the top small SUVs for winter driving?

When it comes to winter driving, having a reliable vehicle with good traction and handling is crucial. Small SUVs have become increasingly popular due to their versatility and ability to handle various road conditions, including winter weather. Here are some of the top small SUVs for winter driving:

1. Subaru Crosstrek: This compact SUV comes with all-wheel drive as standard, making it a reliable choice for winter driving. It also has good ground clearance and a solid build, making it suitable for harsh winter conditions.

2. Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 comes with i-ACTIV all-wheel drive, which monitors road conditions and adjusts power to each wheel accordingly. It also has a spacious interior and good fuel efficiency, making it a great all-around choice.

3. Honda CR-V: The CR-V has a reputation for reliability and practicality. It also comes with all-wheel drive as an option, making it a good choice for winter driving.

4. Ford Escape: The Escape comes with available all-wheel drive and has a powerful engine, making it a good choice for those who need extra traction in snowy conditions. It also has a spacious interior and good safety ratings.

Overall, these small SUVs offer good traction, handling, and reliability for winter driving. It's important to note that having winter tires is also essential for safe driving in winter conditions.

What small SUVs have all-wheel-drive as standard?

There are several small SUVs available in the market that come with all-wheel-drive as standard. One such option is the Subaru Crosstrek, which is a subcompact SUV that offers an impressive off-road capability, making it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts. Another popular choice is the Mazda CX-30, which comes with i-Activ AWD as standard and offers a refined driving experience with its responsive handling and smooth ride. The Toyota RAV4 is also a great option, offering excellent fuel economy, spacious interior, and impressive off-road capability. Other noteworthy mentions include the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and Kia Seltos, all of which come with all-wheel-drive as standard and offer a great balance of comfort, performance, and versatility. It's worth noting that while all-wheel-drive may come as standard on these models, it's always a good idea to check with the dealership to confirm the specifications and features of the specific model you're interested in.

What small SUVs have heated seats and steering wheel for winter driving?

There are several small SUVs that come equipped with heated seats and a heated steering wheel, making them ideal for driving in chilly winter weather. One popular option is the 2021 Mazda CX-5, which offers these features as part of its optional Cold Weather Package. The 2021 Honda CR-V is another small SUV that has the option of heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as part of its Touring trim level. The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited also comes standard with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Additionally, the 2021 Kia Sportage offers heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as part of its EX trim level. As you can see, there are several small SUVs that offer these convenient features to keep you warm and comfortable during winter driving.

What small SUVs have the best fuel economy for winter driving?

When it comes to small SUVs with the best fuel economy for winter driving, there are a few options to consider. One of the top choices is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which offers an impressive 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Another great option is the Honda CR-V Hybrid, which delivers an estimated 40 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Both of these models come equipped with all-wheel drive, which is ideal for winter driving conditions.

Other small SUVs with good fuel economy and all-wheel drive include the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, which gets up to 90 MPGe and offers impressive handling in snowy conditions, and the Ford Escape Hybrid, which delivers up to 44 mpg in the city and has a range of up to 582 miles on a single tank of gas. Ultimately, the best small SUV for winter driving fuel economy will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but these models are all worth considering.

What small SUVs have the best safety features for winter driving?

When it comes to small SUVs with the best safety features for winter driving, there are a few options worth considering. One of the top choices is the Subaru Forester, which comes standard with all-wheel drive and has earned top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Another great option is the Mazda CX-5, which also comes with all-wheel drive and offers advanced safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. The Honda CR-V is another popular choice, with its available all-wheel drive system and suite of safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Finally, the Toyota RAV4 is a reliable and safe choice, with standard all-wheel drive and features like a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and lane departure alert. Ultimately, the best small SUV for winter driving and safety depends on your specific needs and preferences, so it's important to do your research and test drive a few options before making a decision.

What small SUVs have the best value for winter driving?

When it comes to winter driving, small SUVs are a popular choice due to their higher ground clearance and all-wheel drive capabilities. Some of the best small SUVs in terms of value for winter driving include the Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-5, and Honda CR-V.

The Subaru Crosstrek has standard all-wheel drive and a high ground clearance of 8.7 inches, making it a great option for tackling snowy roads. It also comes with features such as heated seats and a windshield wiper de-icer, making it even more practical for winter driving.

The Mazda CX-5 also has available all-wheel drive and a high ground clearance of 7.5 inches. It has impressive handling and stability control systems, making it a safe and reliable option for winter driving.

The Honda CR-V also has available all-wheel drive and a high ground clearance of 7.8 inches. It has a spacious interior and comes with features such as a heated steering wheel and heated front seats, making it a comfortable option for winter driving.

Overall, these small SUVs offer great value for winter driving due to their all-wheel drive capabilities, high ground clearance, and practical features.

Which small SUVs have the best ground clearance for snow?

When it comes to small SUVs that can handle snowy conditions, ground clearance is an important factor to consider. A higher ground clearance allows the vehicle to navigate through deeper snow without getting stuck.

Some of the small SUVs with the best ground clearance for snow include the Subaru Crosstrek with 8.7 inches, the Jeep Renegade with 8.7 inches, and the Mazda CX-5 with 7.5 inches. The Subaru Crosstrek is a popular choice for its excellent all-wheel drive system and ground clearance. The Jeep Renegade is also a good option with its 4×4 capability and off-road features. The Mazda CX-5 may not have the highest ground clearance, but it offers excellent handling and stability on snow and ice.

It's important to note that while ground clearance is important for driving in snowy conditions, it's not the only factor to consider. All-wheel drive, traction control, and snow tires are also crucial for safe and reliable winter driving.

Which small SUVs have the best snow tires for winter driving?

When it comes to winter driving, having the right tires can make all the difference, especially if you drive a small SUV. Some of the best small SUVs with the best snow tires for winter driving include the Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5.

The Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for winter driving because it comes equipped with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and X-Mode technology, which maximizes traction on slippery surfaces. Additionally, the Forester is available with Bridgestone Blizzak snow tires, which are specifically designed for winter driving and provide excellent grip in snowy and icy conditions.

Another great option is the Honda CR-V, which also comes with available all-wheel drive and is equipped with Michelin Latitude Tour HP tires. These tires are designed to provide excellent handling and traction in snowy and icy conditions, making it a reliable choice for winter driving.

Lastly, the Mazda CX-5 is a popular choice for winter driving because it comes equipped with i-ACTIV AWD and is available with Toyo Observe GSi-5 snow tires. These tires are specifically designed to provide excellent traction in snowy and icy conditions, making it a great option for those who live in areas with harsh winter weather.

Overall, these small SUVs with their respective snow tires provide the best performance and safety during winter driving. It is important to note that choosing the right tires for your specific location and driving needs is essential for your safety on the road.

Which small SUVs have the best traction control systems?

When it comes to small SUVs, there are a few that stand out in terms of their traction control systems. One of the best options on the market is the Subaru Crosstrek, which comes standard with all-wheel drive and a traction control system that helps to deliver excellent grip on both dry and slippery roads. Another great choice is the Mazda CX-5, which features a predictive i-ACTIV AWD system that uses sensors to monitor road conditions and adjust power distribution accordingly. The Honda CR-V is also a popular choice, thanks to its Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System, which provides excellent traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions. Other small SUVs with notable traction control systems include the Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your driving needs and preferences, so it's important to test drive several models to find the one that suits you best.

Which small SUVs have the highest reliability ratings for winter driving?

When it comes to small SUVs with high reliability ratings for winter driving, there are a few models that stand out. The Subaru Forester is a popular choice for its standard all-wheel drive system and excellent reliability ratings. The Toyota RAV4 is also a reliable option, with a solid track record for durability and a variety of features that make it well-suited for winter driving. Another good choice is the Honda CR-V, which also offers all-wheel drive and consistently receives high marks for reliability.

Other notable options include the Mazda CX-5, which has a strong reputation for handling and performance in all weather conditions, and the Hyundai Tucson, which has improved its reliability ratings in recent years and offers a range of features to help with winter driving.

Overall, when choosing a small SUV for winter driving, it's important to look for models with all-wheel drive, good ground clearance, and reliable performance in cold and snowy conditions. By doing your research and choosing a model known for its reliability, you can feel confident and safe on the road this winter.

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