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These vehicles will take you through the snow and ice of the season
Published: February 2015
When winter's wrath hits hard, a car with all-wheel drive is your best bet to help navigate the roads safely.
All-wheel drive (AWD) feeds power to all four wheels and provides maximum forward traction. It is especially helpful in wintry conditions and when driving over moderate off-road terrain. Its lightness and compactness makes AWD the system of choice for cars and crossovers. Many modern systems exact only a slight fuel economy penalty, and their engagement is seamless.
But there are limitations of AWD, as it does nothing to improve braking or regular cornering. Thus, such systems don't enable you to drive the same way or at the same speed as you would on a dry road.
If you're considering a new car and live in an area where roadways could be covered with ice, snow, or other traction challenges, take a look at the models below to find AWD choices in a variety of vehicle categories.
How big a factor is all-wheel drive on your next new car?
Tell us why you would buy or skip an AWD car below.
Best and worst new cars
See our best and worst section to help filter down your purchase considerations including best new cars under $25K, best and worst new car values, and most fun to drive.
