Best Subaru Models for Snowy Conditions

Subaru vehicles have long been a favorite among drivers facing harsh winter conditions, thanks to their performance and reliability. In snowy environments, having the right vehicle can make a significant difference in safety and comfort during travel.

Exploring Subaru’s offerings reveals several models that perform well when the weather turns icy.

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is a key feature that distinguishes the brand, particularly in snowy conditions. This system is designed to provide balance and stability, which are essential when navigating slippery roads. Unlike AWD systems that activate only when slippage is detected, Subaru’s system is always active, distributing power evenly to all four wheels. This constant engagement improves traction and control, making it easier to handle icy or snow-covered roads.

The horizontally opposed Boxer engine, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, complements the AWD system by lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity. This design enhances stability and handling, resulting in a more responsive driving experience—especially useful when quick maneuvers are needed on winter roads.

Subaru’s AWD system is also known for its durability. The brand has a reputation for building long-lasting vehicles, and this system is no exception. For drivers who regularly face harsh winter conditions, this reliability provides added confidence.

Ground Clearance

Ground clearance is a significant factor in ensuring a safe and smooth drive through snowy terrains. Subaru models are well-suited for winter conditions, offering generous ground clearance to navigate deep snow without damaging the undercarriage. This feature helps maintain momentum and reduces the risk of getting stuck in snowdrifts.

The Subaru Outback and Forester are standout models in this regard, each offering 8.7 inches of ground clearance. This height allows them to handle snow-covered obstacles with ease. Their smooth suspension systems also absorb road irregularities, ensuring a comfortable ride even on uneven surfaces.

Higher ground clearance also improves visibility. A raised driving position gives Subaru drivers a better view of the road ahead, which is particularly helpful during snowstorms or foggy conditions when visibility is limited.

Winter Tire Compatibility

Equipping your Subaru with the right winter tires can significantly improve performance on icy roads. Winter tires are specially designed with tread patterns and rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold temperatures, offering better grip and braking ability than all-season tires.

Subaru models like the Crosstrek and Ascent accommodate a variety of winter tire options, allowing drivers to choose tires that suit their local conditions. For example, deeper tread patterns are ideal for areas with heavy snowfall, while intricate siping patterns are better for icy surfaces.

Proper installation and maintenance are essential when switching to winter tires. Ensuring correct balance and alignment can prevent uneven wear and extend tire life. Regularly checking tire pressure is also important, as cold temperatures can cause it to drop, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. Many Subaru owners opt for a separate set of wheels for their winter tires, simplifying seasonal changes and preserving both tire sets.

Advanced Safety Features

Subaru vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features that enhance security during winter driving. The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology uses cameras to monitor traffic, optimize cruise control, and provide lane-departure warnings. This system acts as an extra set of eyes on the road, offering added reassurance during long drives in poor weather.

Additional features like Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are particularly useful in winter, when snow or fog can reduce visibility. These systems use radar to alert drivers of nearby vehicles, helping to prevent collisions. Such features are especially valuable in challenging conditions, where awareness of one’s surroundings is more difficult to maintain.

Interior Comfort

Subaru vehicles are designed to keep drivers and passengers comfortable, even in cold weather. Heated seats, available in models like the Legacy and Impreza, provide warmth on chilly mornings, making winter commutes more pleasant.

Dual-zone automatic climate control allows both the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures, ensuring everyone stays comfortable. Some models also include heated steering wheels, which help drivers maintain a warm grip on the wheel during cold weather. These features make Subaru interiors a welcoming retreat from harsh winter conditions.

Cargo Space for Winter Gear

Subaru vehicles offer ample cargo space, making them ideal for transporting winter gear. The Outback, for example, provides up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, accommodating skis, snowboards, and other equipment with ease.

Flexible design features, such as 60/40 split-folding rear seats, allow for a customizable cargo area that can fit both passengers and gear. Roof rails, standard on models like the Ascent, provide additional storage options for oversized items like roof boxes or snowshoes. These practical features ensure Subaru vehicles are ready for any winter adventure.