The Best Cars for Winter Driving

Driving in winter conditions is certainly no joke, as you have to remain on constant alert to maintain vehicle control, and ensure the safety of the vehicle and to preserve the lives of you and your passengers. Before embarking on your winter-wonderland vacation through the Austrian Alps, or Swiss ski villages, Auto Europe has compiled a short list below of our top recommendations ranking the best cars for winter driving conditions. It should also be noted that during winter months, or in countries where snow is prevalent year-round, most rental suppliers accommodate travelers with free winterized snow tires, to help ensure driving safety. Learn more about the assortment of vehicle types and classes we offer by visiting our fleet guide page today!

Rent a Volvo XC70

This mid-sized crossover estate car comes standard with all-wheel drive, and performance upgrades, including an 8-inch lift, to provide additional support on rugged terrain. Included in the Volvo XC70 are many features that help maintain safety and maneuverability, including a torque-heavy diesel engine option for increased grip and balance. The under body of the vehicle is clad with panels to help avoid potentially detrimental scratching, and interior grab handles have been added to support passengers while navigating rough terrain. What you have here then, is a rugged wagon equipped with a variety of interior luxury features, meant to handle even the harshest winter conditions, while maintaining family safety. Furthermore, it is capable of handling a significant weight load without compromising performance, or fuel-economy.

One of the best features on any Volvo vehicle, aside from being among the best cars for winter driving, is a load of automated assistance to help drivers navigate rough terrain with ease and efficiency, all while maintaining profound safety features. Originally created to handle harsh winter driving conditions in Scandinavia, it's safe to assume that the Volvo XC70 is built to last. The vehicle also features integrated child seats, and the posh cabin maintains the luxury wagon design aesthetic. The Volvo XC70 is more than just an SUV. This powerful vehicle is reinforced with plenty of cargo carriage space, and a variety of off-road powertrain options you can rely on.

Rent a Subaru XV Crosstrek

The Subaru XV Crosstrek is an outstanding compact vehicle, and the reliable Subaru design comes standard with a symmetrically-designed four-wheel drive system, capable of independently adapting the suspension and power output of all 4 wheels to establish the best traction possible. Even slippery weather conditions, such as those encountered during winter driving, will not slow this highly-capable vehicle down. With precision electronics and computer sensors, the Subaru XV Crosstrek keeps power evenly distributed for optimal traction and drive force to keep you and your loved ones on the road under harsh winter conditions. Controlled Vehicle Dynamics, with distribution for brake force, coupled with a sensitive anti-lock brake system, and full force brake distribution, makes this Subaru model one of the safest four wheel drive vehicles, and one of the best cars for winter driving. With all of Subaru's innovative technology working in harmony, the end result is a ridiculously safe and dynamically handling crossover utility vehicle, providing you with a sense of unfettered driving confidence, unmatched by many other competitors.

Rent a Volkswagen Passat Wagon/Estate

Here you have one of Volkswagen's top tier models, with a wonderfully spacious and cozy interior, and superior handling ability in all weather conditions. The Volkswagen Passat Wagon is definitely among the best cars for winter driving. As a touring vehicle, the VW Passat Wagon comes standard with an increased luggage capacity, and the butter-smooth suspension makes driving a delight. Not only does this vehicle run with optimal fuel efficiency for a car of this size, but the beautiful and aerodynamic body styling makes the VW Passat Wagon incredibly agile, possessing handling similar to that of much smaller sports cars.

When you rent a Volkswagen Passat Wagon from Auto Europe, you can choose between hybrid, diesel, and gasoline engine variants, though it's recommended that you go with the 148hp TDI 2.0 liter, because the additional torques afforded by the turbo-diesel will provide the the most versatile balance of both, accurate handling in real life weather conditions, and top-notch fuel economy. Your family is safer, and you get the power you need to make it through slippery spots without sliding. This is a stably balanced vehicle at a practical cost for extreme weather conditions. Additionally, you have the features of extra storage space and increased leg room included.

Rent an Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 is a powerful vehicle designed for winter driving. To put this Audi Q7 in the simplest terms: It is a vehicle prepared for winter weather in all respects, from standard-spec all-wheel drive, to undercarriage protection, and automatic traction control. Not only is the design sleek, but one of the Q7 variants sports a modern diesel engine. Unlike clunky old diesel engines, this one runs clean and sharp, providing your vehicle with prime performance, reliability, and an increase in torque for slippery roads.

This model heats up rapidly under cold temperatures and it does so quietly. Then, on the road, it provides exceptional performance. You will be able to avoid slips and skids, preventing accidents through expert weight distribution, and adjustable suspension settings. The Audi Q7 is basically a sports car in SUV guise, with additional off-road capabilities.

Next, consider the Audi Interior. Every inch of the cabin has been meticulously detailed, and designed to be as intuitive as possible on this model. You get a luxury interior, complete with a rapid heating system, so you can drive long distances while cozied up in plush, heated leather seats. What more could you ask for?

Discover the Best Car for Winter Driving with Auto Europe

Now that you've perused Auto Europe's Best Car for Winter Driving recommendations, consider booking one of our winter car rentals, or another of your choosing from Auto Europe's extensive fleet guide, and get your winter vacation started today!

Also offering deals on international airfare, hotel accommodations, and luxury car rentals, Auto Europe is your one stop shop for all your travel and transport needs. Give us a call today, available 24/7 at 1-888-223-5555, and speak to one of our knowledgeable reservations staff to get your booking underway, or just get some travel questions answered. With over 60 years as a travel industry leader, Auto Europe will do whatever it takes to ensure your next vacation is a success.