Canadian winters are no joke. From the lake-effect snow squalls of southern Ontario to the deep freezes of the Prairies and the mountain passes of B.C., drivers across this country need vehicles that can handle whatever Mother Nature throws their way. While a good set of winter tires remains the single most important upgrade, starting with the right SUV gives drivers a serious head start when the temperature drops and the snow piles up.
The SUVs on this list have been chosen for their cold-weather credentials, including capable all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive systems, generous ground clearance, terrain management features, and practical interiors built to handle wet boots, ski gear, and everything in between. Some are luxurious, others are rugged, but each is well-equipped to keep drivers moving when winter sets in.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy. For more information, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Best SUVs for Snow in Canada in 2026
CarGurus expert rating: 9.0 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.8%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Comfortable |
No hybrid option |
| Plenty of cargo space |
|
| Plenty of passenger space |
|
The Honda Pilot is a highly capable choice for tackling harsh Canadian winters, coming equipped with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) across all trim levels. Under the hood, a robust 3.5-litre V6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission that provides confident acceleration for merging and passing in snowy conditions. For families needing maximum versatility, the Pilot offers exceptional interior space, including a removable second-row centre seat. Behind the third row, buyers will find a generous 635 litres of cargo capacity, which expands to a massive 3,219 litres with both rear rows folded flat, ensuring plenty of room for winter sports gear and family luggage.
When navigating icy roads, the Pilot's revised steering and stable on-centre feel provide drivers with added confidence and control. The cabin is well-equipped for cold-weather road trips, featuring a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety is paramount for winter driving, and the Pilot delivers with the standard Honda Sensing suite, which includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. For those seeking even more capability in deep snow, the TrailSport trim offers enhanced off-road abilities and rugged styling to handle the toughest Canadian elements.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Clever features help the Pilot stand out from other three-row SUVs. Our only major complaint is the lack of a more fuel-efficient model." - Mark Takahashi, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Honda Pilot review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.2 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.3%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Middling fuel economy |
| Small but mighty Hurricane 4 Turbo engine |
Poor value for money |
| It's a towing and off-road champ |
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The Jeep Grand Cherokee brings serious credentials to the winter driving conversation, with standard four-wheel drive across the lineup. When equipped with the available Selec-Terrain system, drivers can dial in a dedicated snow mode that optimizes traction on slippery, ice-covered roads. For even more capability in deep snowdrifts, the top Summit trim features a sophisticated Quadra-Drive II 4WD system and an available height-adjustable air suspension that can increase ground clearance on demand. Powering through winter storms is effortless thanks to the new Hurricane 4 Turbo engine, which delivers a robust 324 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque.
Inside, the Grand Cherokee provides a welcoming refuge from the cold, featuring standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Higher trims offer additional winter-ready comforts, including heated second-row outboard seats to ensure passengers stay cozy. The two-row model offers a generous 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 2,004 litres with the rear seats folded down.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The turbo-four engine is impressive, but it can't account for the lack of a hybrid powertrain — or the price tag for the best version of this grand dame of SUVs." - Stephen Edelstein, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Jeep Grand Cherokee review
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CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Limited rear-seat space |
| Excellent off-road abilities |
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| Relatively fuel efficient |
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The completely redesigned Toyota 4Runner offers a compelling blend of modern comfort and legendary all-terrain capability. Built on the same rugged platform as the Tacoma, this midsize SUV features standard part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) on entry models, while full-time 4WD is available on the Limited and Platinum trims. Inside, the cabin is significantly more refined and quieter than its predecessor, featuring chunky, glove-friendly climate controls that are easy to operate in freezing temperatures. Behind the second row, buyers will find a generous 1,371 litres of cargo space in standard models, providing ample room for winter gear, snowboards, and emergency supplies.
Under the hood, the 4Runner ditches the old V6 for a standard 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a robust 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking even more muscle to push through deep snowdrifts, the available Hybrid i-Force Max powertrain pairs the turbo engine with an electric motor to generate an impressive 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid setup slightly reduces cargo capacity to 1,206 litres due to the battery placement but offers massive low-end grunt that's ideal for tricky, low-traction winter conditions. With improved handling, advanced terrain programs, and standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 features, the new 4Runner is a highly capable and secure choice for Canadian winters.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Toyota doesn't throw out the formula with its newly redesigned 4Runner. Instead, it keeps many of the features shoppers have loved for over a decade, while also adding a more contemporary selection of four-cylinder powertrains." - Mark Takahashi, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Toyota 4Runner review
CarGurus expert rating: 6.5 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Fun to drive |
Noisy |
| Impressive off-roading capability |
Poor ride quality |
| Removable top and doors |
Poor value for money |
Few vehicles instill as much confidence on a snow-covered backroad as the Jeep Wrangler, thanks to its legendary four-wheel-drive capability and high ground clearance. Buyers can choose between a standard 3.6-litre V6 engine or an optional turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder that delivers 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged option is particularly lively and pairs exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing the necessary grunt to push through heavy snowdrifts and navigate icy inclines with ease.
Inside, the Wrangler is built to handle the wet and messy aftermath of winter adventures, featuring durable materials and drain holes in the floor so buyers can easily wash out slush and salt. While passenger space is adequate, the four-door model offers a practical 897 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to a generous 2,050 litres when folded down—perfect for hauling snowboards, winter gear, and emergency supplies. Modern touches such as the standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensure drivers stay connected even in the most remote, snow-covered landscapes.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Rough, raw, and unrefined, the Wrangler is made for adventure and getting dirty. This Jeep can be unpleasant to drive daily, yet we love it just the same." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Jeep Wrangler review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 27.1%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Impressive off-road capability |
Potentially polarizing design |
| Lots of utility |
Sluggish performance |
| Good safety ratings |
Dissatisfying infotainment system |
A perennial favourite among Canadian winter drivers, the Subaru Forester comes equipped with the brand's standard Active Torque Split all-wheel-drive system. For those navigating deep snow or icy backroads, the X-Mode Dual Mode traction system includes specific Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings to maximize grip when conditions deteriorate. Under the hood, the Forester relies on a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. While it isn't the quickest off the line, the continuously variable transmission features a shorter final-drive ratio in the Wilderness trim, providing excellent low-speed responsiveness.
Beyond its winter-ready drivetrain, the Forester offers practical features designed to make cold-weather adventures easier. The impressive 23.6 centimetres of ground clearance on the Wilderness model ensures drivers can easily clear unplowed streets and deep ruts. Inside, the classic boxy design maximizes utility, offering 779 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to a generous 1,957 litres when the 60/40-split rear seats are folded down. With water-resistant artificial leather upholstery and all-weather floor mats designed to trap melting snow and salty slush, the Forester's cabin is perfectly equipped to handle the messy realities of a Canadian winter.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Push the Subaru Forester Wilderness to its limits, and you'll be impressed by its off-roading capability. But even if you're not planning to traverse challenging terrain, it is comforting to know that the Wilderness offers more competence than a typical crossover SUV when confronted with unexpected situations." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Subaru Forester review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.0 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Strong off-road capabilities |
Higher trim levels have diminishing returns |
| Comfortable |
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| Plenty of cargo space |
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The Subaru Outback blends the practicality of a wagon with the rugged capability of an SUV, making it ideally suited to Canadian winters. Every Outback is equipped with Subaru's legendary standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and an impressive 22 centimetres of ground clearance, allowing it to easily plow through deep snow and navigate unplowed roads. When conditions get particularly treacherous, the standard X-Mode system optimizes traction at speeds up to 40 km/h, providing drivers with added confidence on icy or rutted surfaces. Under the hood, buyers can choose between a standard 2.5-litre boxer engine delivering 180 horsepower, or a more potent turbocharged 2.4-litre engine that produces 260 horsepower, both paired with a smooth continuously variable transmission.
Inside, the Outback is perfectly suited for winter adventures and hauling cold-weather gear. The cavernous cargo area offers 980 litres of space behind the rear seats, which expands to a massive 2,280 litres when the seatbacks are folded down—plenty of room for skis, snowboards, and bulky winter equipment. Loading up in the cold is made easier thanks to a standard power liftgate and a relatively low liftover height. Furthermore, Subaru has thoughtfully reintroduced physical climate control buttons and knobs, meaning drivers can easily adjust the cabin temperature without removing their winter gloves.
The CarGurus Verdict: "In terms of price, performance, and practicality, we found no notable flaws with the redesigned Outback, making it a top choice for adventure-bound shoppers." - Mark Takahashi, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Subaru Outback review
CarGurus expert rating: 6.5 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.7%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Poor fuel economy |
| Fun to drive |
Advanced safety features are not standard |
| Impressive off-road capability |
Poor value for money |
The Ford Bronco is a formidable contender for harsh Canadian winters, thanks to its robust four-wheel-drive systems and advanced terrain management features. All models come standard with 4WD, but upgrading to trims such as the Badlands or Heritage adds an advanced system with an Automatic mode that takes the guesswork out of driving on snow-covered or icy roads. The Bronco's G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes include a Slippery setting specifically designed for winter weather, while the available Sasquatch package adds 35-inch tires and locking differentials to help power through deep snowdrifts with confidence.
Under the hood, the Bronco offers a standard 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower, or an optional 2.7-litre EcoBoost V6 that bumps output to 330 horsepower for even more winter-busting capability. Inside, the four-door model provides ample room for winter gear, offering 1,084 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats with the soft top, or 1,008 litres if you opt for the winter-friendly hard top. With standard features such as post-collision braking and available heated front seats on the Big Bend trim, the Bronco ensures drivers stay secure and warm during cold-weather commutes.
The CarGurus Verdict: "While the Bronco is an extremely fun beast that's a blast to play with on-road and off, it requires some serious compromises to use as a daily driver, and it's hardly a bargain." - Jeremy Korzeniewski, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Ford Bronco review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.3 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Multiple body styles |
Poor fuel economy |
| Multiple powertrain options |
Poor handling (on pavement) |
| Fun to drive |
Poor visibility (to the rear) |
For drivers who want to take on a Canadian winter in style, the Land Rover Defender stands out as an exceptionally capable companion. Equipped with standard all-wheel drive and an advanced Terrain Response 2 system that includes a dedicated Grass/Gravel/Snow mode, this rugged SUV is purpose-built to conquer deep drifts and icy roads. The available adaptive air suspension can raise the vehicle to provide an impressive 29 centimetres of ground clearance, ensuring drivers won't get high-centred on unplowed streets. Under the hood, the available turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine delivers a robust 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, providing the necessary muscle to push through heavy snowfalls with confidence.
Inside the cabin, the Defender balances its industrial, utilitarian roots with premium features designed to keep occupants warm during the coldest months. The Cold Climate Pack and heated seats across multiple rows ensure passengers remain comfortable, while the highly effective climate control system quickly thaws the interior. For winter road trips or hauling ski gear, the Defender 130 configuration offers excellent practicality. With the third row folded, shoppers get 1,237 litres of cargo space, which expands to a cavernous 2,520 litres with all rear seats down, providing more than enough room for snowboards, winter emergency kits, and bulky winter coats.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There is a Land Rover Defender for almost anyone, and any of them can take you farther into the wilderness than you expect. They're rugged but refined, comfortable yet capable, and plenty of fun to drive." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Land Rover Defender review
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CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 0.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 0.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Capable AWD |
Expensive |
| Smooth engine performance |
Trades fuel efficiency for AWD capability |
| Stylish design |
Unimpressive technology |
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid combines a compact footprint with Subaru's legendary symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, making it an excellent companion for Canadian winters. Unlike many competitors that use electric AWD, the Crosstrek relies on a mechanical driveshaft to send power to the wheels, resulting in highly capable and predictable traction on snowy and icy roads. It also features the standard X-Mode traction management system with specific dirt and snow settings, while the dual-function X-Mode adds deep snow and mud settings to automatically maintain speed on slippery descents. Inside, the cabin is built for utility, and the cargo area offers a practical 527 litres of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,433 litres when folded.
Powering this winter-ready crossover is a 2.5-litre boxer engine paired with an electric traction motor, delivering a combined system output of 194 hp. This hybrid setup provides noticeably quicker and smoother acceleration than the gas-only model, making highway merging a breeze while maintaining a robust 63-litre fuel tank for long-distance trips across Canada. With an estimated 7.6 L/100 km in real-world mixed driving, it offers a solid balance of efficiency and all-weather capability. Standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel further enhance its appeal as a top-tier winter commuter.
The CarGurus Verdict: "With its attractive styling, comfortable interior, and tested AWD system, the Subaru Crosstrek delivers a terrific package, even if it's not as efficient as some larger (and more expensive) competitors." - Matt Smith, CarGurus Head of Content
Read our full Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid review
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CarGurus expert rating: 6.5 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: N/A
| Pros |
Cons |
| Powerful engine options |
Cheap interior materials |
| Generous cargo space |
Firm ride quality |
| Tight turning radius |
Frustrating infotainment in Guest mode |
The BMW X3 is a compelling luxury option for Canadian winters, coming standard with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system across all trims. Buyers can choose between the base 30 xDrive, which features a sprightly 255-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, or the performance-oriented M50 with its silky-sweet 393-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine. Both powertrains offer confident acceleration and capability, while the X3's tight turning radius and responsive steering make it easy to maneuver through snow-banked city streets.
Inside, the X3 offers a practical and spacious cabin well-suited for winter gear. The power liftgate opens to reveal a generous 892 litres of cargo space, which expands to 1,900 litres with the 40/20/40-split rear seats folded down—perfect for hauling skis, snowboards, or bulky winter supplies. Passengers will appreciate the standard heated front sport seats wrapped in BMW's Veganza artificial leather, providing essential warmth during cold commutes. While the interior design leans towards a cold, industrial aesthetic, the standard panoramic glass sunroof helps brighten the cabin during short, dark Canadian winter days.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For this review, we evaluated the BMW X3 M50. It was terrific, but with a sticker price more than $15,000 higher than the rewarding X3 30 xDrive, it’s hard to justify the extra money." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full BMW X3 review
FAQ
Do I still need winter tires if I buy an AWD or 4WD SUV?
Yes. All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive help with traction when accelerating, but they don't improve braking or cornering grip on snow and ice. Winter tires are made from a softer rubber compound that stays pliable in cold temperatures, providing significantly better grip than all-season tires regardless of how many wheels are driven. In most Canadian provinces, winter tires are strongly recommended, and in Quebec they're legally required from December 1 to March 15.
What's the difference between AWD and 4WD for winter driving?
All-wheel drive (AWD) systems typically operate automatically, sending power to whichever wheels need it most—ideal for everyday winter driving on snowy and icy roads. Four-wheel drive (4WD) systems are generally found on more rugged SUVs and trucks and often include low-range gearing for serious off-road or deep-snow situations. For most Canadian commuters, AWD is more than sufficient, but for those who live in a rural area or regularly tackle unplowed roads, 4WD can be a real asset.
How much ground clearance do I need for snowy conditions?
For typical urban and suburban winter driving, around 18 to 20 centimetres of ground clearance is usually adequate. Those who live in areas with heavy snowfall or frequently travel on unplowed rural roads should look for an SUV with 20 centimetres or more. Models such as the Subaru Outback, the Subaru Forester Wilderness, and the Land Rover Defender offer some of the highest ground clearance figures in this guide.
Are hybrid SUVs good in winter?
Yes, hybrid SUVs can perform very well in winter conditions. The instant torque from electric motors can actually help with smooth, controlled acceleration on slippery surfaces. Cold weather reduces hybrid fuel efficiency somewhat, as the engine runs more often to warm the cabin and battery, but the trade-off is generally minimal. Models such as the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and the Toyota 4Runner Hybrid offer the best of both worlds.
What winter features should I look for in an SUV?
Beyond AWD or 4WD and good ground clearance, buyers should look for heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated side mirrors, a remote start system, and a good set of all-weather floor mats. Terrain management systems with a snow mode are also helpful. For longer commutes, advanced safety features suc as blind-spot monitors and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality can make winter driving safer and less stressful.
Is it better to buy a new or a used SUV for winter driving?
Both options have merit. A new SUV offers the latest safety technology, terrain management systems, and a full warranty—important considerations for those who rely on their vehicle in harsh conditions. A used SUV can offer significant savings and may be the gateway to a higher trim with more winter-friendly features. Those buying used should prioritize vehicles with documented maintenance history and consider getting an independent inspection to check for rust, suspension wear, and undercarriage damage from road salt.
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Most car-buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations driven primarily by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers—real owner experiences and current market value.
Our expert reviewers come from some of North America and Canada's most trusted automotive publications, bringing hands-on experience testing vehicles. They put each car through its paces and create detailed reviews covering everything from form and function to performance and cost effectiveness.
But we don't stop there. We also analyze hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus.ca to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of great deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to hear from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings rated as good or great deals into a final Overall CarGurus Rating—a three-way approach that reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver real satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
*The CarGurus market data in this guide was last updated in June 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.*
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