Best cars for winter

Last updated: Jan 4, 2013

The market is now awash with capable SUVs, many of which come in environmentally friendly, two-wheel-drive form for buyers who value style over substance or practicality. Manufacturers still understand the importance of off-road, all-weather ability – and with winter coming, many buyers are turning to these cars for peace of mind in adverse weather.

But you needn’t splash out on a flagship SUV like the BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne if you want to stay on the move through the winter. Bargain vehicles like the Dacia Duster and Suzuki Jimny offer all the ability of upmarket 4x4s at a fraction of the price. What's more, plenty of manufacturers now offer standard road cars with all-wheel-drive running gear – look no further than the Audi TT quattro if you want a sports car with all-weather ability.

So if you’re in the market for a capable winter car, be sure to check out our top 10.

  1. 1

    Fiat Panda 4x4 hatchback
    4.0 /5
    The accomplished Fiat Panda city car has a lesser-known, snow-friendly stable mate – the Panda 4x4. With raised ground-clearance and a set of economical engines, the rugged Fiat is an affordable alternative to the thirsty and cumbersome school run SUVs. It’s great to drive, too, while the extra suspension makes for a comfortable ride.
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    Fiat Panda 4x4 hatchback
  2. 2

    Dacia Duster compact SUV

    £8,995 - £14,995

    4.9 /5
    Due this December, the Dacia Duster offers SUV looks and commendable off-road ability for the price of a modest supermini. Available in both two and four-wheel-drive, the Duster should be on your list if you want a good value, winter-friendly car. The economical 1.5-litre diesel engine should keep running-costs down, too.
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    Dacia Duster compact SUV
    Car of the Year
  3. 3

    Land Rover Discovery 4 SUV

    £38,825 - £57,775

    4.5 /5
    This list wouldn’t be complete without a Land Rover. The Discovery is expensive, but nothing this side of a Defender comes close to matching it for sure-footed, all-weather ability. If the likelihood of getting snowed-in this winter worries you, you can’t go far wrong with the Discovery.
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    Land Rover Discovery 4 SUV
  4. 4

    Kia Sportage SUV

    £17,300 - £28,500

    4.7 /5
    The Kia Sportage was crowned our 4x4 of the year in 2012 due to its mix of driver enjoyment, comfort and quality. The comprehensive seven-year warranty, extensive list of safety equipment and practical interior make it a versatile SUV. The Sportage offers a well-rounded package and is a top-notch winter car.
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    Kia Sportage SUV
    Best 4x4 2012
  5. 5

    Skoda Yeti SUV

    £15,735 - £26,410

    4.7 /5
    The Skoda Yeti has been a runaway success since its launch in 2009 – and for good reason. It’s great to drive and cheap to run, while the practical interior makes carrying large items a doddle. Specify four-wheel-drive and you’ve got yourself a great winter companion.
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    Skoda Yeti SUV
  6. 6

    Hyundai Santa Fe SUV

    £25,850 - £27,050

    3.6 /5
    Although Hyundai is asking a £3,000 premium for the new Santa Fe over the old one, the revised SUV still represents good value. Standard kit is impressive, while the all-wheel-drive models offer a decent degree of all-weather grip. Attractive styling and the option of seven seats complete the package.
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    Hyundai Santa Fe SUV
  7. 7

    Nissan X-Trail SUV

    £25,790 - £30,975

    4.0 /5
    We first saw the Nissan X-Trail in 2001, and over the last 10 years, it’s proved itself a dependable and capable 4x4. Its versatile and hard-wearing interior make it a superb family SUV, while its rugged looks and off-road ability mean it will remain sure-footed throughout the winter months.
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    Nissan X-Trail SUV
  8. 8

    Audi TT Coupe

    £24,355 - £47,480

    4.4 /5
    A surprise addition to our top 10 winter cars, the Audi TT quattro is available as a coupe or convertible and can be specified with Audi’s famous all-wheel-drive quattro system. This makes it a superb all-weather sports car. Top-notch build quality and strong residuals make it a great new or used buy.
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    Audi TT Coupe
  9. 9

    Volvo XC90 SUV

    £36,045 - £45,295

    4.1 /5
    The XC90 is over 10 years old now, but don’t let that put you off. It’s a testament to its robust build quality and attractive styling that the car has remained largely unchanged for so long. Dealers are offering big discounts now, making Volvo’s premium SUV better value than ever.
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    Volvo XC90 SUV
  10. 10

    Suzuki Jimny SUV

    £11,995 - £13,800

    3.9 /5
    Despite its size, the tiny Jimny is a remarkably capable 4x4. It’s a bargain new buy, with even some versions of the flagship SZ4 model coming in at under £13,000. If a prestige badge isn’t a priority, and you don’t need the size and space of a large SUV, the Jimny is a sure set of winter wheels.
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    Suzuki Jimny SUV