According to many professionals, now is an excellent time to replace your old family vehicle with a new one capable of tackling harsh winter conditions, particularly with winter fast approaching and year end incentive programs in full swing. Listed below are four top family cars for winter driving, bearing in mind safety measures, competitive pricing, and additional features bound to make both parents and their children happier on the road.
Subaru
Subaru has a reputation for rugged, well-built vehicles with excellent four-wheel-drive systems. For a family that does not want to switch to a minivan or SUV, the Subaru Outback and Legacy are perfect options for winter driving. These two Subarus do not carry any premium over their rivals such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, particularly with a starting price of approximately $20,000 for the Legacy sedan and a little bit over $23,000 for the Outback wagon. However, both the Outback and Legacy have the year-round advantage of all-wheel drive, which both models combine with enhanced ground clearance to ensure that drivers do not experience any problems when driving in inclement weather conditions.
In addition to reasonably priced options, these two Subaru models also have a generous list of standard features including sat navigation, climate control, and a vast range of safety equipment. As such, drivers do not need to make any sacrifice for all-weather capabilities, especially since both are extremely competent in slippery conditions. Both cars are spacious, comfortable, and boast of excellent handling capabilities. Additionally, you have a choice of diesel or petrol engines, as well as automatic or manual transmission, all of which are ideal features for any family intending to drive during the winter.
Toyota Sienna
Despite the increase in demand for all-wheel-drive cars, the famous Toyota Sienna is the only minivan offering this feature, which is exceptionally good news for families seeking a minivan, particularly since the newly redesigned Sienna is one of the best vans currently available. The Sienna’s powerful 266-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, the only featured engine in all-wheel-drive models, delivers up to 22 miles per gallon while driving on the highway. Bluetooth, power sliding doors, satellite radio, steering wheel audio controls, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a rearview camera are only but a few of the standard features included in this minivans design. With excellent handling, a price range of approximately $32,000, and adequate space for an entire family on top of the standard features mentioned above, the Toyota Sienna is a great alternative for families worried about their safety while driving in the harsh winter weather.
Volkswagen Touareg
Volkswagen's midsize Touareg SUV features two new and exciting power plants designed to effectively improve fuel efficiency, a characteristic that is bound to attract and resonate with the sensible, economical side of many families. In addition to the enhanced fuel efficiency, Volkswagen's midsize Touareg SUV also features all-weather capabilities and an elegantly stylish exterior. Thanks to its diesel powertrain, the 225-horsepower Touareg TDI is capable of delivering up to 28 miles per gallon while driving on the highway. With exceptional handling, braking, and a starting price range of approximately $46,000, this vehicle is an excellent choice for the family. While the Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid costs about $60,000 and features a powerful 380 horsepower capable of delivering a combined city and highway fuel economy of approximately 22 miles per gallon, a traditional V6 model of this popular SUV is also available at a starting price of around $43,000, it produces 280 horsepower. In addition to its spacious interior and excellent levels of comfort, these models cater for almost every power requirement and ensure safety while driving in winter.
Ford Explorer
It is easy to see why the new Ford Explorer has been a hit since its debut. At a starting price of about $30,000, this SUV comes with a generous list of standard features including an antiskid system with rollover sensors, curtain side airbags, remote keyless entry, steering wheel audio controls, and an important third row of seats on top of the all-wheel-drive. The new Ford Explorer features a robust 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine capable of delivering up to 25 mpg on the highway. This spacious, comfortable and high-performance vehicle is ideal for winter driving.
The choice of a family car for winter driving ultimately comes down to personal preferences, needs, and budget. However, considering safety and comfort levels is of uttermost importance. Reaching out to professionals, such as those at car dealerships in St. George, is one of the best ways to ensure you get a suitable vehicle for your entire family as winter draws close. It is definitely essential for you to do all that you can to find the best and safest car for you and your family this winter.
