The best road cars with four-wheel drive that are great in snow – and one to avoid

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Snow has already hit parts of the UK as we head into what forecasters predict will be a extremely cold winter. Many drivers, especially those in more rural areas, are likely wondering if their vehicle is capable of handling these conditions.

"In the United States, the number of new electric vehicles (EVs) registered has exceeded the number of gas-powered vehicles. This includes popular low-cost brands like Tesla and Ford."

A system that can send power to each tire, providing the additional traction of a four-wheel drive SUV without its disadvantages.

Adding a set of all-season or winter-specific tires will give you a vehicle that should be able to handle most of what the darker months can throw at you.

These five new and used cars of varying sizes are more than up to the task. There's also one model we'd avoid – and its premium badge might come as a surprise.

Best for comfort

Skoda Superb 4WD (2015-2023)

The Czech company's large family vehicle has a long history of offering plenty of room for its passengers to spread out. It also has an extremely spacious cargo area, making it easy to transport a long list of items.

What really sets the Superb apart is its extremely comfortable suspension, which gets even better if you choose a model with adaptive suspension (standard on top-of-the-line Laurin & Klement models).

With frugal diesel or powerful petrol engines available in a range of specifications, locating a Superb to meet your needs shouldn't be a challenge.

from £10,000

2016 Superb 2.0 TDI 190 L&K, 57,000 miles, full service history, $19,345.

Transmission issues with the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), faulty air conditioning systems, failure to change the Haldex fluid as scheduled, and leakage of shock absorbers on vehicles equipped with adaptive suspension.

Best for safety

Volvo V60 Cross Country (2019).

It's not a surprise that the V60 is the safest way to get four-wheel drive in an estate car, given Volvo's strong reputation for safety. Its V60's impressive crash test results are actually ahead of its larger V90 sibling's and far surpass many of its competitors.

That's not all the V60 has to offer, of course. A luxurious interior with plenty of room and a smooth, relaxed driving experience make it a car that's a joy to spend time in.

While the cargo compartment isn't as spacious as you might imagine for a Volvo wagon, it should still be more than adequate for the demands of typical family life day-to-day.

from £18,000

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, 42,000 miles, one owner, $34,999

There's been a problem with electrical and software malfunctions, specifically with touch screen-related issues.

Best for tight squeezes

Suzuki Swift Allgrip (2017-2023)

– While ultimately slightly less personable, it is a better purchase.

For one thing, the Japanese car has a significantly better track record for reliability, making it less likely to fail you when the cold weather sets in. For another, it's a more recent model and therefore boasts a more modern design and the latest technology, not to mention more standard features.

In reality, the Swift is one of the most fuel-efficient ways to travel in four-wheel drive, due to its fuel-sipping mild hybrid engine. It’s also a good value, with prices starting from £7,000.

from £7,000

2018 Swift SZ5 with Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology, 25,000 miles, full service history, priced at £9,995.

Problem with the air conditioning system, pretty much the only issue.

Best for tougher conditions

Subaru Outback (2015-2021)

Most of the other all-wheel drive vehicles on this list will perform adequately on slippery roads and possibly even wet grass, but they'll likely deteriorate significantly if taken much further off the beaten path.

It's not the Outback, though. Like most Subarus, it's been designed to handle rough terrain just as well as paved roads, thanks to its high ground clearance and tough plastic bodywork, so it can accomplish some unexpected feats on uneven ground.

It isn't as polished on the road as some competitors, but it still provides ample comfort, reaching a smooth, relaxed pace at highway speeds.

You've got the option of a gasoline or diesel engine, with the latter being a better choice due to the former's higher fuel consumption. Even the base SE model comes well-equipped, but the SE Premium adds even more features and is more commonly found on the used car market.

from £6,000

2017 Outback 2.0D SE Premium, 64,000 miles, full service history, $14,350

Faulty batteries, excessive engine shake during acceleration, electrical malfunctions, and inconsistent sensor readings

Best overall and our top choice

BMW 5-Series xDrive (2017-2023)

Appears to have it all, and is also more visually appealing compared to its larger counterpart.

It's a great time to buy one right now, specifically if you can afford the updated version, which boasts remarkable fuel economy thanks to its mild hybrid engines.

If you choose the Touring edition, you also get a spacious trunk and plenty of room in the back seats. Furthermore, all of the 5-Series models have demonstrated reliability, rating high in reliability studies, particularly in their gasoline-powered versions.

Admittedly, it's a pricey investment – but if you're in the market for a luxurious four-wheel-drive vehicle that delivers driving excitement, keeps costs surprisingly low, and offers ample space for your family, the 5-Series is your top choice.

from £13,000

2021 BMW 530d MHT M Sport xDrive, 33,000 miles, full service history, $38,500

Sluggish gearboxes, electrical system malfunctions, several recall notices (so ensure all have been addressed).

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Audi A6 Quattro (2018-2024)

The C8 is a direct rival to the 5-Series, which would make you think we'd highly recommend it like the BMW. Although, it's actually quite enjoyable to drive, with a very smooth and peaceful way of handling, albeit less engaging than the BMW but more comfortable. Its interior is also exceptionally well-made, featuring high-end trim and luxury materials.

Reliability Survey.

Early models were plagued by transmission issues, but engine, electrical, and touchscreen problems are becoming more frequent - especially considering this car was only launched six years ago.

While any all-wheel-drive version of the A6 is tempting, these initial concerns over reliability mean it isn't recommended for now.