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Cold Weather Champions: Top 8 Used Cars for Winter Driving

Find These Used Cars for Sale in Kansas City at Two Auto Bank Locations Right Now

When it comes to winter driving, having the right vehicle can make all the difference. The snow and ice can create treacherous conditions on Kansas City roads, and having a car that can handle those elements with ease is crucial for your safety. While new cars may boast all the latest winter driving features, not everyone can afford to shell out big bucks for one. Luckily, there are plenty of used cars for sale in Kansas City that are well-equipped for handling winter driving.

Finding the best used car for winter is not as difficult as it may seem. Many used car dealerships have a variety for sale that are specifically designed to excel in winter weather. Winter driving safety should be a top priority for every driver, and choosing the right vehicle is the first step in ensuring your safety on the road. From all-wheel drive systems to advanced safety features like traction control and stability control, there are many factors to consider when searching for the perfect ride for you.

In this blog post, we will explore the top eight used cars for winter driving, all of which you can find at Auto Bank. So, buckle up and get ready to discover your top choices.

Drivetrain and Safety Features, Explained

When it comes to winter driving, having the right drivetrain and safety features is essential for your safety on the road. Luckily, there are plenty of used cars for sale in Kansas City equipped with these.

First, pay attention to the drivetrain. All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) systems are highly recommended for superior traction on slippery roads. These systems distribute power to all four wheels, providing better grip and control.

Vehicles with electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control systems (TCS) are worth considering. ESC helps maintain stability and prevent skidding, while TCS helps prevent wheel slippage on icy surfaces.

In terms of safety features, look for vehicles equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) to enhance braking performance in winter conditions. Advanced safety features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning can also provide an added layer of protection.

Now that you understand these components of vehicles, let’s take a look at our favorites for winter driving safety.

car driving in the winter snow

Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is known for its dependability and reliability, and it certainly lives up to its reputation when it comes to handling snowy streets. This midsize sedan offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a great option for winter driving.

One of the key features that makes this Toyota a top choice for snowy streets is its front-wheel drive system. While it may not have the added traction of an all-wheel drive system, the Camry's front-wheel drive is still capable of providing excellent control and stability on slippery roads. Plus, it offers better fuel efficiency compared to all-wheel drive models.

In addition to its drivetrain, the Camry is equipped with advanced safety features that are crucial for winter driving. It comes standard with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control, which help keep the car stable and prevent skidding on icy or snowy surfaces. Newer Camry models also offer optional features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning, providing an extra layer of protection on wintry roads.

Subaru Outback

If you're an adventurous soul who loves to embrace the winter wonderland, the Subaru Outback - or any Subaru for that matter- is the perfect companion for your adventures. With its off-road capabilities, this rugged crossover is built to handle even the harshest winter conditions.

Newer Outback vehicles come equipped with symmetrical all-wheel drive, making it a force to be reckoned with on slippery and icy roads. This system provides power to all four wheels simultaneously, ensuring maximum traction and stability.

But the Outback doesn't stop at its drivetrain. It's also packed with advanced safety features that are essential for winter driving. From its standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) to electronic stability control (ESC), the Outback is designed to keep you safe on wintry roads. It also offers optional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, providing an extra layer of confidence when maneuvering through snowy conditions. You can find used models with these features and more, for sale locally.

Not only does the Subaru Outback excel in terms of performance and safety, but it also offers ample cargo space for all your winter gear, including your holiday gifts or an extra-large emergency roadside kit.

Honda CR-V

When it comes to finding the perfect balance between fuel efficiency and winter resilience, the Honda CR-V is a standout choice. This compact SUV offers a reliable and efficient drive while still being equipped to handle the harsh winter conditions.

The CR-V drivetrain features a front-wheel drive system or all-wheel drive system, so you can choose which you prefer. The front-wheel drive system usually offers improved fuel efficiency than all-wheel drive, but many people consider it a reasonable trade-off for enhanced winter driving safety.

In terms of safety features, the Honda CR-V does not disappoint. It comes equipped with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control, ensuring stability and preventing skidding on slippery surfaces. Additionally, optional safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision warning provide an extra layer of protection on Kansas City’s roads.

Ford Escape

When it comes to winter driving, comfort is just as important as performance. And that's exactly what the Ford Escape brings to the table. This compact SUV combines the best of both worlds, offering a comfortable and spacious interior along with the cold weather performance you need to tackle winter roads with ease.

The Escape comes equipped with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the model and year. While all-wheel drive is the preferred choice for winter driving, the front-wheel drive option still provides excellent control and stability on slippery roads. The Escape's responsive handling and smooth ride quality make it a pleasure to drive, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

In terms of safety features, this Ford model is well-equipped to keep you safe in winter weather. It comes standard with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control, all of which contribute to enhanced grip and stability on snowy or icy surfaces. Optional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert add an extra layer of confidence.

But it's not just about performance and safety – the Ford Escape also prioritizes comfort. With its spacious and well-designed interior, you and your passengers will have plenty of room to stretch out and relax, even in the back seat. The comfortable seats, smooth ride, and advanced infotainment system make every winter drive a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Chevrolet Equinox

Chevrolet Equinox is a top contender for winter driving with its enhanced traction and stability control. This compact SUV is designed to handle the icy and snowy conditions with ease, making it a reliable choice for winter driving.

The Equinox comes equipped with an all-wheel drive system that provides enhanced traction on slippery roads. This system automatically engages when it detects a loss of traction, distributing power to the wheels that need it most. This means you can maintain control and stability even on icy or slushy surfaces.

In addition to its all-wheel drive system, the Equinox is equipped with advanced safety features to keep you safe on wintry roads. It comes standard with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control, all of which work together to enhance grip and prevent skidding. The Equinox also offers optional features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning, providing an extra layer of protection in hazardous winter conditions.

But it's not just about performance and safety – this Chevrolet SUV also offers a comfortable and spacious interior. With its roomy seating and advanced infotainment system, you and your passengers can enjoy a cozy and connected ride even on the coldest days.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

When it comes to tackling the frosty winter roads, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a true powerhouse. This iconic SUV combines rugged off-road capabilities with impressive 4x4 power, making it an excellent choice for winter driving.

This highly sought-after Jeep is equipped with a highly capable 4x4 system that allows you to conquer even the harshest winter conditions. When you're facing snow-covered streets, the 4x4 drivetrain ensures maximum traction and control, keeping you steady and confident on the road.

In addition to its formidable drivetrain, the Grand Cherokee is packed with advanced safety features that are essential for winter driving. It comes equipped with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control, all working together to enhance grip and prevent skidding on slippery surfaces. Optional features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning add an extra layer of protection.

Inside, find premium finishes and comfortable seating for you and your passengers as you navigate winter roads.

Hyundai Santa Fe

When faced with winter road conditions, safety should be your top priority. And that's where the Hyundai Santa Fe shines. This reliable SUV offers uncompromised safety, even in the most treacherous ice and snow conditions.

The Hyundai Santa Fe comes equipped with an array of advanced safety features that are specifically designed to keep you and your passengers safe on wintry roads. It offers anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control as standard features, ensuring that you have maximum control and stability when driving on slippery surfaces. The Santa Fe also offers optional features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning, providing an extra layer of protection and alerting you to potential dangers.

Depending on model year, a used Hyundai like this may have either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. Regardless, either drivetrain provides stable handling on winter roads - a complement to its passenger comfort and high-tech interior.

Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV that not only offers impressive performance, but also provides a touch of elegance on icy roads. Equipped with an all-wheel drive system or front-wheel drive, the Nissan Rogue ensures maximum traction and control on snowy or slippery surfaces, usually along with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Like the other models on this list, this Nissan SUV usually comes with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control as standard. These features can help prevent skids or help you safely pull out of them without overcorrection or loss of control.

Inside, the SUV offers seating for five, plus a cargo area behind the rear seat and numerous door pockets to stash all the extras you need to bring along this winter.

Go Rogue at Auto Bank this winter.

Visit One of Two Convenient Auto Bank Locations to Prepare for Winter Driving

Like what you read about these excellent choices? Apply for in-house financing with no credit check and take a test drive at one of two Auto Bank locations in the metro.

Find us at:

  • 6901 E. Front Street, just off I-435 in the Northeast Industrial District (816) 281-7210
  • 2000 E. Truman Road, just northwest of the historic 18th and Vine neighborhood (816) 793-6360