Really glad you included Honda's VTM4 - Passport, Pilot and Ridgeline. I would argue you can include the Acura SH-AWD, as it's very similar. My first generation RDX is fantastic in the snow, and I don't do snow tires. Secondly, I don't agree that every Honda needs VTM4. The HRV and CRV are more focused on gas mileage, and every so often, it's nice to have AWD to get you unstuck or a little push, but it's not meant to be a true off roader, or a performance machine. I do wish Honda would consider doing a CRV with VTM4 similar to how the Rav4 has different AWD systems for trims, but Honda I think is to small to do that kind of thing.
@@dhrtiwalter8670 Well, yes, at the end of the day, tires matter more than an AWD system. However, where I live it's not enough snow to justify having snow tires for a few storms that may or may not happen. The Outback is great but I think Honda's automatic and AWD system would beat it out if on similar tires.
Living in interior Alaska with temps ranging form 90F in the summer to -60F in the winter my experiences with tires you can drive year round come down to 2 great choices and one modified choice for light truck tires. For Winter Nokian Hakkapeliitta are the best winter tires I have ever used, period. Second I would recommend BFG K02’s as best A/T’s for winter driving. Now I also have a modified choice which works surprisingly well because of its softer compound and tread design, and that is BFG KM3’s that have the center section siped. The latter is what I have been using on my 2 door Rubicon as 37x12.5r17’s with the center 8” siped (never sipe to the edge on these as the edges wear really bad if you do). Mind you the siped KM3’s stick very well at lower PSI (run mine at 25psi in winter) in colder temps, but the do wear faster. But the deeper lugs do help in deeper snow as they self clean. I have driven my Jeep up a 25 degree slope in 2’ of snow, but I have to replace these tires every 35,000 miles because of the softer rubber.
That's also because people in Quebec drive like total nut jobs. I doubt that changes too much when the snow arrives. Either way, I fully endorse winter tires. I get insurance discounts for having them here in Alberta. They aren't government mandated here except for on certain mountain roads. We instead are financially incentivized to be smart and responsible.
Downtown major cities in Quebec is where that reputation comes from. I've driven on major hi ways through Quebec many times and found the same amount of crazy drivers as the Toronto area. Police enforcement on the hiways in Quebec is real. In Ontario you'll get away with 130, not in Quebec.
@@IKnewMickey the SQ has a lot stricter quotas than the OPP and that affects how they ticket... Besides, Quebec is such a broke province (hence why they get the biggest payout in equalization payments than all the others) that it is pushed a lot to give out tickets
Subaru should be on the list for sure, too bad you are angry with them and them with you, a true 10 best snow car review would include them. I have a 4XE Wrangler, 2 JK wranglers before that, f150 many escapes and still today IMO i would put Subaru very high for winter driving, slip test and off road test are all great but the higher speed stability that comes from symmetrical AWD (drive shafts being same length) provides a natural distributions of power without computers and BLD being needed for hwy winter driving as well. And Crosstrek, Outback and Forester all have better ground clearance than many on your list.
Subaru markets the term "symmetrical AWD" because the half shafts are the same length. The drive shafts are different lengths. The AWD system is mediocre and doesn't deserve to be in a top ten list.
Lack of I-vtm4 is the only reason I wouldn’t jump into a crv. With a passport and blizzard, it’s truly amazing on winter roads even smooth ice. And it’s even a great feel on dry road driving.
I live in SEKY where we don’t get a lot of snow. The most we’ve ever gotten since I’ve been driving was 9 inches. I’ve had either a AWD or 4WD since I started driving. I’ve used All Season tires the whole time. I’ve only gotten stuck 1 time in 8.5 to 9 inches of snow. My 2014 Jeep Compass got stuck & wouldn’t go up my hill it would slide backwards. Needless to say I didn’t go to work that day. I drive slow and steady in the snow. I’ve gotten passed by a truck on the parkway then passed him in the ditch a few miles down the road wrecked. I learned that day that slow and steady is the best when driving in the snow and when going down steep hills to slowly pump your brakes and don’t ride them. But in the 70’s my dad drove around in a 67 mustang with chains so there’s that as well. I’ve had in order 97;GMC Jimmy, 2005 Chevy Equinox-good in snow crappy gaskets-, 2014 Jeep Compass, 2019 4 runner, and finally 2022 Ford Explorer. Best in the snow for me… the Jeep has been the best, closely followed by the Jimmy. We shall see how the Ford does last year it done good. It’s also the vehicle I’ve had that has a snow mode. I always try to have really good brand tires …Kelly tires where crap btw. Most people around here do not know how to drive in the snow as we don’t get a lot but when we do people forget how to drive as they run after bread and milk 😂.
Surprise, I didn't see the Jeep Cherokee trailhawk. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is great. However, if you need something more affordable and reliable, the Cherokee trailhawk will do the job it has a snow mode, low rang, and a rear locker, and almost 9 inches of ground clearance and the firestone destination AT tires are great all year round. I also have a 2019 Jeep cherokee trailhawk for 3 years in Canadian winters and a Jeep cherokee sport 4x4 for 4 years before, and they both were seriously amazing in snowy winter. However, stay away from the new Jeep Compass had a 2020 for 1 winter, and it was horrible.
The thing about winter conditions is if you can go doesn't mean you can stop more people get themselves in trouble going to fast for conditions than they do from not being able to go somewhere.I get around fine in old Manual S10 truck with out traction control or winter tire's just good all terrain truck tires.I drive Snowplows for a living in the winter. sometimes the best thing you can do is stay home till they clear the road.
What you should really do, is an episode of a daily, only one car episode. A 2nd episode, would be a used car that you only use when the weather is bad.
You guys should do a video rating what vehicles traction aids are actually useful or just marketing. I think that would be pretty interesting. I think some vehicles that you wouldnt think are marketing, actually are. Like Jeep and Ford.
I left our Blazzaks on all summer this year in MN and it likely took a few years of life off them but they did not “melt” off. Clearly Roman’s were quite worn.
You ether didn’t put a lot of miles on them or you have complete killed the life out of them. I guarantee it. If you drive winter tires in the summer, you will need to replace them.
I drive a Bronco Sport in Alaska and unfortunately it will get beached if the plows get behind on the side streets, as it only has 8-9" of ground clearance depending on trim. Of course I see wranglers in ditches here sometimes too.
I have the bronco sport Badlands I that’s the one they are referring to in the picture thought I think you have special circumstances being your in Alaska, I’m surprised you guys do not just drive snowmobiles when it’s that snowy I herd of them being required in Montana and in the Dakotas by locals to get around in the winter, in your case if you want to stay warm in your car just get trends for the back and skis on the front making it essentially a snow mobile or just do 4 treads making it a tank like but with 4 belts instead of a tanks too, but I think you can buy vehicles like that anyway but I think it’s more like if your in like Chicago, Denver, Boston, upstate New York or places that have roads that get plowed but the local municipalities may not be able to keep up with plowing not in cases of 1 foot of snow or more, I hope your Bronco Sport good otherwise I love mine and have no regrets, but I did have some bad news with my oil consumption on my 2.0 in-line turbocharged 4, I probably need a new engine because it going through oil ever 2k miles instead of the 7500 it is rated to go on a oil change but they said I’m just unlucky because their was no reports of similar issues on my engine which is good for most owners of the Bronco Sport Badlands
I’m in Québec and it’s true that from dec 1st snow tires are mandatory. Goood thing! I have Ko2 on my truck and when i’ts getting below -20 c the rubber feels like concrete and dont grip to much on ice. I put my Toyo gsi-5 on and i’ts a game changer on ice. Here in the north east you need a good ice tire Fyi: in B-C you need chains😅
In BC and Alberta... mountain roads require either tri peak rated tires or have tire chains with you in case you need them. Winters are not mandated on regular roads. They are heavily recommended, and here in Alberta, we're financially incentivized to have tri peak rated tires. I actually save $30 a month year round just for owning and using them in the winter.
If there's a blizzard warning I stay home. However Around the Great Lakes I have zero problems with my fwd Camry and Goodyear Ultra Grip winter tires. Edit: my channel pic is my custom painted (with a brush and rust paint) winter rims 😂😂😂
Most important factors: 1: Driver attitude. If you're not thinking you will get stuck. I've helped the driver of a 4WD truck get unstuck, then drove away in my '69 MGB no problem. 2: Clearance in accordance with snow depth. My Miata with snow tires was fine until snow got 2" above its ground clearance. 3: Tires. Dedicated Summer tires will get stuck in 1/2". Very Distant 4: 4WD, AWD, FWD, RWD. All have their strengths/weaknesses. See #1: Driver attitude. Equipment doesn't help if you're not paying attention.
I have never driven in the snow but several years ago is when my camping/pseudo-prepper mindset kicked in. And I got my C1500 some snow rated tires just in case. And I’m glad Ford gave the Maverick the snow rated Falkens. Just in case I get to camp in the snow.
You are correct ground clearance and tires are the major factors, maybe more than the actual vehicle itself. I'm interested in great fwd snow vehicles, how do they handle. Not really worried of getting stuck as that is more knowing your vehicle, tires and the conditions, but the vehicle handling well in the snow so you don't have to slow down as much and be confident. Have something truly fuel efficient on this list.
This list is about the best snow cars not the most efficient snow cars... That's just what I read in the title of the video. I'm sure most people aren't really worried about fuel economy when you're trying to be safe driving thru a snowstorm
It would be awesome to test 4WD vs AWD with a similar weight vehicle with exact same tire. Would like to see if results are same like a ONiel Rally School showing 4WD have better stopping power. Quote TeamOnielRally "When you're in 4WD, the front and rear axles are mechanically linked by the driveshafts and transfer case. The front and rear will turn at the same speed, regardless of whether you're on the gas, coasting, or on the brakes. Your brakes send 70% pressure to the front and 30% to the rear, but in 4WD the front and rear axles are connected so you end up with 50-50 brakes front and rear. This is much better on snow and ice. "
That would be a great test! Especially stopping 4WD vs AWD. My guess is the open center diff (AWD) would be slower to stop on snow and ice, but most people don't realize that or understand why.
@@coltonwood9846 my guess on AWDs something like Subaru Ascent with viscous coupling to be closest to 4wd and something like Toyota Highlander Limited with TV-AWD with disconnectable drive shaft electromagnetic awd to be closer to 2wd if you take vehicles around 4000lbs range. Again tires have to be exact same including psi for accurate or closer to accurate test imo.
I have never seen snow living here in Los Angeles, but hopefully, in the future, I can take my new 2023 Jeep MP out to the mountains and see some snow this year.
I have a Subaru Crosstrek sport with the 2.5 liter, this thing surprises me on trails, in the snow, I go to Colorado a couple times a year…I have a Bronco with Sasquatch on order, I hate that they put mud tires on the Sasquatch package and not AT
I don’t understand why there aren’t more provinces that legislate winter tires. Years ago, I had a Subaru (automatic) with all-seasons. First snow of the season, with 2cms of snow on the road, I was trying to stop and ended up in the middle of the intersection facing the other way. It was enough to convert me to winter tires. I’ve negotiated them into the price (on rims) with every vehicle I’ve bought since. Michelin X-Ice are great on heavy vehicles… but my favourites were Continentals (the ones with ice traction) on my front wheel drive vehicles. I could easily drive up to the ski hills in my Jetta in those, when others would be stuck.
I agree, they should legislate winter tires and then they should stop salting the roads. Winter tires are a lot cheaper than a new car every 5-10 years because of rust.
IMHO - the 4Runner Limited with full-time 4WD belongs on this list. Family car, not a dedicated off-roader. Often purchased for safety in Snow, Ice, Rain - same as Subaru. Ultra reliable with no computers or viscous coupling to fail and/or screw things up. Can also be used as a light/moderate off-roader for family adventures - 9.6inches of ground clearance!!
I agree. The 4runner (can't go wrong with any year) with 4WD is a great choice. Just watch out for rust, it was a major issue with every Toyota truck in the 2000's.
You are using BEST loosely to mean the ones that TFL has deals with Toyota, Ford, ... Tough to say best in snow and leave out Subaru, Audi and Honda/Acura to name a few of top choices in Pacific Northwest where our snow tends to be wet and ice.
I'm surprised that when tfl is talking about year-round tires that are snow rated, I never hear them mention the Yokohama geolandar all terrains. They're great
I agree with the Bronco Sport. It is essentially an updated Escape. We had a Escape Hybrid for 14 years. With Pirelli Scorpion A/T tires it went very well in snow and light off-road. Ours was only 2wd. The new Bronco Sport with the GOAT mode must be amazing! We bought a 2023 Rav4 Hybrid to replace it. Haven't had it in snow yet. But, with electric awd it should be good even with factory road tires...
Any normal car is fine with snow tires. Like my Mustang GT is fine. I put 235x18/50 profile winter tires are it is great. Mechanical LSD helps of course.
I live in the Philosophy of having 2/3 cars. One for daily driving, one for sports car, one for bad weather. All used cars. 3 cheap cars instead of 1 expensive car. Yes, women do not like that.
My experience has been the Subaru Impreza is amazing in snow but the outback will fishtail. The underlying issue with Subaru head gasket failure is people not changing their coolant.
As someone who has used them. They definitely are great in the snow. Plowed through snow in my 2002 fx4 f-150 with those tires. So yeah they are good snow tires.
I guess im the only one that thinks AWD and 4WD are the same thing but 4x4 is separate from AWD. Because technically a vehicle with 4 wheels that are driven is a 4WD. And 4x4 tells me that it can be changed from 2H to 4H and in most cases 4L save for a few vehicles that don’t have 4L.
The cost argument regarding two sets of tires is just silly. People buy/lease/rent expensive vehicles but can't afford one extra set for ~1000-1500 bucks?
4Runners and Wranglers are "normal vehicles" in the snowbelt. Grand Cherokee, Tesla, Mercedes.. but no Highlander? Weird selection of vehicles. The low to the ground front body work is a bigger problem than 4wd/awd systems now. You'll tear the chin off and maybe even crack the driving lights on some vehicles. Having traction for poorly or unplowed roads means nothing if the chin sits too low to get through it without causing damage. AWD is a pointless feature for winter for many vehicles because of that.
super rare snow here - question - since i have a truck cap, i'm assuming that adds more weight then sand bags for snow driving (if it ever snows here). good or bad assumption?
Why not just take a poll of skiers to see what they drive. Or go to a ski area and look at the parking lot. I guess Subarus are not good snow cars because they won't give you one. Gee, maybe you just buy one. Even a used one.
No Suburus? That is a joke, you guys buy trucks and cars all the time. Do not be so cheap, go out and buy one if you can not get one for free. Here in north east Minnesota, winter comes in late October and runs into the last week of April. We can get well over 100 inches of snow and, Lake Superior makes for some tricky road conditions along the lake. Add to that, we have lots of hills, not like Colorado, but, a lot more than Boulder or Denver which are not in the mountains. I used to haul my horses from Minnesota to Denver and Grand Junction, and, used to go the big Denver Fat Stock Show in Janurary. If you were driving here, you would see tons of Suburus, Duluth has a dealer, and, it also has very steep; hills all over town. I have friends who have driven Suburuss for years, and, love them.
@@dhrtiwalter8670 Mostly Outbacks and Forresters, lots of them, they seem to go well in the deep snow we have up; here. I drive a F150 four wheel drive, and, lots of my neighbors have Outbacks.
Stopped watching after a minute because “Subaru doesn’t lend us cars, so we clearly have no experience with them and this list will not include Subaru despite them clearly being better than any other company in the snow.” Didn’t you guys buy one and don’t you do tests on them all the time? Wasn’t the car vs snow episode with an outback? TFL: totally f-ing lame. At least TFL bikes doesn’t hate Kawasaki… get over it guys.
Idk how many times I need to repeat that, but please don't repeat that "fifty-fifty" locked differential explanation. Your audience is not dumb, it's ok to at least mention that you simplify the things, and the actual torque distribution is complex and counter-intuitive. Or at least say "rotation" instead of "torque". 50:50 is exactly how OPEN differential splits the torque. Even Tommy, a kid who's like 1 year younger tnan me, have learned that.
The Passport is amazing on snow & ice! Here in South Dakota we love it
I'm in Minnesota and we NEED our winter cars!! Loved the video, thanks!
Really glad you included Honda's VTM4 - Passport, Pilot and Ridgeline. I would argue you can include the Acura SH-AWD, as it's very similar. My first generation RDX is fantastic in the snow, and I don't do snow tires. Secondly, I don't agree that every Honda needs VTM4. The HRV and CRV are more focused on gas mileage, and every so often, it's nice to have AWD to get you unstuck or a little push, but it's not meant to be a true off roader, or a performance machine. I do wish Honda would consider doing a CRV with VTM4 similar to how the Rav4 has different AWD systems for trims, but Honda I think is to small to do that kind of thing.
@@dhrtiwalter8670 Well, yes, at the end of the day, tires matter more than an AWD system. However, where I live it's not enough snow to justify having snow tires for a few storms that may or may not happen. The Outback is great but I think Honda's automatic and AWD system would beat it out if on similar tires.
Living in interior Alaska with temps ranging form 90F in the summer to -60F in the winter my experiences with tires you can drive year round come down to 2 great choices and one modified choice for light truck tires. For Winter Nokian Hakkapeliitta are the best winter tires I have ever used, period. Second I would recommend BFG K02’s as best A/T’s for winter driving. Now I also have a modified choice which works surprisingly well because of its softer compound and tread design, and that is BFG KM3’s that have the center section siped. The latter is what I have been using on my 2 door Rubicon as 37x12.5r17’s with the center 8” siped (never sipe to the edge on these as the edges wear really bad if you do). Mind you the siped KM3’s stick very well at lower PSI (run mine at 25psi in winter) in colder temps, but the do wear faster. But the deeper lugs do help in deeper snow as they self clean. I have driven my Jeep up a 25 degree slope in 2’ of snow, but I have to replace these tires every 35,000 miles because of the softer rubber.
Agree with the Hakkas The others I don't know
You are correct! I live in Quebec and it is illegal to drive a vehicle without snow tires in the winter and grounds for getting towed
That's also because people in Quebec drive like total nut jobs. I doubt that changes too much when the snow arrives. Either way, I fully endorse winter tires. I get insurance discounts for having them here in Alberta. They aren't government mandated here except for on certain mountain roads. We instead are financially incentivized to be smart and responsible.
Downtown major cities in Quebec is where that reputation comes from. I've driven on major hi ways through Quebec many times and found the same amount of crazy drivers as the Toronto area. Police enforcement on the hiways in Quebec is real. In Ontario you'll get away with 130, not in Quebec.
@@IKnewMickey the SQ has a lot stricter quotas than the OPP and that affects how they ticket... Besides, Quebec is such a broke province (hence why they get the biggest payout in equalization payments than all the others) that it is pushed a lot to give out tickets
degens from upcountry 🇨🇦
It’s also illegal to have pepper spray, which is insane.
Subaru should be on the list for sure, too bad you are angry with them and them with you, a true 10 best snow car review would include them. I have a 4XE Wrangler, 2 JK wranglers before that, f150 many escapes and still today IMO i would put Subaru very high for winter driving, slip test and off road test are all great but the higher speed stability that comes from symmetrical AWD (drive shafts being same length) provides a natural distributions of power without computers and BLD being needed for hwy winter driving as well. And Crosstrek, Outback and Forester all have better ground clearance than many on your list.
I had to buy another Subaru outback simply because it saved my life a number of times in difficult snow driving, especially when I was tired
My Subaru is a family member at this point. Driving my kids in snow storms is no joke and our Subie gets us there every time.
Subaru markets the term "symmetrical AWD" because the half shafts are the same length. The drive shafts are different lengths. The AWD system is mediocre and doesn't deserve to be in a top ten list.
Lack of I-vtm4 is the only reason I wouldn’t jump into a crv. With a passport and blizzard, it’s truly amazing on winter roads even smooth ice. And it’s even a great feel on dry road driving.
March blizzard of 2003. My 2002 2dr Blazer with 4WD and factory auto rear locking dif did great.
I live in SEKY where we don’t get a lot of snow. The most we’ve ever gotten since I’ve been driving was 9 inches. I’ve had either a AWD or 4WD since I started driving. I’ve used All Season tires the whole time. I’ve only gotten stuck 1 time in 8.5 to 9 inches of snow. My 2014 Jeep Compass got stuck & wouldn’t go up my hill it would slide backwards. Needless to say I didn’t go to work that day.
I drive slow and steady in the snow. I’ve gotten passed by a truck on the parkway then passed him in the ditch a few miles down the road wrecked. I learned that day that slow and steady is the best when driving in the snow and when going down steep hills to slowly pump your brakes and don’t ride them.
But in the 70’s my dad drove around in a 67 mustang with chains so there’s that as well. I’ve had in order 97;GMC Jimmy, 2005 Chevy Equinox-good in snow crappy gaskets-, 2014 Jeep Compass, 2019 4 runner, and finally 2022 Ford Explorer. Best in the snow for me… the Jeep has been the best, closely followed by the Jimmy. We shall see how the Ford does last year it done good. It’s also the vehicle I’ve had that has a snow mode. I always try to have really good brand tires …Kelly tires where crap btw.
Most people around here do not know how to drive in the snow as we don’t get a lot but when we do people forget how to drive as they run after bread and milk 😂.
Thanks for adding the car pictures to the background!
Nice video boys! Love my GC 4xe! Need to add some 3PMSF rated tires for this winter.
The best winter car is one that has a smart owner and that does not rust out in 5 years .
My snow rig is a 2022 4runner on Blizzak's.
Surprise, I didn't see the Jeep Cherokee trailhawk. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is great. However, if you need something more affordable and reliable, the Cherokee trailhawk will do the job it has a snow mode, low rang, and a rear locker, and almost 9 inches of ground clearance and the firestone destination AT tires are great all year round. I also have a 2019 Jeep cherokee trailhawk for 3 years in Canadian winters and a Jeep cherokee sport 4x4 for 4 years before, and they both were seriously amazing in snowy winter. However, stay away from the new Jeep Compass had a 2020 for 1 winter, and it was horrible.
The thing about winter conditions is if you can go doesn't mean you can stop more people get themselves in trouble going to fast for conditions than they do from not being able to go somewhere.I get around fine in old Manual S10 truck with out traction control or winter tire's just good all terrain truck tires.I drive Snowplows for a living in the winter. sometimes the best thing you can do is stay home till they clear the road.
What you should really do, is an episode of a daily, only one car episode. A 2nd episode, would be a used car that you only use when the weather is bad.
You guys should do a video rating what vehicles traction aids are actually useful or just marketing. I think that would be pretty interesting. I think some vehicles that you wouldnt think are marketing, actually are. Like Jeep and Ford.
Great job !!! Thank you guys.
You are correct Roman about Quebec Canada about the snow tires. 😁
I left our Blazzaks on all summer this year in MN and it likely took a few years of life off them but they did not “melt” off. Clearly Roman’s were quite worn.
You ether didn’t put a lot of miles on them or you have complete killed the life out of them. I guarantee it. If you drive winter tires in the summer, you will need to replace them.
I drive a Bronco Sport in Alaska and unfortunately it will get beached if the plows get behind on the side streets, as it only has 8-9" of ground clearance depending on trim. Of course I see wranglers in ditches here sometimes too.
I have the bronco sport Badlands I that’s the one they are referring to in the picture thought I think you have special circumstances being your in Alaska, I’m surprised you guys do not just drive snowmobiles when it’s that snowy I herd of them being required in Montana and in the Dakotas by locals to get around in the winter, in your case if you want to stay warm in your car just get trends for the back and skis on the front making it essentially a snow mobile or just do 4 treads making it a tank like but with 4 belts instead of a tanks too, but I think you can buy vehicles like that anyway but I think it’s more like if your in like Chicago, Denver, Boston, upstate New York or places that have roads that get plowed but the local municipalities may not be able to keep up with plowing not in cases of 1 foot of snow or more, I hope your Bronco Sport good otherwise I love mine and have no regrets, but I did have some bad news with my oil consumption on my 2.0 in-line turbocharged 4, I probably need a new engine because it going through oil ever 2k miles instead of the 7500 it is rated to go on a oil change but they said I’m just unlucky because their was no reports of similar issues on my engine which is good for most owners of the Bronco Sport Badlands
subaru is the best for snow
In Ontario, Canada, I get a discount on my insurance for having winter ties. Buying Michelin X-ice Snow SUV for my Maverick, using X Ice on 2012 Focus
I’m in Québec and it’s true that from dec 1st snow tires are mandatory. Goood thing! I have Ko2 on my truck and when i’ts getting below -20 c the rubber feels like concrete and dont grip to much on ice. I put my Toyo gsi-5 on and i’ts a game changer on ice. Here in the north east you need a good ice tire
Fyi: in B-C you need chains😅
In BC and Alberta... mountain roads require either tri peak rated tires or have tire chains with you in case you need them. Winters are not mandated on regular roads. They are heavily recommended, and here in Alberta, we're financially incentivized to have tri peak rated tires. I actually save $30 a month year round just for owning and using them in the winter.
If there's a blizzard warning I stay home. However Around the Great Lakes I have zero problems with my fwd Camry and Goodyear Ultra Grip winter tires. Edit: my channel pic is my custom painted (with a brush and rust paint) winter rims 😂😂😂
Most important factors:
1: Driver attitude. If you're not thinking you will get stuck. I've helped the driver of a 4WD truck get unstuck, then drove away in my '69 MGB no problem.
2: Clearance in accordance with snow depth. My Miata with snow tires was fine until snow got 2" above its ground clearance.
3: Tires. Dedicated Summer tires will get stuck in 1/2".
Very Distant 4: 4WD, AWD, FWD, RWD. All have their strengths/weaknesses. See #1: Driver attitude. Equipment doesn't help if you're not paying attention.
I have never driven in the snow but several years ago is when my camping/pseudo-prepper mindset kicked in. And I got my C1500 some snow rated tires just in case. And I’m glad Ford gave the Maverick the snow rated Falkens. Just in case I get to camp in the snow.
the Maverick car was THE worst car i've ever driven in, hands down. Was an early '70's model on seemingly last legs. Ford is such trash, omfg!
This is some true knowledge, thanks!
I have the Falken Wildpeaks on my Land Rover LR4, and it's unstoppable in the snow. Do need snow rated tires here in northwest Wisconsin.
You are correct ground clearance and tires are the major factors, maybe more than the actual vehicle itself. I'm interested in great fwd snow vehicles, how do they handle. Not really worried of getting stuck as that is more knowing your vehicle, tires and the conditions, but the vehicle handling well in the snow so you don't have to slow down as much and be confident. Have something truly fuel efficient on this list.
This list is about the best snow cars not the most efficient snow cars... That's just what I read in the title of the video. I'm sure most people aren't really worried about fuel economy when you're trying to be safe driving thru a snowstorm
@@honda116969 but it should be best for each category of car. I don't like these lists because of how it just becomes any in a certain segment.
My 1995 civic si coupe was pushing snow like crazy! Haha 5-4….4-5 keep the speed rally style!
Liked the new Chevrolet Trax. It got great MPG, has decent ground clearance and it's FWD. Still drove great through snow and ice.
The real challenge is the best 2wd car. My 63 Pontiac tempest was fantastic in the snow. ( With studded snow tires)
Falkens on my ram ecodiesel been happy with them so far seem to do well
It would be awesome to test 4WD vs AWD with a similar weight vehicle with exact same tire. Would like to see if results are same like a ONiel Rally School showing 4WD have better stopping power. Quote TeamOnielRally "When you're in 4WD, the front and rear axles are mechanically linked by the driveshafts and transfer case. The front and rear will turn at the same speed, regardless of whether you're on the gas, coasting, or on the brakes. Your brakes send 70% pressure to the front and 30% to the rear, but in 4WD the front and rear axles are connected so you end up with 50-50 brakes front and rear. This is much better on snow and ice. "
That would be a great test! Especially stopping 4WD vs AWD. My guess is the open center diff (AWD) would be slower to stop on snow and ice, but most people don't realize that or understand why.
@@coltonwood9846 my guess on AWDs something like Subaru Ascent with viscous coupling to be closest to 4wd and something like Toyota Highlander Limited with TV-AWD with disconnectable drive shaft electromagnetic awd to be closer to 2wd if you take vehicles around 4000lbs range. Again tires have to be exact same including psi for accurate or closer to accurate test imo.
All about winter tires!!!
I have never seen snow living here in Los Angeles, but hopefully, in the future, I can take my new 2023 Jeep MP out to the mountains and see some snow this year.
I really enjoyed it thank u guys so much for this amazing content ✨🏎️
I have a Subaru Crosstrek sport with the 2.5 liter, this thing surprises me on trails, in the snow, I go to Colorado a couple times a year…I have a Bronco with Sasquatch on order, I hate that they put mud tires on the Sasquatch package and not AT
Yes
In the province of Quebec
You have to have snow tires on by December 1st
I don’t understand why there aren’t more provinces that legislate winter tires. Years ago, I had a Subaru (automatic) with all-seasons. First snow of the season, with 2cms of snow on the road, I was trying to stop and ended up in the middle of the intersection facing the other way. It was enough to convert me to winter tires. I’ve negotiated them into the price (on rims) with every vehicle I’ve bought since.
Michelin X-Ice are great on heavy vehicles… but my favourites were Continentals (the ones with ice traction) on my front wheel drive vehicles. I could easily drive up to the ski hills in my Jetta in those, when others would be stuck.
I agree, they should legislate winter tires and then they should stop salting the roads. Winter tires are a lot cheaper than a new car every 5-10 years because of rust.
I’ve had Falkens for a couple years now and I love them. They’ve done great in the snow
good talk ,I live in eastern Canada i AM FAMILLIAR WIYH SNOW AND SLUSH VW bugs always good in snow a long time ago
IMHO - the 4Runner Limited with full-time 4WD belongs on this list. Family car, not a dedicated off-roader. Often purchased for safety in Snow, Ice, Rain - same as Subaru. Ultra reliable with no computers or viscous coupling to fail and/or screw things up. Can also be used as a light/moderate off-roader for family adventures - 9.6inches of ground clearance!!
I agree. The 4runner (can't go wrong with any year) with 4WD is a great choice. Just watch out for rust, it was a major issue with every Toyota truck in the 2000's.
@@damilolaakanniavoid 2001-2002 3rd gens. They were the first years to get ABS and VSC, and the module is prone to electrical failure
Live in Phoenix so not really looking for any car for the snow. We do have dirt trails that can be sandy.
Y'all should test Bridgestone WeatherPeak All Weather tires. I think they beat the Michelin Cross Climates.
Most important thing is a careful cautious driver.
You are using BEST loosely to mean the ones that TFL has deals with Toyota, Ford, ... Tough to say best in snow and leave out Subaru, Audi and Honda/Acura to name a few of top choices in Pacific Northwest where our snow tends to be wet and ice.
I'm surprised that when tfl is talking about year-round tires that are snow rated, I never hear them mention the Yokohama geolandar all terrains. They're great
There’s likely a reason they never mention them, the other ones the mentioned probably did better for them
I agree with the Bronco Sport. It is essentially an updated Escape. We had a Escape Hybrid for 14 years. With Pirelli Scorpion A/T tires it went very well in snow and light off-road. Ours was only 2wd. The new Bronco Sport with the GOAT mode must be amazing! We bought a 2023 Rav4 Hybrid to replace it. Haven't had it in snow yet. But, with electric awd it should be good even with factory road tires...
Any normal car is fine with snow tires. Like my Mustang GT is fine. I put 235x18/50 profile winter tires are it is great. Mechanical LSD helps of course.
What about the Falken Wildpeak AT Trails? Thoughts on their year round and snow performance?
I live in the Philosophy of having 2/3 cars. One for daily driving, one for sports car, one for bad weather. All used cars. 3 cheap cars instead of 1 expensive car. Yes, women do not like that.
Under rated but my son's Renegade Trailhawk is great in snow and was 28K new. Of course my JLU is more fun still impressed by Jeeps cheapest model.
Why don't you use in snow German snow chains?
Just because you guys haven't spent time driving Subarus, these cars decently belong on this list.
It’s Suburas fault they even said Subura does not let them drive their cars, and in my opinion Suburas are overpriced and overrated vehicle’s
My experience has been the Subaru Impreza is amazing in snow but the outback will fishtail.
The underlying issue with Subaru head gasket failure is people not changing their coolant.
😢
Only issues with Subaru is engine (head gaskets) and horrible fuel economy
Subaru is hands down the best winter vehicle made. Period. As long as you stay on a road. (Low ground clearance)
They don't make every size possible. So when you go to a smaller wheel the tire size will also change.
There is only 1 awd stick left - WRX
You recommended the BFG cross terrain (according to Nathan) - is that the correct name? I can't find that tire - is it perhaps the cross control? Or?
One of the best all around truck tire which is snow rated is the BFG all terrain ko2.
Very much disagree. KO2s are a great tire but garbage in the wet and ice, maybe they’ll do OK in Draper snow, but definitely not on icy snowy roads
Deap*
As someone who has used them. They definitely are great in the snow. Plowed through snow in my 2002 fx4 f-150 with those tires. So yeah they are good snow tires.
They get you going but don’t stop you. My Tacoma with snows on is worlds better than the ko2’s I ran
@@Ww8.3 my lifted f150 with 35in ko2 stopped just fine.
Doing audi dirty. Quartto on the Q5+ A4+ is still great
What about the RAV4 AWD?
I guess im the only one that thinks AWD and 4WD are the same thing but 4x4 is separate from AWD. Because technically a vehicle with 4 wheels that are driven is a 4WD. And 4x4 tells me that it can be changed from 2H to 4H and in most cases 4L save for a few vehicles that don’t have 4L.
The cost argument regarding two sets of tires is just silly. People buy/lease/rent expensive vehicles but can't afford one extra set for ~1000-1500 bucks?
4Runners and Wranglers are "normal vehicles" in the snowbelt. Grand Cherokee, Tesla, Mercedes.. but no Highlander? Weird selection of vehicles. The low to the ground front body work is a bigger problem than 4wd/awd systems now. You'll tear the chin off and maybe even crack the driving lights on some vehicles. Having traction for poorly or unplowed roads means nothing if the chin sits too low to get through it without causing damage. AWD is a pointless feature for winter for many vehicles because of that.
There are frozen lakes with enough ice for semitrucks. They would probably be able to hold the Hummer EV.
super rare snow here - question - since i have a truck cap, i'm assuming that adds more weight then sand bags for snow driving (if it ever snows here). good or bad assumption?
Have you had any experience with nokian outpost AT? Regards
Anything with a 100k km tread warranty is too hard for winter.
"As such...in addition...as such...in addition...as such"
god tfl talk is so bad you guys rable for over an hr to list 10 cars & go off on tangents
What about black ice?
ford maverick on Toyo 235's?
Snow tires is required in all of Canada.
you talking about all weather tires with the snowflake label.,better than all seasons but not as good as winter tires
If you ever come across a language barrier, you can use Google translate! Assuming you have a phone and internet in the moment of course.
A day without Nathan is what we call in the south, A bad day!
Snow tires on my Tacoma off-road and it goes anywhere
It should. Any truck with awd and snow tires will
Why not just take a poll of skiers to see what they drive. Or go to a ski area and look at the parking lot. I guess Subarus are not good snow cars because they won't give you one. Gee, maybe you just buy one. Even a used one.
No Audi Quatro?
No Suburus? That is a joke, you guys buy trucks and cars all the time. Do not be so cheap, go out and buy one if you can not get one for free. Here in north east Minnesota, winter comes in late October and runs into the last week of April. We can get well over 100 inches of snow and, Lake Superior makes for some tricky road conditions along the lake. Add to that, we have lots of hills, not like Colorado, but, a lot more than Boulder or Denver which are not in the mountains. I used to haul my horses from Minnesota to Denver and Grand Junction, and, used to go the big Denver Fat Stock Show in Janurary. If you were driving here, you would see tons of Suburus, Duluth has a dealer, and, it also has very steep; hills all over town. I have friends who have driven Suburuss for years, and, love them.
Subaru had a hissy fit when TFL accidentally had an issue. They reap what they sew.
@@dhrtiwalter8670 Mostly Outbacks and Forresters, lots of them, they seem to go well in the deep snow we have up; here. I drive a F150 four wheel drive, and, lots of my neighbors have Outbacks.
RIP Ken Block
Stopped watching after a minute because “Subaru doesn’t lend us cars, so we clearly have no experience with them and this list will not include Subaru despite them clearly being better than any other company in the snow.” Didn’t you guys buy one and don’t you do tests on them all the time? Wasn’t the car vs snow episode with an outback? TFL: totally f-ing lame. At least TFL bikes doesn’t hate Kawasaki… get over it guys.
Nathan really needs to drop the habit of saying “in addition” he says it so much it’s distracting
Fat tires plow snow
Idk how many times I need to repeat that, but please don't repeat that "fifty-fifty" locked differential explanation. Your audience is not dumb, it's ok to at least mention that you simplify the things, and the actual torque distribution is complex and counter-intuitive. Or at least say "rotation" instead of "torque". 50:50 is exactly how OPEN differential splits the torque. Even Tommy, a kid who's like 1 year younger tnan me, have learned that.
Omg guy's get to the point! Talking too much get to the point, boring!!