By Sean Jackson
The following information is provided by Graphiq and AxleGeeks.
It’s that time of the year when winter weather can make driving a challenge; this is why having a capable vehicle to handle snowy road surfaces is essential. AxleGeeks examined 2016 new vehicles to identify the ones with maximum control on wintry drives while also being friendly on your budget.
These 15 cars all cost under $30,000 — the cheapest on the list costs just $18,295. The list is ranked from most to least expensive.
#15. 2016 Chrysler 200
The 2016 Chrsyler 200 S has the distinction of being the most expensive model on this list with a price of $29,760. However, for the cost, you receive peace of mind, as this sedan earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
One notable safety feature is its four-channel electronic stability control, which helps you maintain control in poor weather.
#14. 2016 Ford Fusion
Though its original price of $27,965 makes the 2016 Ford Fusion SE among the more expensive models on this list, it does come with a wealth of helpful features like AdvanceTrac with electronic stability control.
This feature uses two gyroscopic sensors to calculate roll rate, and can make adjustments to engine power and braking to reduce the chance of wheel slip from occurring.
#13. 2016 MINI Cooper Countryman
The Countryman model has the distinction of earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick Award for five consecutive years. A big reason for this is its ALL4 all-wheel-drive that helps you maintain control by monitoring the road surface and making adjustments — like sending power to the wheels with the most traction — to give you unrivaled control.
#12. 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
While on the more expensive range of the spectrum, this model has 4MOTION all-wheel-drive. This system reads road conditions and sends engine power to all four wheels accordingly. This provides exceptional traction on wet, icy and snowy roads, giving you confidence no matter how challenging the weather becomes.
#11. 2016 Dodge Journey
With a starting price of $26,395, the 2016 Dodge Journey SE offers plenty of safety equipment for the price. Electronic stability control is included, which can reduce engine throttle and apply the brakes when needed.
#10. 2016 Buick Encore
The Encore earned an overall five-star vehicle safety score from the NHTSA. Moreover, its starting price of $25,565 is perfect if you are looking for a safe vehicle with a luxury touch.
#9. 2016 Subaru Outback
This model from Subaru has a budget-friendly price of $24,995 and comes with symmetrical all-wheel-drive. In the event of slick road conditions, this feature sends power to the wheels to give you better handling.
#8. 2016 Nissan Rogue
The 2016 Nissan Rogue S comes with intuitive all-wheel drive to give you excellent handling no matter the road conditions. Further, with a starting price of $24,590, it is $1,505 less expensive than the average cost of other models in its class.
#7. 2016 Hyundai Tucson
With an original MSRP of $24,100 and a wealth of safety features, including electronic stability control, the 2016 Hyundai Tucson SE is well-equipped to handle weather demands affordably.
#6. 2016 Kia Sportage LX
Kia loaded the new Sportage LX with excellent safety features such as vehicle stability management and the traction control system, both of which can help you maintain control during wintry drives.
Add in an affordable starting price of $23,650, and this is a great buy to tackle your snowy drives.
#5. 2016 Chevrolet Trax
With a starting price of $21,800, the 2016 Chevy Trax LS is $4,295 less expensive than the average cost of its competitors. It also has agile handling with an available AWD system to maximize control on slick road surfaces.
#4. 2016 Mazda CX-3
This Mazda crossover comes with the i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive system. This system works by monitoring road conditions, then transfers power to prevent wheel slip. The car’s starting price of $21,210 is perfect for the budget-savvy buyer.
#3. 2016 Honda HR-V LX
Honda equipped the HR-V LX with vehicle stability assist, which will adjust engine and brake pressure if you under or oversteer, thus giving you better control.
Along with proactive safety features like this, it begins at the affordable price of $21,165, making it a smart buy for its safety offerings and its dependability.
#2. 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer
The Lancer ES from Mitsubishi touts affordability with a starting price of $19,995 and impressive handling in varied climates with its all-wheel-control.
#1. 2016 Subaru Impreza
This sedan features symmetrical all-wheel drive, which will read road surfaces and, when slick, send power to the wheels with the best traction. Along with excellent handling, its MSRP of $18,295 makes it an affordable addition to your garage.
Comparison of Snow-Friendly Cars Under $30k
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