And these cars will certainly never be short on Grit. With severe weather warnings being issued on an almost daily basis, you might be considering putting your car into hibermation for the next couple of months. But winter driving needn't be an utter nightmare as many cars come with winter-tackling essentials such as anti-lock brakes, traction control and electronic stability systems.
5 OF THE BEST CARS FOR WINTER DRIVING
Other options include heated headlamp washers, remote starting and winter transmission modes on automatics that help stop wheels spinning in icy conditions.
But the best way to deal with the white stuff is to ditch front/rear wheel drive altogether and invest in an all-wheel-drive/4x4 car - you'll get better traction and a reassuringly planted feel when driving:
Suzuki SX4 4x4
Click here for a quoteThe SX4 may not be the last word in family practicality because of its relatively small boot, but this cheap and cheerful Suzuki supermini has won itself plaudits aplenty thanks to its accomplished 4x4 setup, which serves up fine traction in all conditions. While offering high ground clearance for manoeuvring through piled-up snow, the Suzuki still manages to feel like a typical family car to drive in normal conditions.
Subaru Outback 2.0D SE
Click here for a quoteBest known for its ferocious turbo-boosted boxer engines and rally-winning antics, Subaru has in recent years been focusing its sights on the mainstream and the bold new Outback range features plenty of room, practicality and a permanent all-wheel-drive system that offers rally-bred stability in the most treacherous of conditions. Factor in Subaru's reputation for bullet-proof reliability and the 2010 Outback is a winner.
Volvo XC90 D5
Click here for a quoteThe XC90 has been garnering itself fans the world over courtesy of its excellent ground clearance and intelligent all-wheel drive system, that pushes more power to the back wheels when it senses the front ones are slipping. Owners can also expect exceptional levels of safety equipment, appreciate the practicality of seven seats and an epic boot, and be impressed by the handling which feels very un-SUV.
Range Rover TDV8 Vogue SE
Click here for a quoteThis grandaddy of all off-roaders offers the best full-fat 4x4 experience money can buy, and not only can you indulge in the finest luxuries on the inside, you'll enjoy the car's astonishing off-road capabilities courtesy of its (non-gimmick) driving systems and its rocksteady and safe on-road manners in any weather, due to its supple ride and astonishingly refined diesel engine.
Audi R8
Click here for a quoteIf you want to splash out on a supercar without spinning out in the snow, then there is one sports car that offers peace of mind as well as staggering performance. Featuring Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system, near ideal front/rear weight distribution and a highly effective electronic stability program, it's surprising just how drivable and well-behaved the 414bhp R8 is in wintery conditions but just steer clear of snow drifts because supercars aren't known for their ground clearance.
