Looking for the best SUV for winter driving in Canada? You’re not alone. Whether you’re navigating icy streets in Winnipeg or heading out on snow-covered highways, Manitoba winters demand vehicles that offer traction, comfort, and cold-weather capability. At Birchwood, we carry a wide range of winter-ready SUVs across our dealership network—each offering features that help you stay safe and in control when conditions get tough. In this guide, we’re highlighting some of the top options available in Manitoba today—organized by size and segment—to help you find the SUV that fits your lifestyle and the season.
Best Compact SUVs for Winter Driving in Manitoba
Compact SUVs offer all-season flexibility without the size and weight of larger vehicles—making them a smart choice for urban drivers, commuters, or anyone who wants winter confidence in a more maneuverable design.
2026 Kia Seltos
The 2026 Kia Seltos blends bold design with real-world winter features—ideal for Manitoba’s unpredictable cold snaps.
- Available AWD provides added grip on icy roads and snowy streets.
- Heated front and rear seats keep all passengers comfortable in sub-zero temps.
- Windshield wiper de-icer and remote start help streamline your winter mornings.
2025 Chevrolet Trax
Don’t let its small size fool you—the 2025 Trax brings practical comfort and surprising cold-weather capability to the table.
- Available AWD delivers confidence on slick surfaces.
- Standard heated seats and steering wheel on most trims keep you cozy.
- Compact footprint makes parking and maneuvering in winter conditions a breeze.
2025 Ford Escape
Known for its versatility, the 2025 Escape offers intelligent features and adaptable performance for Manitoba winters.
- Intelligent AWD system reacts in real-time to changing road conditions.
- Selectable drive modes, including Slippery Mode, help optimize traction.
- Remote start and heated options enhance daily driving comfort in colder months.
Midsize SUVs: Roomier Rides with Rugged Capability
For families, frequent highway drivers, or those needing more cargo space, midsize SUVs offer a strong balance of comfort, control, and all-weather performance—especially useful during Manitoba’s long winter season.
2025 Toyota Highlander
The Highlander is a trusted favourite in Canadian driveways for good reason—it handles winter roads with ease while keeping passengers safe and comfortable.
- Standard AWD across most trims enhances winter driving confidence.
- Heated front seats and available heated second row fight the freeze for the whole family.
- Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ includes lane-keeping, pre-collision alerts, and other winter-ready safety tech.
2025 Chevrolet Blazer
With bold styling and smart winter features, the 2025 Blazer brings capability and comfort together for Manitoba’s colder months.
- Available AWD with drive mode selector, including Snow/Ice mode.
- Heated front seats and steering wheel standard on many trims.
- Remote start and rear park assist add everyday convenience in snowy conditions.
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Redesigned for 2026, the Santa Fe blends bold style with practical features that make a big difference in Manitoba’s winter.
- HTRAC All-Wheel Drive with Snow Mode for confident traction on icy roads.
- Standard heated front seats and steering wheel for cold-weather comfort.
- Available Surround View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist simplify snowy parking scenarios.
Luxury SUVs: Premium Comfort Meets Winter Performance
When winter driving meets refined design, luxury SUVs offer the best of both worlds. These vehicles don’t just handle harsh conditions—they do it with elevated comfort, advanced technology, and all-season confidence.
2025 Lexus RX
The RX continues to be one of Canada’s most trusted luxury SUVs—and for good reason. It blends sleek styling with intelligent winter-ready features.
- Standard AWD across all trims, including self-charging hybrid models.
- Heated front and rear seats, plus available heated steering wheel for total cabin warmth.
- Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including advanced lane assist, radar cruise control, and pre-collision warnings.
2026 BMW X3 xDrive30i
Sporty, spacious, and smart—the BMW X3 is a luxury SUV that handles winter roads like a pro.
- xDrive intelligent AWD actively monitors and adjusts for road conditions.
- Heated front seats, available rear seat heating, and optional heated steering wheel.
- Parking Assistant Plus with 360° camera makes snowbank parking a breeze.
2025 Volvo XC60
Scandinavian by design, the XC60 was made with winter in mind. It’s refined, safe, and engineered for snow and ice.
- Standard AWD and mild hybrid powertrain ensure smooth, stable driving in all weather.
- Heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, and Volvo’s signature minimalist cabin.
- Pilot Assist semi-autonomous drive support makes highway travel easier in tough conditions.
Winter SUV FAQs
Q: What features should I look for in a winter-ready SUV?
Look for all-wheel drive (AWD), heated seats and steering wheel, remote start, and drive modes for snow or ice.
Q: Are compact SUVs good for winter driving in Manitoba?
Yes. Many compact SUVs come with AWD and heated features—offering big winter benefits in a smaller footprint.
Q: Do luxury SUVs handle snow better than standard models?
Luxury SUVs often include enhanced AWD systems, additional safety tech, and more refined climate features that elevate cold-weather performance.
Conclusion: Ready for Whatever Winter Throws Your Way
Whether you’re navigating icy highways, braving blizzard-filled commutes, or just trying to stay warm on the drive to work, the right SUV can make all the difference. From compact picks like the Kia Seltos to luxury leaders like the Lexus RX, Birchwood offers a wide range of winter-ready vehicles designed to meet the challenges of Manitoba’s coldest months.
Not sure which SUV is right for your needs? Our team can walk you through AWD options, compare winter-ready features, and help you find a model that fits your lifestyle—and your budget.
Explore all available SUVs at birchwood.ca.
