In this guide we see which are the best car models for the mountains . The Christmas holidays have now begun and many will want to go skiing or go somewhere in the snow. Not all cars are suitable for this type of road surface: they must be equipped with certain features that allow driving in complete safety.
In this case it is very useful to know which are the most convenient models for this kind of situation. Below you will find the list of the main features that a car that lends itself to driving in snowy places should have. We will then see what are the best types of cars that are able to meet these requirements.
If you want to rent a car , then surely you can get an idea of ​​which is the best model for going to the mountains in the snow. If, on the other hand, you still want to do the ski holiday but are not willing to give up your own car, then we will see, at the end of the article, how it is possible to adapt your vehicle to face a snowy scenario. Are you curious about the topic? Enjoy the reading!
Best car models for the mountains
Below you will find different car models that are very functional for driving in snow and mountain terrain. These cars are particularly suitable for two points of view: that of road safety and that of performance .
When the winter season arrives, and especially during the Christmas holidays, you may want to spend time in the mountains, to get away from the rhythm of the city and take a break.
But be careful: not all cars are reliable for tackling snowy and uphill terrain . To be able to circulate on snow-covered roads in complete safety, it will certainly be necessary to be driving a car suitable for the mountains and snow . The suitable ones are the cars that are able to maintain control on icy or snow-covered surfaces and, in general, are able to handle the most hostile and cold season of the whole year, especially for those who live in northern Italy.
Below we see what are the main characteristics that cars must have to be the best models to tackle mountain terrain. Not only that, but the types of cars we are going to see have very interesting specifications. Here they are below!
Best car models for the mountains: the main features
To go on a ski holiday it is important to have the right means. But what is the perfect car to go to the mountains in winter? Four- wheel drive for sure , but that’s not the only important feature.
There needs to be others that give the possibility to proceed even where the terrain is more difficult due to snow and ice. Despite the difficulties of the road surface, it is necessary to know how to proceed in complete safety. In this way, it will be possible to guarantee levels of grip on the ground in sections where it is impossible to reach if you have a two-wheel drive car.
But that’s not all. There is also a need for a cabin that is able to accommodate all passengers in maximum comfort . When the cold gets bitter, it’s important to find a cozy place to be inside! In general, however, the main characteristics that a winter mountain car should have are the following:
- High bodywork
- Four-wheel drive
- Large trunk
- Comfortable interior
Best car models for the mountains: the high body
One of the main features for a car that has to deal with mountain terrain is having a body with high wheels. A typical example of models that have this type of trim are crossovers and SUVs .
Why is it important that the wheels are high? If the car has a good ground clearance, it avoids the fact that the lower part of the car continuously touches the snowy surface.
Thus, it is safer and there is a greater guarantee that the car will continue to walk without running the risk of having to stop due to road sections with too much snow.
Car models for the mountains: 4 × 4 all-wheel drive
Why is it important to have a car with all-wheel drive when tackling mountain terrain? This feature is certainly essential when going on the snow. The reason is that 4 × 4 cars, unlike those with double drive wheels, are able to distribute the drive torque on both sides.
This means that, if it happens that one or more wheels lose grip to the ground, then it may be possible to continue driving and continue the journey thanks to the support of the two remaining drive wheels which are still firmly anchored to the ground.
Best car models for the mountains: the spacious trunk
The most suitable cars for dealing with mountain injuries and the weekend on the nine are those that have a spacious trunk.
In looking for the perfect car , therefore, it is good to go and see if it has a load compartment large enough to hold a number of objects. In fact, when you go on holiday in a white week, you need to bring with you the necessary equipment that is able to tackle both the ski and snowboard slopes.
These kinds of things are very roomy and take up a lot of space. Here, for example, an ideal car for this kind of situation will probably be a station wagon model.
Best car models for the mountains: spacious interior
Another important element to take into consideration when looking for a mountain car for the skiing holiday is the interior . This must be, first of all, comfortable . So the car will be the best place to welcome passengers before and after a busy day in the mountains. The ideal, again, would be to have a car with heated seats for both the front and rear rows.
This way you will not suffer from the cold once you are on board. It is also important that it is a spacious interior so that everyone can be comfortable. Among the various accessories that are particularly useful, there is the through armrest which is located along the rear rows. This is when you decide to carry your skis inside the car.
What are the best car models for the mountains?
Surely, the big brands of automotive manufacturers have many alternatives, all valid, of cars that provide for four-wheel drive. They are cars that are able to face the most difficult stretches of snow thanks to very high performance. Among the most interesting models with 4 × 4 drive , let’s see some of them specifically:
- Alfa Romeo Stelvio
- Mercedes G-Class
- Audi A4 Allroad
- Fiat Panda Cross
- Land Rover Defender 57.400
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio represents the first SUV model of the German production house. From the very first moment, this car proved to be a real success for the Alfa Romeo manufacturer. Although the body was designed to support the high wheels, the sporty spirit typical of the Alfa Romeo range has not changed . The Stelvio features Q4 all-wheel drive and two different engines can be chosen: diesel and petrol . Its technical specifications make this car perfect for driving in the mountains in complete safety.
Its list price is 61,500 euros.
Mercedes G-Class
The Mercedes G-Class is now a real icon of the German brand. What makes her immediately recognizable is certainly her style , which, over the years and the restylings, has practically remained the same. As for the interior, the passenger compartment is characterized by luxurious materials and a series of cutting-edge features that contribute to greater driving safety . In fact, they allow the driver to always be connected and supported by the various ADAS . As for the engines, you can choose two: diesel and petrol , with powers that reach a maximum of585 CV.
The price starts from 128,100 euros.
Audi A4 Allroad
For these people, the House of the Four Rings has thought of making a station wagon that has permanent all-wheel drive. Compared to the off-road versions with similar characteristics, the ground clearance of the A4 is slightly higher.
Under the bonnet, hybrid engines can be set up that reach a maximum power of 286 hp. Its list price is 55,800 euros with the basic equipment.
Fiat Panda Cross
The Fiat Panda represents a true icon among the cars suitable for the mountains. If you have to tackle snowy journeys, this car model is truly unstoppable.
Among the most interesting aspects of the Italian city car, there are three worthy of note: compact dimensions, low mass and permanent all-wheel drive.
Among the available engines , there is the powerful 85 HP petrol engine. The starting price ranges from 17,500 euros.
Land Rover Defender
Generally, it is quite a difficult undertaking for an automobile manufacturer to replace what has long been an iconic car. Certainly, however, the Land Rover Defender can be said to have succeeded in this feat.
The style has been studied in every detail and never ceases to have references to the past, adapting them however to a touch of modernity. As for the interiors, these are spacious and comfortable, with attention to every little detail and technological.
Among the available engines, there are two hybrid units of 2.0 liters and 3.0. The total power reaches 404 hp.
The list price is 57,600 euros.
Adapting the car to mountain tours: useful tips
If you have no intention of changing cars and want to stay true to your car, no problem. You can still be ready to face the winter holidays, but just equip yourself in the right way . Here are some useful tips that can help you to better enjoy the mountain experience.
In case you have a car powered by a diesel engine, you must definitely pay attention to the low temperatures found in the snow. It is true that petrol cars have an engine that freezes at 40 degrees below zero . In the case of diesel , however, the liquid solidifies even only a few degrees below zero.
It must also be said that, in any case, to date the various multinational fuel companies have taken steps to ensure a solution. They are therefore able to provide additives that allow the diesel to be able to withstand temperatures that reach -12 degrees.
It is important to know that if you spend several hours where the temperatures are very low, especially during the night hours, the car could stop. This happens when you walk at high altitudes, such as in the Trentino or Veneto mountains.
Solutions for going on holiday in the mountains
Once you know this information about the diesel engine, you can work around some problems. First of all, once you arrive in the mountain areas, you need to refuel at the service stations. There they will surely have the so-called “Arctic diesel” which is able to withstand temperatures reaching -48 degrees below zero.
We must not forget, to equip yourself adequately in order to comply with the current legislation for winter tires. It is in fact necessary to get tires for the winter beforehand or, alternatively, snow chains.
Finally, it is always good not to forget to be cautious. When driving on snow, or on icy road surfaces, both the accelerator and the brakes must be used with care.
In fact, it happens that the car may have less grip than a terrain that is at higher temperatures and, if you are not careful, you could run the risk of skidding.
It is never enough to have the right expertise and attention to avoid further problems. Thus, regardless of the model and make of the car, it is important to check that the vehicle is in perfect mechanical condition . In this way, maximum safety can be guaranteed not only for the driver but also for the rest of the passengers.
