Best Used AWD Vehicles for Snowy Duty Stations

When you’re stationed at a place that sees heavy snow and icy roads, having the right vehicle can make a big difference in your daily commute.

An all-wheel-drive vehicle can provide added traction on snowy roads, while other factors like higher ground clearance, winter-tire compatibility, and strong reliability can make winter driving less stressful.

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a fortune on a new SUV to get those benefits. These used AWD vehicles offer a combination of capability, reliability, and practicality that makes them worth considering for snowy duty stations.

1.) Mazda CX-5 AWD

The Mazda CX-5 is one of the most popular picks in the compact SUV segment due to its sophisticated styling, punchy engine choices, and available all-wheel drive.

It also feels reasonably car-like when you drive it, making it easy to handle on densely packed streets and park in tight spaces.

Used examples from 2019 through 2023 offer a particularly appealing balance of features and driving dynamics, and give you all-wheel drive without that added bulk of a larger SUV, making it a good option for service members who spend a lot of time behind the wheel.

However, one important consideration is the SUV’s ground clearance. The Mazda CX-5 sits lower than SUVs, such as the Forester, so it isn’t the first choice when regularly driving through deep, unplowed snow.

It can be a capable option if you normally drive on plowed or treated roads. Additionally, recent reliability comparisons have found the model quite competitive with popular rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester.

2.) Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is one of the most obvious choices for service members stationed in areas that regularly receive snow.

All Forester models come with all-wheel drive, and its relatively generous ground clearance helps when roads haven’t been completely cleared after a storm.

The upright seating position and large windows also provide excellent visibility when navigating snowy streets, parking lots, and narrow roads.

When shopping for a used Forester, we recommend models from 2019 to 2023. These examples offer a good combination of modern safety, technology, practicality, and reasonable fuel economy without the price of a new vehicle.

The spacious cargo area can also be useful for carrying everything from winter gear to groceries.

While it’s not that sporty, and its engine isn’t designed for towing heavy loads, the Subaru Forester is a practical choice with its high ground clearance and standard AWD.

3.) Toyota RAV4 AWD

The Toyota RAV4 AWD is another strong choice for snowy duty stations because it combines available all-wheel drive with practicality, fuel efficiency, and a large used-vehicle market.

That last point can be especially important when you’re shopping on a military budget because there are typically plenty of used RAV4s from which to choose.

We recommend models from the 2019 to 2023 range, as the fifth-generation RAV4 has a more rugged design than its predecessor and offers a comfortable amount of ground clearance for typical winter driving.

The RAV4 is also available as a hybrid, which can be particularly attractive if your duty station involves a long commute. The hybrid’s electric motors provide AWD capability without requiring a traditional mechanical four-wheel-drive system.

However, it could be smart to get a proper set of winter tires if you’re stationed in an area with deep snow.

4.) Honda CR-V AWD

If you’re looking for something practical and easy to live with, the Honda CR-V is another AWD vehicle worth considering. Not only is it available with extra traction, but the CR-V also provides plenty of passenger and cargo space without being unwieldy to drive.

Used examples from roughly 2017 through 2022 can offer a good combination of modern features and affordability. The CR-V is also a particularly sensible choice for drivers who plan to use the vehicle for more than just winter driving.

Its relatively good fuel economy and comfortable ride make it well suited for daily commuting, road trips, and longer drives between your home and a duty station.

However, the Honda CR-V’s limitation compared with something like a Subaru Forester is that AWD isn’t standard across the lineup. You’ll need to make sure the particular used vehicle you’re considering actually has the AWD system.

5.) Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback occupies an interesting middle ground between a traditional crossover and a wagon.

Like the Forester, it comes standard with all-wheel drive and offers substantial ground clearance, making it particularly well suited for areas that receive significant snowfall.

The Outback also provides a roomy interior and large cargo area, which can be useful if you’re carrying winter equipment, luggage, or other gear.

Models from approximately 2018 to 2023 are worth considering on the used market, depending on your budget.

Additionally, the Subaru Outback doesn’t drive like a large, body-on-frame SUV, making it comfortable for long highway trips while still providing more capability than a typical sedan.

These AWD Vehicles Can Get You Through the Rough Months

If you’re stationed in an area that regularly sees snow, these five vehicles can get you through the rough winter months with ease.

Some of them, including the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V, could still benefit from a proper set of winter tires if you’re in an area that gets deep snow. However, they are great solutions if you prioritize reliability and winter-driving capability.

If you’re looking for an SUV that’s practical and easy to drive in the winter, it could be worth adding these five examples to your short list.