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If the weather turns chilly, you might need a truck to get around Pittsburgh or Rochester’s treacherous winter roads.
An all-wheel or four-wheel drive pickup truck can easily get you through the colder months due to its larger wheels, outstanding grip, and heavy body that won’t slip and slide easily.
Below is a list of the best truck for snow and ice. For more specific information, keep reading.
Best Truck For Snow And Ice
Honda Ridgeline
Beyond four-wheel drive and multi-mode drive systems, the best trucks for snow and ice automatically adjust key driving systems for optimum performance on various terrain types. The Honda Ridgeline, for example, features a standard Intelligent Traction Management system with dedicated “Snow” settings for both front- and all-wheel-drive models. The all-wheel-drive Ridgeline further provides settings for “Mud” and “Sand.” As for other useful features for colder climates, the Ridgeline comes standard with a rearview camera and can be ordered with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. A 280-horsepower V6 engine is also standard in the midsize Ridgeline, and additional features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and all of the Honda Sensing driver aids are all available as options.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is one of the best trucks for snow and ice in the full-size segment as a result of the Blue Oval’s ongoing upgrades to the nation’s best-selling automobile. The most recent benefit is a 10-speed automatic transmission option with five driver-selectable operating modes. Needless to say, “snow/wet” is among them, but also in the mix is a “normal” setting, along with three modes for optimum fuel efficiency, maximum performance, or hard-core towing and hauling. The F-150 also has other new features besides just that transmission. An entirely new 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine is paired with the new gearbox as standard, and Ford further advances technology by making use of tools like a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado relies on an electronically locking rear differential for a significant traction benefit, unlike the best trucks for snow and ice with multi-mode drive systems. Per Chevy, this gives the truck the extra traction it needs to “power through the toughest terrain by keeping the rear wheels moving together” (instead of independently.) Additionally, owners can combine that differential with four-wheel drive for increased levels of traction even though it is standard for rear-wheel-drive models. By providing heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated outside mirrors, the Silverado seals the deal for cold-weather buyers. Chevy offers an ordinary mobile Wi-Fi hotspot and smartphone integration for Android Auto/Apple CarPlay when it comes to the hottest technologies in the market.
Chevrolet Colorado
In some cases, the best trucks for snow and ice are the same ones made for high-performance off-road work. One vehicle that comes standard is the Chevrolet Colorado, which has an all-speed traction control system that was especially designed to keep traction in slippery or snowy conditions. The lineup’s most capable member is the new ZR2 model, though. Wider front and rear tracks, more stable handling, and both front and rear locking differentials (when equipped with AWD) are also added to the Colorado ZRZ, which is built to handle everything from rock crawling to desert running. Naturally, the Colorado meets the same requirements for standard connectivity technology and optional heating as its larger sibling.
Ford Ranger Wildtrak
Unbelievably powerful 2.0-litre DuraTorq engines are also available for the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, but the 3.2-liter diesel engine is the more powerful option. It has 4×4 drive (upgrading from front wheel drive), a fully lockable differential, and enormous grippy tires. The interior is a great combination of hard plastics and leather, even on the back seats.
Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist, and heated seats are just a few of the technological features that make it easier to drive in difficult conditions. Okay, so the heated seats in the Ford Ranger are really more about keeping you warm.
The most recent Nissan Navara in the Tekna trim level has one of the best cabins on the market in addition to being excellent in the snow. Therefore, even if you do get stuck in the snow, at least you’ll be comfortable and have a nice infotainment screen to use.
The driving technology is also excellent, with Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, and an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD) with cut-off that makes quick work of ice. However, you’ll have to pay extra for the Rear Differential Lock, which is why I listed it as the least expensive.
Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian X
If you’ve already watched the video, you’ve probably noticed how effortlessly the Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian X pickup truck climbs the hills. Although I was surprised and impressed, the more I give it some thought, the more I realize why this one handled the snow so expertly.
The 6th series of the L200 has undergone a complete redesign and is over 200 kg lighter than either the Navara or Wildtrak. Its full-lock low range setting is also enhanced by a switchable mud/snow traction control setting. It is the only truck in the group to come equipped with all-terrain tires as standard.
Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra, which has the ideal name for one of our best trucks for snow and ice, can handle slick surfaces in a number of ways. For example, traction control systems in rear-wheel-drive trims come standard with automatic limited-slip differentials, and Toyota’s A-TRAC Active Traction Control is available in four-wheel versions. To ensure that the Tundra’s traction settings are appropriate for the relevant road, or trail, conditions, A-TRAC itself has a multi-mode controller. It should come as no surprise that the full-size Tundra has heating elements for its seats and outside mirrors, but oddly not for its steering wheel. Standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning are also unexpected in this case.
RAM 1500 Rebel
The Rebel model of the RAM 1500, which combines 33-inch tires and a 1-inch factory lift kit for 10.3 inches of altitude, is the version of the vehicle that is most capable of being driven off-road. The truck can avoid trouble in a variety of winter weather situations with that level of ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and an automatic locking rear differential. A 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is included in the Rebel’s infotainment system, which also boasts the newest smartphone integration technology. The standard set of three heating options are also available for the seats, steering wheel, and outside mirrors.
GMC Sierra
The GMC Sierra offers a specific model for the toughest road surfaces, just like many of the best trucks on this list. The Professional Grade Sierra All Terrain X sports Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires, four-wheel drive with a two-speed Autotrac transfer case, and a trail-friendly suspension with Rancho monotube shocks for more conventional off-road adventures. Drivers of the Sierra All Terrain X can take advantage of upscale features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated outside mirrors because it is a GMC product. The truck also benefits from a GM standard connectivity feature that includes a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
GMC Canyon
Since the midsize GMC Canyon is available with many of the same features as the Sierra, it is unsurprising that it is recognized as one of the best trucks for snow and ice. In particular, the Canyon includes its own All Terrain X package for Wrangler DuraTrac tires, an automatic locking differential, a standard two-speed transfer case, heated seats, heated exterior mirrors, and a heated steering wheel. A mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay are included as standard cutting-edge connectivity options. GM safety technologies like forward collision alert, low-speed forward automatic braking, and lane-keeping assistance are also available on the Canyon, the Sierra, the Chevy Silverado, and the Colorado.
Jeep Gladiator
With 4×4 systems available on the Sport and Overland models, this enormous vehicle cruises over snow and ice with ease. With four-wheel and all-wheel drive options, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel, the Overland Gladiator model may be the best for winter weather.
Why Is A Pickup Truck Useful In Snowy Weather?
Pickup trucks with four-wheel or all-wheel drive can easily navigate the snow.
In icy conditions, there is less risk of any rear ends sliding out because these workhorses carry more weight in the back. Here are just a few reasons why a pickup may be the best truck for snow:
- Higher road clearance to get through snow easier
- Typically longer vehicles that spread their weight on icy roads to improve grip
- Larger wheels increase surface area and stability
All-wheel Drive
Choosing all-wheel drive for your truck will ensure your safety while driving.
This means that power is distributed among all the wheels, giving the pickup equal force and enabling it to move easily over ice and snow.
Snow Tires
Although they are a great addition to any pickup and are not legally required, snow tires are highly advised.
Wider treads on snow tires give your car more traction and lessen the likelihood that it will slide or skid in icy or deep snow.
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What Specifications Set Off The Best Pickup Trucks For Snow?
When searching for the best pickup trucks for snow and ice, you should look for models with a track record of success in challenging off-road situations. Your choice may ultimately come down to which brand of truck you prefer to drive because the majority of contemporary pickup trucks offer 4WD configurations and trim levels designed for off-road capability.
With that said, you should consider all of the following factors when you’re deciding on the perfect model:
Longer Body, Even Weight Distribution
The short box should be skipped over even if you don’t intend to transport much cargo. Pickup trucks with longer bodies are less likely to become stuck on a rough patch because traction is generally improved in most driving conditions, including ice and snow, when a vehicle’s weight is dispersed over a wider area.
Equally crucial to remember is that you should try to choose a model with a balanced, 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution. When conditions are challenging, a vehicle is much more likely to become stuck if the weight is too evenly distributed on either end. When the time comes to load a trailer for the winter, keep that information in mind.
Four-wheel Drive (vs. All-wheel Drive)
On Milwaukee and Waukesha roads, all-wheel drive can help you navigate through ice patches; however, four-wheel drive will be much more effective in deep snow. In general, AWD can transfer torque from the front or rear to the opposite set of tires; 4WD can do the same, but it can also transfer torque from the left to the right, ensuring that the wheels with the most traction can receive the most power.
Ground Clearance
Your car is less likely to get stuck in deep snow if it has more ground clearance. Explore all of your preferred manufacturer’s stock options because larger wheels and tires can obviously be very helpful in these circumstances.
If you require even more clearance, leveling kits and lift kits can increase your vehicle’s overall height and ground clearance by two to ten inches.
Our parts department will be happy to assist you in weighing your options, and we can also help you outfit your car for work like snow removal.
Snow Tires
Larger wheels and tires can be helpful in ice and snow, as we’ve already mentioned, but not all truck tires are created equal. When it’s cold outside, winter tires work better than all-season tires, cutting a vehicle’s stopping distance by 30% or more. Winter tires are also frequently thinner than all-season tires, which makes it easier for them to cut through snow and maintain better traction on ice.
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Tips For Driving In Snow And Ice
There are still some things you can do to make driving in snow and ice as safe as possible, regardless of how great your pickup truck is. Here are just a few tips to consider:
Keep Your Speed Down
Try to maintain a safe speed when dealing with dangerous driving situations. Even on highways, the ideal speed is up to 30 mph.
Use The Correct Tires
We cannot stress enough how important it is to install winter tires. Winter tires have wider treads that allow water to quickly pass through to reduce drag and are softer, allowing them to roll over snow and ice with ease.
Brake Early
Sharp braking can be particularly dangerous even when operating a large pickup truck because snow and ice can cause skidding. To give yourself plenty of time to come to a safe stop, plan to brake early.