Which is better for winter driving: a used Subaru Forester or Mazda CX-5?

For winter driving, the Subaru Forester is the superior choice if you frequently face deep snow, unplowed roads, or rural winter conditions. Its permanent Symmetrical AWD system distributes power continuously, and its 8.7 inches of ground clearance easily clears snowbanks. It also offers exceptional outward visibility, which is crucial during winter storms.

Conversely, the Mazda CX-5 is the better choice for suburban or city drivers who mostly encounter plowed, icy, or slushy roads. While its AWD system is highly capable and predictive, it operates with a front-wheel bias until slip is detected or anticipated. The CX-5 excels in cabin warmth, interior comfort, and sporty handling on cleared roads, but is limited by lower ground clearance and smaller windows compared to the Forester.

Note: Regardless of which vehicle you choose, fitting dedicated winter tires is the single most important factor for braking and cornering safety on ice and snow.