Best Compact Cars for Snow: Top Picks for Winter Driving

Winter can be a challenging season for drivers, especially those who live in areas with heavy snowfall. Compact cars are a popular choice for many drivers due to their fuel efficiency, affordability, and ease of maneuverability. However, not all compact cars are created equal when it comes to driving in snowy conditions.

In this article, we will be discussing the best compact cars for snow. We have researched and tested various models to identify the ones that provide the best traction, handling, and safety features for snowy roads. When choosing a compact car for snow, it’s essential to consider factors such as all-wheel drive, ground clearance, and tire quality.

All-wheel drive is a crucial feature for driving in snowy conditions. It provides power to all four wheels, which improves traction and stability on slippery roads. Ground clearance is also important as it determines how high the car sits above the ground. A higher ground clearance can help prevent snow from getting stuck under the car, which can affect handling and traction. Finally, tire quality is critical as it can significantly impact a car’s ability to grip the road in snowy conditions.

After extensive research and testing, we have identified the top compact cars that excel in snowy conditions. In the following sections, we will discuss each model’s features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision when choosing a compact car for snow.

Best Compact Cars for Snow

When winter arrives, it’s important to have a car that can handle the snow and ice on the roads. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best compact cars for snow. These cars have all-wheel drive, good ground clearance, and excellent handling in slippery conditions. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out on a weekend adventure, these cars will get you there safely and reliably. Check out our top picks below.

OxGord 2-in-1 Ice Scraper -amp; Snow Brush

If you’re looking for a compact and durable ice scraper and snow brush combo, the OxGord 2-in-1 is a great option.

Pros

• The high-strength temperature resistant aluminum -amp; ABS parts make it durable and able to withstand freezing cold weather.
• The soft foam handgrip is comfortable to hold and makes it easy to brush off snow and scrape under ice without damaging the windshield or your hand.
• The compact and slim design makes it easy to store in your vehicle’s trunk.

Cons

• The blade may not be formed correctly on some units, making it difficult to remove ice easily.
• The handle could be longer or extendable to reach the center of larger windshields.
• The plastic material may be prone to chipping or breaking in extremely cold weather.

We’ve used the OxGord 2-in-1 Ice Scraper -amp; Snow Brush and found it to be a reliable tool for removing ice and snow from our car’s windshield. The soft foam handgrip is a nice touch, making it comfortable to use for extended periods of time. The compact size also makes it easy to store in our car’s trunk, taking up minimal space. However, we did notice that the blade on some units may not be formed correctly, making it difficult to remove ice easily. Additionally, the handle could be longer or extendable to reach the center of larger windshields. Overall, we recommend the OxGord 2-in-1 Ice Scraper -amp; Snow Brush for its durability and convenience.

Mallory SnoWEEvel Snow Brush

We highly recommend purchasing the Mallory SnoWEEvel Snow Brush for its combination brush and scraper, contour foam grip for comfort and control, and 16-inch length.

Pros

• The combination brush and scraper make it easy to clear snow and ice from your car.
• The contour foam grip provides ultimate comfort and control, making it easy to use for extended periods.
• At 16 inches long, the brush is the perfect length for reaching all areas of your car.

Cons

• The brush may be too short for taller individuals or larger vehicles.
• The plastic handle may not be as durable as other materials.
• The brush may not be suitable for heavy snow or ice buildup.

We recently used the Mallory SnoWEEvel Snow Brush during a winter storm and were impressed with its effectiveness. The combination brush and scraper made it easy to clear snow and ice from our car, and the contour foam grip provided a comfortable hold even with gloves on. The 16-inch length was perfect for reaching all areas of our car, but may be too short for taller individuals or larger vehicles. The plastic handle may not be as durable as other materials, but for the price, it is a great value. Overall, we highly recommend the Mallory SnoWEEvel Snow Brush for its effectiveness, comfort, and value.

Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel

If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight shovel to keep in your car for emergencies, the Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel is a great option.

Pros

• The collapsible design makes it easy to store in your car trunk or backpack.
• The aluminum material is lightweight but sturdy enough to handle heavy snow.
• The shovel is versatile and can be used for various outdoor activities.

Cons

• The handle length may be too short for taller individuals.
• The blade is not as wide as some other shovels on the market.
• The orange color may not be everyone’s preference.

We recently purchased the Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel for our winter driving preparation kit and have been impressed with its performance. The collapsible design allows us to easily store it in our car trunk without taking up too much space.

The aluminum material is lightweight, which makes it easy to handle, but it’s still sturdy enough to handle heavy snow. We’ve used it to dig our car out of a few snowbanks, and it has held up well.

We also appreciate the versatility of this shovel. It’s not just for snow, but can be used for camping and other outdoor activities as well.

The only downside we’ve found is that the handle length may be too short for taller individuals. Additionally, the blade is not as wide as some other shovels on the market, which may make it take longer to clear a large area. Lastly, the orange color may not be everyone’s preference, but we don’t mind it.

Overall, we highly recommend the Lifeline Aluminum Sport Utility Shovel for anyone looking for a compact and lightweight shovel for emergencies or outdoor activities.

Overmont Telescopic Emergency Snow Shovel for Car

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable snow shovel that can handle various situations, the Overmont Telescopic Emergency Snow Shovel for Car is a great choice.

Pros

• The sturdy aluminum shovel head and reinforced telescopic handle are durable and capable of withstanding greater force and breaking through hardened snow.
• Measuring 10.6”x8.5”, it offers a larger snow removal area, facilitating easy and effective snow shoveling.
• Its retractable design allows the snow shovel to freely adjust between 32.67” to 39.37”, securely locking in place for your safety while moving heavy objects.

Cons

• The handle arm is short, and the head is narrow, which may not be ideal for people who prefer a larger shovel.
• The ice scraper included is handy for removing ice and snow from car windows, but it may not be as effective as a dedicated ice scraper.
• The shovel surface is not as wide as some other models, which may make it less efficient for larger snow removal tasks.

We recently tested the Overmont Telescopic Emergency Snow Shovel for Car, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The sturdy aluminum shovel head and reinforced telescopic handle make it durable and capable of withstanding greater force and breaking through hardened snow. The ergonomically designed D-shaped handle, made of PP material, provides a stable and comfortable grip, making it easier to remove heavy objects.

Measuring 10.6”x8.5”, it offers a larger snow removal area, facilitating easy and effective snow shoveling. After a winter blizzard, the small ice scraper included is handy for easily removing ice and snow from car windows. Its retractable design allows the snow shovel to freely adjust between 32.67” to 39.37”, securely locking in place for your safety while moving heavy objects. The shovel surface is also designed with 4 small holes for convenient hanging in suitable locations.

This portable shovel features an ultra-compact foldable design, collapsing to just 16 inches. It comes with a storage bag, enabling you to place it in any location, from a backpack to under a car seat, providing convenient support for your adventures anytime. The aluminum telescopic snow shovel is not only ideal for shoveling snow but also perfect for camping, hiking, and outdoor expeditions. It handles various situations effortlessly, such as snow, soil, mud, sand. Whether you’re on outdoor adventures or facing sudden harsh weather, this snow shovel is your reliable companion.

In summary, if you’re looking for a compact and versatile snow shovel that you can take with you on your outdoor adventures, the Overmont Telescopic Emergency Snow Shovel for Car is a great choice.

BIRDROCK HOME 24″ Snow Brush with Detachable Ice Scraper for Car

If you are looking for a compact and lightweight snow brush with a detachable ice scraper, the BIRDROCK HOME 24″ Snow Brush with Detachable Ice Scraper for Car is a great option.

Pros

• Works best for compact cars and small SUVs.
• Detachable brush and scraper for more control and precision.
• Lightweight aluminum body allows for easy maneuvering with one hand.

Cons

• The brush end is turned at a peculiar angle, which can make it awkward to use the scraper end.
• The blade doesn’t always scrape well across the rounded edge of a windshield.
• The size may not be suitable for larger vehicles.

This snow brush is designed to fight off winter for years to come with its strong aluminum body and durable thick plastic. The PVC bristles are sturdy enough to brush off snow, but flexible enough to reach snow in every nook and cranny, including windshield wipers and dashboard. The ice scraper is tough on ice but gentle on your car exterior to keep it scratch-free.

The BIRDROCK HOME 24″ Snow Brush with Detachable Ice Scraper for Car is compact and lightweight, making it easy to stow away in your compact car or small SUV. The snow brush also detaches into two sections, making it even more compact for storage. The super soft foam grip provides extra texture surface, so you have more control while cleaning off your windshield of snow, ice, or frost.

Overall, this snow brush is a great choice for those looking for a compact and lightweight option for their compact car or small SUV. However, it may not be the best choice for larger vehicles.

AstroAI Windshield Snow Cover

If you’re looking for a reliable windshield snow cover, the AstroAI Windshield Snow Cover is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The cover is versatile and fits a wide range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and MPVs.
• The rear-view mirror covers are flexible and easy to install, ensuring a seamless fit to most vehicles.
• The cover is designed for all-season protection, and can withstand rain, ice, dust, and even animal waste.

Cons

• The straps may not be adequate to hold the cover in place during windy or snowy conditions.
• The cover may be a little difficult to install for one person.
• The cover may be a little larger than expected for smaller cars.

We recently had the opportunity to try out the AstroAI Windshield Snow Cover, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The cover is made of high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the elements, making it a great investment for those who live in areas with heavy snowfall.

One of the standout features of the AstroAI Windshield Snow Cover is its versatility. The cover is designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and MPVs. This means that you can use it on multiple vehicles, making it a great value for the price.

Another great feature of the AstroAI Windshield Snow Cover is its flexible rear-view mirror protection. The two independent rear-view mirror covers have improved flexibility, making installation simpler and ensuring a seamless fit to most vehicles.

In terms of performance, the AstroAI Windshield Snow Cover is designed for all-season protection. The thickened snow cover contains four layers that are waterproof, frost-proof, and scratch-proof, and shields vehicles from rainfall, ice, dust, and even animal waste. The cover also has improved safety features, including upgraded anti-theft flaps to protect the snow cover from being stolen, and reflective warning straps on the rear mirror covers to prevent nighttime accidents.

While there are a few minor downsides to the AstroAI Windshield Snow Cover, such as the straps not being adequate to hold the cover in place during windy or snowy conditions, and the cover being a little difficult to install for one person, overall, we found it to be a great investment for anyone looking for a reliable windshield snow cover.

BIRDROCK HOME 34″ Folding Emergency Snow Shovel for Car

If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight snow shovel, the BIRDROCK HOME 34″ Folding Emergency Snow Shovel for Car is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The innovative folding design makes it easy to pack and store.
• The lightweight aluminum construction makes it easy to maneuver.
• The rubber, textured handle provides extra grip.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the shovel can unfold while carrying it.
• The blade may not be as wide as some users would like.
• The compact size may not be ideal for heavy-duty snow removal.

We recently had the chance to test out this snow shovel during a recent snowstorm, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The folding design made it easy to store in our trunk, and the lightweight construction made it easy to handle while shoveling.

The textured handle provided a comfortable grip, and the extended shaft provided extra leverage when needed. We also appreciated the fact that it was multi-functional and could be used for shoveling other natural elements like sand, dirt, and mud.

While it may not be the best option for heavy-duty snow removal, it’s a great choice for those who need a reliable and compact snow shovel for emergencies or lighter snowfalls.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the BIRDROCK HOME 34″ Folding Emergency Snow Shovel for Car to anyone in need of a lightweight and reliable snow shovel.

SCRUBIT Ice Scraper for Cars

If you’re looking for a reliable and long-term windshield snow scraper, the SCRUBIT Ice Scraper for Cars is a great choice.

Pros

• Easy Ice Scraping: The Scrub-It Heavy Duty Car Ice scraper makes cleaning and crushing the Ice and snow over your windows and windshield easy and quick.
• Non-Scratch: The non-scratch car snow remover will not leave a mark or dent on your windows or windshield.
• 2 in 1!!!: The Scrub It car window scraper for snow and ice is a 2-in-1 ice remover for car windshield while also having a small and easy-to-use snow wiper.

Cons

• Not Durable: Some customers have reported that the ice scraper is not made from durable material.
• Short Handle: The handle could be longer for some users.
• Limited Availability: The product is only available in one color.

We recently used the SCRUBIT Ice Scraper for Cars during a snowstorm and found it to be a reliable tool for removing ice and snow from our windshield. The non-scratch feature was a big plus, as we didn’t have to worry about damaging our car’s windows. We also appreciated the 2-in-1 design, which made it easy to switch between ice and snow removal.

However, we did notice that the handle was a bit short, which made it difficult to reach certain areas of the windshield. Additionally, some customers have reported that the ice scraper is not made from durable material and may break after several uses.

Overall, we would recommend the SCRUBIT Ice Scraper for Cars to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use ice scraper for their car.

Mibor Snow Shovel Kit Removal Tools

If you’re in the market for a compact snow removal kit, the Mibor Snow Shovel Kit Removal Tools is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The kit includes all the necessary tools to clear snow around your vehicle
• The lightweight aluminum alloy handle is sturdy and rust-resistant, with a soft foam grip for comfortable use
• The kit is easy to assemble and portable, making it convenient for emergencies on road trips or in your backyard

Cons

• The non-scratchy jaws of the ice scraper may not be effective on thick ice
• The collapsible shovel may not be as capable as a classic snow shovel for heavy snow removal
• The kit may not be suitable for professional use or heavy-duty snow removal

We recently had the chance to test out the Mibor Snow Shovel Kit Removal Tools, and we were impressed with its compact size and portability. The kit includes a snow shovel, snow brush, ice scraper, glove, and mini ice scraper, making it a complete snow removal package.

The ergonomic handle of the kit is made from lightweight and durable aluminum alloy material, providing sturdiness and rust resistance. The D-shaped handle has a soft foam grip that allows you to use the shovel with gloves, making it comfortable to use in cold weather.

Assembly of the kit is a breeze, and once fully assembled, the collapsible shovel is as capable as any classic snow shovel, easily tossing scoop after scoop of snow. The angled-switching rotary brush is effective in removing thick ice and snow, while the non-scratchy jaws of the ice scraper break through the ice surface quickly.

Overall, the Mibor Snow Shovel Kit Removal Tools is a great option for those looking for a compact and portable snow removal kit for emergencies on road trips or in your backyard. However, it may not be suitable for professional use or heavy-duty snow removal.

REDCAMP Aluminum Lightweight Snow Shovel for Car Emergency

If you’re looking for a reliable and compact snow shovel, the REDCAMP Aluminum Lightweight Snow Shovel for Car Emergency is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This shovel is made of durable aluminum and is more sturdy than plastic shovels.
• It can be easily broken down into three pieces for easy storage.
• The adjustable handle can be modified to accommodate a variety of users.

Cons

• The blade length is only 11 inches, which may not be suitable for heavy snowfall.
• The shovel is lightweight and may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
• The blade has holes in it, which may not be suitable for wet or slushy snow.

We recently used the REDCAMP Aluminum Lightweight Snow Shovel for Car Emergency during a snowstorm and were impressed with its performance. The aluminum construction makes it more sturdy than plastic shovels, and the adjustable handle makes it easy to use for people of different heights.

One of the best things about this shovel is that it can be easily broken down into three pieces for easy storage. This makes it perfect for keeping in the trunk of your car or taking on camping trips.

However, the blade length is only 11 inches, which may not be suitable for heavy snowfall. Additionally, the shovel is lightweight and may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks. The blade also has holes in it, which may not be suitable for wet or slushy snow.

Overall, we would recommend the REDCAMP Aluminum Lightweight Snow Shovel for Car Emergency for anyone looking for a reliable and compact snow shovel for emergency situations or light use.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a compact car that can handle snowy conditions, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind to help you choose the best product for your needs.

All-Wheel Drive

All-wheel drive (AWD) is an important feature to consider when looking for a compact car that can handle snowy roads. This system distributes power to all four wheels, providing better traction and stability on slippery surfaces. AWD can be especially useful when accelerating from a stop or climbing hills.

Traction Control

Traction control is another feature that can help improve a car’s performance in snowy conditions. This system helps prevent wheel spin by reducing engine power or applying the brakes to individual wheels. This can help the car maintain traction on slippery roads, making it easier to accelerate and steer.

Winter Tires

Winter tires are specifically designed to perform in cold, snowy conditions. They have a different tread pattern and rubber compound than all-season tires, providing better grip on snow and ice. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, investing in a set of winter tires can greatly improve your car’s performance in the winter.

Ground Clearance

Ground clearance is the distance between the bottom of the car and the ground. A car with higher ground clearance can navigate through deeper snow without getting stuck. However, a car with too much ground clearance may have a higher center of gravity, which can make it less stable on slippery roads.

By considering these factors, you can choose a compact car that is best suited for snowy conditions. Remember to prioritize safety and choose a car that fits your specific needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated compact cars for handling snowy conditions?

When it comes to handling snowy conditions, some of the top-rated compact cars include the Subaru Impreza, Mazda3, and Honda Civic. These cars have all-wheel drive systems that provide excellent traction on snow and ice.

Which compact SUVs perform best in snow and icy roads?

If you’re looking for a compact SUV that performs well in snowy and icy conditions, consider the Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota RAV4. These SUVs have all-wheel drive systems that make them great for driving in winter weather.

What features should I look for in a compact car to ensure good snow performance?

When looking for a compact car that performs well in snow, look for features like all-wheel drive, traction control, and stability control. Winter tires can also make a big difference in how well a car handles on snow and ice.

How do recent compact car models compare in terms of snow and ice driving?

Recent compact car models have improved significantly in terms of snow and ice driving. Many of them now come with all-wheel drive as an option, and some even have it as standard. It’s important to do your research and read reviews to find the best compact car for your needs.

What are the best used compact cars for driving in snow?

If you’re looking for a used compact car that performs well in snow, consider the Subaru Impreza, Honda Civic, and Mazda3. These cars have all-wheel drive systems that make them great for driving in winter weather.

Which compact cars receive the highest marks for snow traction from Consumer Reports?

According to Consumer Reports, some of the compact cars that receive the highest marks for snow traction include the Subaru Impreza, Mazda3, and Honda Civic. These cars have all-wheel drive systems that provide excellent traction on snow and ice.