KBB’s 8 Best New SUVs For Snow, “Every Subaru Outback Comes Right Out Of the Box With AWD, Making This a Great and the Best Car For Snow”

Which are the best-value SUVs for driving in severe weather? 

Kelley Blue Book (KBB), a trusted automotive source, picked eight of the best 2025 model-year SUVs for driving in the snow. 

KBB says, "To qualify for our picks, vehicles must boast an effective drivetrain — the array of components from the transmission to the tires. Look for safety and driver-assist technologies, such as rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, etc. Then, consider comfort or convenience features, such as heated seats and headlight washers, that can make driving a lot easier in snowy weather." 

In this report, I will cover KBB's two Subaru models on the list: the 2025 Subaru Forester and the 2025 Subaru Outback. I'll explain why they are not only the best for snow but also why they offer the best value, ensuring you get the most for your money. 

In alphabetical order, here are KBB's twelve best new mainstream (non-luxury) SUVs for snow driving this year.

• 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe - $63,495
• 2025 Ford Bronco Sport - $36,580
• 2025 Honda CR-V - $35,200
• 2025 Hyundai Kona - $28,595
• 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee - $42,625
• 2025 Kia Telluride - $45,185
• 2025 Subaru Forester - $33,415 
• 2025 Subaru Outback - $32,615

What does KBB say about the 2025 Forester compact SUV?

• Best Value for Snow: $33,415 | Premium 
• Starting Price w/AWD: $31,115 | Expert Rating: 4.4
• IIHS Rating: Top Safety Pick (2024)

KBB says, "Every Subaru Forester boasts standard AWD with impressive ground clearance (8.7 inches). LED adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, automatic climate control, a rearview camera washer, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking are included."

"You must move up to the Premium trim to qualify for blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Also included in the Premium are fog lights, windshield wiper de-icer, heated front seats, and heated outboard mirrors. We think moving up is worth it. A 182-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine sends its output to the wheels via an automatic transmission (CVT)."

What does KBB say about the 2025 Outback midsize SUV?

• Best Value for Snow: $32,615 | Premium
• Starting Price: $30,315 | Expert Rating: 4.6
• IIHS Rating: Top Safety Pick

KBB says, "Every Subaru Outback comes right out of the box with AWD as standard, along with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. That's what makes this a great — and the best — car for snow." 

"Included are a snow/mud X-Mode transmission setting, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive LED headlights, and automatic high beams. We recommend stepping up to the Premium grade to gain heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer, LED fog lights, and automatic climate control. Move up to the Limited grade for heated rear seats."

"A blind-spot monitor, rear-cross traffic alert, and other goodies are in a Premium trim option package ($1,400). A 182-hp flat 4-cylinder engine uses a CVT to usher power to the wheels."

The best value picks.

Subaru Forester and Outback are the best value picks. The Forester is a compact SUV, while the Outback is a midsize SUV. Both models offer excellent value for snow driving, with the Outback being slightly more affordable and the Forester offering a bit more cargo space.

Don't forget about the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek

Except for the Hyundai Kona, the smallest SUV, the Forester and Outback are the least expensive 2025 models on the list. If you are considering a small SUV, you should check out the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek. Read my report here on why it's the best subcompact SUV you can buy.

The Forester Premium trim and Outback Premium trims are the best value for severe weather and driving in deep snow and icy conditions. However, if you can spend more, consider the Forester Sport ($35,890) and Outback Onyx Edition ($37,500) trim levels. 

They come with the upgraded dual-function X-Mode, which includes a Deep Snow / Mud setting. 

Forester and Outback Wilderness

However, consider the Forester Wilderness and Outback Wilderness trim levels if you want to go off-road. Wilderness models come with dual-function X-Mode and also include Low Speed / Low Ratio Gradient Control.

Why does Subaru have two of the top eight bestrew 2025 model year SUVs for winter driving?

Subaru Outback and Forester are made for severe weather. Subaru developed the Symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology over 50 years ago. They have been improving and perfecting it ever since. Check out my report here for more information. 

If you want to avoid sitting in a ditch waiting for a tow truck this winter, all Subaru vehicles, except for the BRZ, have the Japanese automaker's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive tech. 

Don't forget about your tires this winter. 

Check out my report on the best snow and all-weather winter tires for your Subaru SUV for instant bolt-on traction. 

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Subaru