Can you recommend a small 4x4 for use on snow-covered roads?

I live on a hill and my drive is very steep. I did have a BMW X3 which was great in the snow but I foolishly sold it last year for a BMW 1 Series thinking I did not need such a big car. With the big freeze, the 1 Series was absolutely hopeless and almost impossible to get out of our drive and to manipulate our hilly road. I now wish to buy another 4x4 before the winter but do not want such a big car as the X3. What would you suggest?

Asked on 4 September 2011 by SM, Guildford

Answered by Honest John

A BMW 1 Series on winter tyres will cope better with snow than a 4WD on summer tyres, but a 4WD on winter tyres will be better still. Be aware that not all SUVs are four wheel-drive. You have to make sure you order one that does have 4WD. Yes, there's a new Audi Q3 on the way: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/audi/q3-2011. And the Range Rover Evoque: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/land-rover/range-rov...1.

The Yeti 1.8TSI 160 AWD is the best Yeti, and its previous poor fuel economy has now been improved. The Tiguan has just been facelifted and is nicer than it was with better ride quality on sensible wheels. Its great rival is the Ford Kuga. Slightly bigger alternatives include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Land Rover Freelander 2 and, best of the lot, the BMW F25 X3. Smaller alternatives include the Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.4 D-4D AWD and the MINI Countryman All 4.

Tags: suvs 4x4s winter tyres driving in snow winter

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