Looking for used cars for sale that can handle winter drives? The good news is that there are a number of capable secondhand cars that can handle your drives no matter what mother nature throws at you. Here, we have assembled five of the most capable used cars that are ideal for the winter season.

Criteria for inclusion in the list

So how did we compile this list? Well, we wanted to make sure that each of the vehicles included offer at least an all-wheel-drive option, are easy to find at more used car dealerships and have a reputation for reliability in winter driving situations. With that in mind, here is the list below.

Best used cars for winter driving

1). Dacia Duster

If you are on a tight budget, you may be thinking that a winter capable SUV is out of the question. However, the compact Dacia Duster gives you that SUV body style at an incredible bargain. That includes more than 200 mm of ground clearance. Also, if you look above the entry level Access trim, you can find models with four-wheel drive.

Step inside the Duster and you will find a generous amount of space for a vehicle of its size. Also, the HVAC system is more than capable of keeping you and your passengers toasty during the harshest winter drives.

2). BMW 3 Series Touring Estate

If you want some luxury and affordability with your winter drive, then the BMW 3 Series Touring Estate is your vehicle of choice. Look for the xDrive version of the 3 Series Touring Estate for four-wheel-drive.

Inside the 3 Series Touring Estate offers lots of comfort and space behind the second row. This is an ideal vehicle for long winter drives that can take all of your baggage with you without crowding up your fellow passengers.

3). Subaru Outback Estate

When it comes to high ground clearance, in a small SUV, then the Outback Estate is your SUV of choice. The Outback Estate also comes standard with Symmetrical All Wheel Drive to give you a sure footed driving experience.

Inside the Outback Estate, you will find ample headroom and legroom. There is also excellent space behind the second road. The HVAC system is also excellent enough during the winter months. Overall, a great choice for a small family.

4). Mazda3 Hatchback

If you are looking for something compact, affordable and stylish, then a used Mazda3 hatchback is likely to fit your taste and your budget. In order to get all-wheel-drive, you will have to look for the top GT-Sport Tech trim level. However, you will still pay far less than you would for many other used vehicles that come with an all wheel drive system. Finally, the Mazda3 hatchback offers excellent fuel efficiency for those on a budget.

On the inside, the Mazda3 is smartly designed with materials that are more upscale than its price. The only downside is that this vehicle is a tight fit for second row passengers. Therefore, the Mazda3 hatchback is only recommended for single drivers, couples and families with small children.

5). Suzuki Swift Hatchback

When you want a top winter secondhand car that will give you the best fuel savings and a low price, then you will want to look for a Suzuki Swift Hatchback. This compact selection is available with its ALLGRIP system. That makes it one of the few vehicles in its class with a four-wheel-drive system.

The interior of the Swift Hatchback is not the most generous on the list. However, this vehicle is an ideal choice for single drivers or couples. Also, the hatchback allows for a little extra storage versus saloons and coupes in its class.

Finding the best used car for your winter drives

You should be able to find at least one example of each of these top winter used cars in your area. Be sure to check out each vehicle for yourself before making a final purchasing decision. No matter which top used winter car that you choose, you find yourself with a winner.