As winter approaches in Upstate New York, many drivers begin looking for a vehicle that can handle snow, ice, and changing road conditions. A reliable used SUV with available or standard all-wheel drive can provide added confidence while staying within your budget.
Whether you're commuting to work, driving the kids to school, or heading to the Finger Lakes for a weekend getaway, choosing the right SUV before winter arrives can make all the difference.
At Stone Road Auto, we help drivers throughout Rochester, Webster, and the surrounding communities find dependable used SUVs built for every season. Here are some of the best used SUVs to consider before winter.
1. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is a favorite among New York drivers thanks to its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and excellent visibility.
Why It's Great for Winter:
Standard AWD
High ground clearance
Excellent safety ratings
Spacious cargo area
Proven reliability
Best for: Daily commuters and outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 combines reliability, fuel efficiency, and available AWD, making it one of the most popular SUVs for year-round driving.
Top Features:
Available AWD
Strong fuel economy
Comfortable ride
Excellent resale value
Best for: Families and commuters.
3. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is known for its comfortable ride, roomy interior, and dependable performance in a variety of driving conditions.
Highlights:
Best for: Families and everyday driving.
4. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 offers a premium interior and confident handling, making it a great option for drivers who want both comfort and capability.
Benefits:
Available AWD
Responsive handling
Advanced safety features
Upscale interior
Best for: Drivers who enjoy a refined driving experience.
5. Toyota Highlander
Need extra room? The Toyota Highlander offers available AWD, three-row seating on many models, and a reputation for long-term reliability.
Why Families Love It:
Available AWD
Seating for up to eight
Comfortable ride
Excellent reliability
Best for: Larger families and winter road trips.
What to Look for in a Winter SUV
When shopping before winter, consider more than just all-wheel drive.
Winter Tires
A quality set of winter tires can significantly improve traction on snow and ice.
Ground Clearance
Additional ground clearance can make it easier to drive through snow-covered roads.
Safety Features
Look for features like:
Electronic Stability Control
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control
Blind Spot Monitoring
Automatic Emergency Braking
Vehicle History
Review the vehicle history report and maintenance records to make sure the SUV has been well cared for.
Should You Buy Before Winter?
Many shoppers wait until the first snowfall to start looking for an SUV. However, shopping before winter often provides:
A larger selection of vehicles
More time to compare models
Less pressure to buy quickly
The opportunity to prepare your vehicle before snowy weather arrives
Planning ahead can help you find the right SUV before seasonal demand increases.
Find a Winter-Ready SUV at Stone Road Auto
At Stone Road Auto, we carry a variety of reliable used SUVs that are ready for Upstate New York winters. Whether you're looking for a compact crossover, a spacious family SUV, or an AWD vehicle for snowy roads, our team can help you find the right fit.
Browse our inventory online or visit our dealership today to explore our selection of winter-ready used SUVs.
