What Makes a Great Winter Vehicle?

Best for Families: 2018 Kia Sorento — $11,999 (Waukegan)

With just 76,686 miles, this is one of the lowest-mileage SUVs on our lot. The third-generation Sorento earned strong safety ratings and offers available third-row seating, making it ideal for Lake County families. At under 77,000 miles, it sits in the sweet spot for price-to-mileage value. From school drop-offs to grocery runs in Waukegan winters, it has the space and reliability families need.

Best Low-Mileage Value: 2015 Mazda CX-5 — $15,999 (Waukegan)

With only 59,499 miles, this is the lowest-mileage SUV in our featured inventory. The CX-5 is known for sharp handling, and the Grand Touring trim is well-equipped. Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD system adjusts torque before wheels lose traction, which is a big advantage in lake-effect snow. It’s a premium-feeling compact SUV with long life ahead.

Best Luxury Pick: 2019 BMW X3 — $14,999 (Joliet)

This X3 has 97,007 miles and delivers luxury with real winter capability. BMW’s xDrive system provides confident traction, while heated seats and steering wheel add cold-weather comfort. Originally priced above $40,000, it now offers upscale value under $15,000. A smart pick for professionals who want refinement and performance.

Best Luxury on a Budget: 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC — $9,999 (Joliet)

Finding a Mercedes with AWD under $10,000 is rare. This GLC 300 has 160,170 miles but is built for longevity with proper maintenance. The 4MATIC system continuously adjusts power for steady handling on snow and ice. It’s affordable luxury with true winter confidence.

Best Budget AWD: 2015 Kia Sorento — $6,999 (Elgin)

At under $7,000, this AWD-capable Sorento is one of the most affordable winter-ready SUVs available. With 139,256 miles, it’s known for solid reliability and manageable maintenance costs. Estimated at $103 per month, it’s a practical option for budget-conscious buyers who still need traction and space.

Best Compact Crossover: 2016 Hyundai Tucson — $9,999 (Crestwood)

This Tucson has 112,221 miles and represents a major step up in quality from earlier generations. Its AWD system works well with its lighter weight, making it agile in city snow and steady on highways. A strong fit for south suburban drivers navigating winter traffic.

Best All-Rounder: 2014 Honda CR-V — $11,999 (Waukegan)

With 92,838 miles, this CR-V combines Honda reliability with proven Real Time AWD performance. It’s one of the Midwest’s most trusted winter SUVs. Strong resale value, good fuel economy, and practical cargo space make it a balanced choice.

Best Value CR-V: 2010 Honda CR-V — $8,999 (Crestwood)

This EX-L trim adds leather seating and comfort features at a lower price point. With 140,222 miles, it reflects the long-lasting reputation of this generation. Estimated at $132 per month, it’s dependable winter transportation without stretching your budget.

Best AWD Sedan: 2015 BMW 3 Series — $6,999 (Crestwood)

SUVs aren’t the only winter solution. This 328i xDrive delivers balanced weight distribution and confident AWD performance. With 160,867 miles and a $6,999 price tag, it offers luxury sedan driving at crossover pricing. Add winter tires and it’s ready for Chicago snow.

Best Mid-Size SUV: 2020 GMC Terrain — $12,999 (Elgin)

As one of the newest models listed, this Terrain offers updated safety tech and a refined ride. With 134,053 miles, it blends modern features with winter capability. Estimated at $191 per month, it’s a solid mid-range option.

Best Budget Mid-Size: 2017 GMC Terrain — $7,999 (Elgin)

This 2017 Terrain delivers similar capability at a lower cost. With 143,933 miles and leather seating, it offers comfort and practicality. Estimated at $118 per month, it’s a strong entry point for commuters facing winter highways.

Best Compact on a Budget: 2016 Kia Sportage — $7,999 (Crestwood)

With 126,814 miles, this Sportage balances efficiency and winter readiness. It’s compact enough for city parking but capable in snow and slush. At an estimated $118 per month, it’s affordable, practical transportation for the south suburbs.

AWD vs. 4WD: Which Do Chicago Drivers Actually Need?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer depends on how and where you drive.

AWD is always on or activates automatically. It distributes power to all four wheels continuously, adjusting torque based on traction. AWD is ideal for city and suburban driving on snowy or icy roads. Most crossovers and SUVs on our lot use AWD systems. If you commute on expressways, drive on plowed streets, and occasionally deal with unplowed side roads, AWD is the right choice.

4WD is typically a part-time system that you engage manually or with a switch. It locks power distribution 50/50 between the front and rear axles, providing maximum traction in deep snow, mud, and off-road conditions. Trucks and full-size SUVs like the Silverado on our lot use 4WD. If you regularly drive on rural roads, deal with heavy snow accumulation, or need to tow in winter conditions, 4WD gives you more capability.