The Best SUVs for Winter Driving in the Yukon
Any Yukon driver can tell you how important it is to own a winter-ready vehicle when it comes to life in the Canadian North. Gale-force winds, massive snowdrifts and icy roads are just a few of the challenging conditions you’re likely to face during your daily commute. Fortunately, you can find the Yukon’s best lineup of snow-crushing SUVs right here at Whitehorse Toyota! Let’s take a look at what it takes to be considered one of Canada’s best SUVs for winter driving, and which of our Toyotas are up to the challenge.
Winter-Ready SUV Must-Haves
So which features are essential for a confident and comfortable winter driving experience?
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All-wheel drive / 4X4 capabilities for improved handling
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Ample ground clearance to plow through high snowdrifts
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Winter tires, installed once temperatures dip below 7-degrees
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Heated seats and steering wheel
We would add that a few nice-to-haves include remote start, selectable drive modes, versatile interior space, and towing capacity - you know, for hauling your toys into the Tundra for some winter fun!
Toyota SUVs Built for Life in the Yukon
“Our first pick (for best-selling winter SUV) is the Toyota RAV4. It’s equipped with standard heated seats, and offers premium comfort and capability for all your winter driving needs. Along with excellent handling and comfort, the Toyota RAV4 features exceptional cargo space. It’s no wonder Canadians are going all out and buying so many.”
Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 is Canada’s best-selling SUV for a reason, offering everything from our ‘winter essentials’ and ‘nice-to-haves’ lists for an unbeatable price. With year-round dependability, plenty of versatility and more standard safety features than you can shake a snow brush at, the RAV4 is primed and ready to be your BFF for winter driving in the Yukon.
Toyota Venza
The newly redesigned Venza has joined the Toyota lineup as an ultra-luxurious Hybrid, giving Whitehorse drivers top-of-the-line tech, comfort and fuel economy. It also boasts electronic on-demand all-wheel drive and a mighty 219-hp under the hood, giving you the power to take on Whitehorse’s worst winter weather without breaking the bank.
“On the drive home from Steinbach to Winnipeg in the new (Venza), the highway handling exceeded my expectations, demonstrating a well tuned suspension.”
“A car full of technologies and comfort, the Canadian version (Venza) Limited trim is fully loaded… another choice for RAV4 buyers!”
Toyota 4Runner
The mighty Toyota 4Runner is a Whitehorse favourite, offering exceptional ground clearance, plenty of interior space and a beefy 5,000-lb maximum towing capacity - more than enough to confidently haul your toys or a small RV. With plenty of advanced off-roading capabilities and driver-assist tech, the 4Runner is a natural choice for winter driving in the Yukon.
Toyota Sienna
Adding a minivan to our list of the Yukon’s best winter SUVs? Yeah - we went there! Whatever you want to call it, this 8-seater can take on just about any SUV in the Tundra. With AWD, a standard hybrid engine and a new race-track inspired platform, Sienna delivers exceptional handling and top-notch fuel economy. Plus, it’s fully loaded with heated everything, and a long list of convenience features that the whole family will love.
“We are more than pleased with our purchase. This van (Sienna) has everything we can ask for. Hybrid, AWD, comfort, quality and proven technology are things we wanted and got.”
Prepare for the Unexpected at the Whitehorse Toyota Service Centre
No matter which SUV you drive, prepare for the Yukon’s changing seasons with regular maintenance and repair services at the Whitehorse Toyota Service Centre. We recommend promptly installing your winter and summer tires as the weather allows, and keeping up with your vehicle’s maintenance schedule to ensure your Toyota continues to function its best for years to come. Our technicians are Toyota Certified, and well-known across the Yukon for providing trustworthy vehicle services.
Still have questions about which Toyota SUV is best for your winter driving needs? Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Whitehorse Toyota team! We can help you find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle and budget - and we promise that you won’t find a better vehicle for winter driving in the Yukon anywhere else!
