Best Kia SUV for Minnesota Winters

The Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento, both available with all-wheel drive, are among the best choices for Minnesota winters thanks to their AWD traction systems, solid ground clearance, and available heated comfort features. For drivers who want more rugged capability in a smaller, more affordable package, the Kia Seltos X-Line offers a higher stance and AWD specifically tuned for slippery conditions.

Best Kia SUVs for Winter: Quick Comparison

Does Kia AWD Actually Help in Snow?

Yes. Kia’s AWD systems automatically distribute power between the front and rear wheels based on available traction, which improves grip when accelerating or driving on snow and ice compared to a front-wheel-drive-only vehicle. AWD doesn’t replace winter tires, but it meaningfully improves handling and confidence in slippery conditions, particularly when accelerating from a stop on an unplowed street or navigating an icy parking lot.

Which Kia SUV Has the Most Ground Clearance?

The Telluride and Sorento offer higher ground clearance than Kia’s smaller crossovers, which helps when driving through deeper snow or navigating unplowed roads after a heavy storm. The Seltos, particularly in X-Line trim, also offers a taller stance relative to its compact size, giving it a meaningful edge over standard crossovers in its class without stepping up to a larger, pricier SUV.

What Winter Features Should I Look For?

Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors are commonly available across Kia’s SUV lineup and make a real, noticeable difference during Minnesota’s coldest months, especially on frigid morning commutes. Remote start, available on many trims, also lets you warm up the cabin and defrost the windshield before you even get in — a small feature that makes a big difference on a sub-zero morning.

Do I Still Need Winter Tires With AWD?

Yes. AWD improves acceleration traction, but dedicated winter tires provide significantly better braking and cornering grip on snow and ice than all-season tires, regardless of drivetrain. AWD helps you get moving; winter tires help you stop and turn — they solve different problems, and Minnesota winters really call for both. For the safest winter driving, pairing AWD with a proper set of winter tires is the strongest combination available.

How Does AWD Affect Fuel Economy in Winter?

AWD systems add weight and drivetrain complexity compared to front-wheel-drive versions of the same model, which typically results in somewhat lower fuel economy — a trade-off most Minnesota drivers consider well worth the added traction and confidence. Cold weather itself also reduces fuel economy across the board, regardless of drivetrain, due to factors like engine warm-up time and increased use of climate control systems.

Which Kia SUV Should You Choose for Winter?

• Seltos X-Line for a smaller, more affordable AWD option with a rugged stance.
• Sportage or Sorento AWD for a balance of size, ground clearance, and comfort features.
• Telluride for maximum space and ground clearance if you need three-row seating.

Kia Winter SUV FAQ

Is AWD standard on Kia SUVs or an added option?
AWD is generally an available option rather than standard equipment across most Kia SUV trims; confirm availability on the specific trim you’re considering.

Which Kia SUV is best for deep snow?
The Telluride, thanks to its higher ground clearance and available AWD, generally handles deeper snow better than Kia’s smaller crossovers.

Do I need snow tires if I have AWD?
AWD and winter tires solve different problems — AWD helps with acceleration traction, while winter tires improve braking and cornering grip. Using both together provides the best winter performance.

Is the Seltos good in snow despite being a smaller SUV?
Yes, especially in X-Line trim with available AWD, the Seltos offers solid winter capability in a smaller, more affordable package than Kia’s larger SUVs.

What Kia features help the most on cold mornings?
Remote start, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel are among the most appreciated features for Minnesota winter mornings.

Get Ready for Winter at Walser Kia

Visit Walser Kia in Minnetonka, MN to test drive our AWD lineup ahead of winter and ask about seasonal service specials, including tire and battery checks before the cold sets in.