Stringent Snow Driving: Which is Better, Car or Truck?
When snow storms became an inseparable part of my daily commute, I often witnessed the struggles faced by those driving big 4x4 trucks, while my little car kept chugging along. The issue doesn't lie in the vehicle itself but in how it is used.
Adaptability with Snow Tires
Cars equipped with four snow tires perform exceptionally well, even if they are from the 1970s with rear-wheel drive (RWD). However, these vehicles usually benefit from added weight on the rear wheels for better control.
Front-wheel drive (FWD) cars with snow tires are sufficient. All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles, though convenient for not having to change to snow tires for the season, are often over-hyped. Snow tires remain the best solution, providing an extra layer of safety. AWD trucks with snow tires are ideal for navigating through the remaining 1% of challenging winter conditions.
Driving a Pickup Truck in Snow
Pickup trucks are often cited and admired for their part-time 4WD capabilities and clearance. They can be great due to their improved traction and space. However, driving a pickup truck in snow requires a different approach and skill set.
Pickup trucks, with their long wheel base and light unladen cargo bed, can become tricky to handle in snowy conditions. This is because their lightweight and stiff suspension can cause unexpected behavior, such as yaw spin. As a result, quick countersteering becomes necessary, and drivers must be prepared to slow down and increase braking distance in curves, especially during poor weather.
The delicate balance maintained by these trucks in snow can be easily disrupted, leading to spins and potential rollovers if drivers are not cautious. It's easy for the inexperienced driver to become overly confident in the truck's ability to handle snow, but the reality is that even AWD trucks can lose traction and slide if driven too fast, especially in curves.
The Importance of Snow Tires
Proper tire selection is crucial in snowy conditions. Snow tires, also known as winter tires, can make a significant difference. A car or pickup truck equipped with four winter tires has a 99% chance of getting you through the winter. A pickup truck with AWD and winter tires can handle the final 1% of challenging conditions.
Over my 46 years of driving in western Canada, which includes Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan, I've experienced the brutal cold, deep snow, and ice firsthand. Regardless of whether you drive a pickup or a car, a good set of winter tires on all four wheels is essential. Additional weight over the back axle and AWD can further enhance a pickup truck's performance, just as they would for a car.
Despite the advantages of pickup trucks in snow, several front-wheel-drive cars with winter tires have performed well, making it clear that it's not just about the type of vehicle. Adaptation to the driving conditions is key. End up in a snow bank, and it's a choice made by the driver. Safe travels and stay vigilant.