For the average driver, picking a vehicle means looking at things like specs, special features, and fuel economy. However, if the area where you live gets a lot of snow and ice during the coldest months of the year, picking a vehicle means looking for something capable of handling such a rough setting on a daily basis. You could always go with SUVs and even pickup trucks that are decked out with cold-weather-resilient features, but what if you'd prefer to drive a car?

For the most part, trying to use a regular car in harsh driving conditions will have you at the repair shop more than you want to be. The good news is, modern vehicles in every form are being built to better cater to drivers like you who prefer a car and live in not-so-fair weather places. Whether you're looking for a car from a Nissan repair shop or a local dealer, here are a few features to look for in a car that is capable of handling the snow and ice just as good as any larger vehicle.

All-Wheel Drive

You no longer have to have an SUV or truck to get that insanely reliable traction control you need when the roads get slick because of snow and ice. There are several different cars that now are outfitted with all-wheel drive that automatically gives you traction when roadway surfaces change. These cars can handle deep snow with slow-rotating four-wheel drive if necessary or designate all traction to one primary wheel during a spin-out.

Adaptive Suspension

Most regular cars don't have the suspension to handle major diversity with rough terrains, but there are some car models that do have an adaptive suspension system. Coil springs, shocks, and struts (when equipped) with these vehicles are all built for the rough and tumble that can come along with winter driving conditions much like the off-road vehicles that are more reliable on rough terrain.

Higher Undercarriage Clearance

Take a traditional car through piles of snow and ice and you will end up either stuck or with a lot of damage to the undercarriage of your vehicle and even lower engine components. This is why modern cars designed to handle cold-weather travel will have a higher stance and an undercarriage that gives you more space between it and the ground. Not only will the car be slightly taller, you may also spot taller wheels and tires, a bumper that does not reach far below the grill, and other features.

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