If you’ve ever taken the wrong car out in winter weather, you know how fast it goes from “this should be fine” to “I’m stuck.”
Electric vehicles aren’t immune to that feeling. Some have great specs but fall apart in the cold. Others lose so much range in freezing temps that you’re constantly hunting for chargers just to make it home.
That’s why we tested and ranked the best used AWD electric SUVs you can buy in 2025 — the ones that actually perform when the roads are slick, the temperature’s in the teens, and snow’s blowing sideways.
This guide skips the hype and gets straight to the real deal: which used EVs hold up in snow, ice, and freezing temperatures—and which don’t.
What Makes an EV Good in the Snow?
Forget marketing terms like “dual motor” or “snow mode.” What you really need is:
- Genuine AWD traction. Not just two motors, but a system that manages torque well and can keep you moving on packed snow or slush.
- Decent ground clearance. You don’t need a Jeep, but if you’re sitting too low, it won’t matter what drivetrain you have.
- Battery thermal management. Some older EVs freeze up—literally. A heat pump or active thermal system helps keep range and power consistent.
- Heated everything. Seats, steering wheel, mirrors, windshield defrost—these keep your drive safe and your fingers working.
- Winter-tested efficiency. Some EVs lose 35% of range in cold. The ones on this list hold more.
The 7 Best Used AWD EV SUVs for Snow and Ice in 2025
These are all proven in cold climates, rated by real owners and tested in actual winter conditions—not just specs.
1. 2020–2023 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
Why it works in snow:
Tesla’s AWD system is one of the best-tuned in the EV world. The Model Y keeps traction smartly even on icy curves, and the cabin warms up fast. You also get full Supercharger access, which matters when range drops in cold.
- Cold weather range: ~220–240 miles at 20°F
- Heat pump: Yes (standard on 2021+ models)
- Ground clearance: 6.6 inches
- Used price in 2025: $31K–$38K
Winter tip: Use Scheduled Departure to precondition the battery while still plugged in. Huge difference.
What We Think:
Still the most balanced used EV SUV on the market. Smart AWD, solid winter range, and better resale value than most competitors. Doesn’t get stuck. Doesn’t complain.
2. 2022–2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD
Why it works in snow:
The Ioniq 5 doesn’t look like a winter vehicle, but it handles snow like a pro. The dual-motor setup reacts quickly on ice, and the suspension handles rough, frozen roads better than expected.
- Cold weather range: ~200–225 miles
- Heat pump: Standard on AWD trims
- Ground clearance: 6.1 inches
- Used price in 2025: $33K–$36K
What We Think:
If you want something that’s roomy, warm, and shockingly competent in snow, this one delivers. Bonus: very fast charging even when temps drop.
3. 2021–2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E AWD (Select or Premium)
Why it works in snow:
The Mach-E isn’t marketed as a winter SUV, but Ford’s AWD system feels tight and composed in bad weather. It’s especially strong in deep slush or light snow trails.
- Cold weather range: 190–220 miles
- Heat pump: Only on California Route 1 or Premium trims
- Ground clearance: 5.7 inches
- Used price in 2025: $28K–$34K
What We Think:
Not the king of snow, but better than many assume. If you live in a city that gets snow dumps but not constant ice, the Mach-E handles itself well and keeps you warm.
4. 2022–2023 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD
Why it works in snow:
Kia gave the EV6 real-time torque vectoring, and it shows. The GT-Line trim is confident even on icy hills. Cabin heats quickly, and the battery doesn’t freak out when the mercury drops.
- Cold weather range: 200–230 miles
- Heat pump: Yes, on AWD trims
- Ground clearance: 6.1 inches
- Used price in 2025: $34K–$38K
What We Think:
Tuned for real drivers, not just commuters. If you want to take an EV into a snowy region and still enjoy the drive, this is a serious contender. Bonus: AWD on this car doesn’t wreck range like some others.
5. 2020–2022 Audi e-tron Quattro (Premium Plus)
Why it works in snow:
Audi built the e-tron with quattro DNA. This thing moves in snow like a tank—quiet, heavy, and planted. You lose more range than others, but in terms of traction and comfort, it’s near the top.
- Cold weather range: 170–200 miles
- Heat pump: Yes (standard)
- Ground clearance: Up to 7.8 inches with air suspension
- Used price in 2025: $29K–$35K
What We Think:
Great winter car for mountain towns or places where roads stay icy for weeks. Heavy, confident, and easy to control. Just know it’s not a long-range champ.
6. 2021–2022 Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro
Why it works in snow:
The ID.4’s AWD setup is subtle but effective. This isn’t a performance EV, but it drives like a car that was designed by people who live with winter.
- Cold weather range: ~190–210 miles
- Heat pump: Available on AWD trims (check individual listings)
- Ground clearance: 6.7 inches
- Used price in 2025: $26K–$31K
What We Think:
Surprisingly good in the cold. Not flashy. Not quick. But it handles slippery roads with minimal fuss, and it’s a very comfortable winter commuter.
7. 2022–2023 Subaru Solterra / Toyota bZ4X AWD (with heat pump)
Why it works in snow:
Subaru and Toyota tuned this platform for winter traction. Real-world drivers say it handles like an Outback with instant torque. That’s a compliment.
- Cold weather range: 180–210 miles (with heat pump)
- Heat pump: Optional—make sure it has one
- Ground clearance: 8.3 inches
- Used price in 2025: $28K–$34K
What We Think:
You’re not buying it for style or range—you’re buying it because it gets through unplowed roads and starts every morning when it’s 10 degrees out. It’s no-frills winter driving.
What to Avoid: EVs That Struggle in the Snow
These EVs either lack real AWD, have terrible cold-weather efficiency, or just can’t handle real winter conditions:
- Nissan Leaf (all models): No AWD, poor battery heating, terrible in snow.
- Chevy Bolt EUV: FWD only. Okay in mild weather, but not built for ice.
- Tesla Model 3 Standard Range (RWD): Slips and slides unless you add snow tires and weight.
- BMW i3: Forget it. RWD and short range make it a terrible winter option.
What We Think
If you’re living in a snowy state or doing regular trips through icy highways, your used EV needs more than just AWD on paper. It needs grip, cold-weather range, and cabin systems that warm up fast.
The Tesla Model Y is still the safest used EV bet for all-season driving, but don’t overlook the Ioniq 5 or Audi e-tron for true winter confidence. Subaru’s Solterra is a sleeper hit in mountain towns, and the Kia EV6 GT-Line is better on snow than you’d expect.
Whatever you buy, test it in the cold before you commit. And check for the heat pump—it’s worth it.
More real-world EV buyer guides coming soon at BidForAutos.com.
Want us to cover the best snow tires for EVs, or test used electric trucks in winter towing? Drop us a message and we’ll get on the road.
