Which type of drive has the best winter suitability?
- Front wheel drive - the front wheel drive offers high driving stability when accelerating on slippery roads. Front wheel drives show weakness when approaching inclines, especially when loaded.
- Rear wheel drive - vehicles with rear wheel drive can be started well on slopes even when loaded. It also provides better traction when traveling with a trailer or caravan. One of the biggest weaknesses of this type of drive is the rear wheels on a slippery road surface when accelerating tend to "break out". A few heavy sandbags in the trunk provides more stability and smoothness.
- All wheel drive - a permanent four wheel drive gives you a high driving stability even on smooth turns and good traction on slippery slopes. Four wheel drive is especially worthwhile in regions with extreme winter conditions, as the initial cost for these vehicles is often higher.
For driving in the winter, regardless of the type of drive, tires with good treads are a must. Vehicles equipped with an electronic skid protection (ESP) also offer more stability and traction, even with different grip surfaces!
TUV NORD Mobility Inc.
Suite 415, 708-11th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, AB, Canada
T2R 0E4