Calgary’s winters can be harsh, with icy roads, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures creating challenging driving conditions. Choosing a vehicle with the right features can make all the difference in ensuring safety and comfort during winter. At Auto Avenue, we understand the unique needs of Calgary drivers, and we’re here to help you find the perfect car for winter driving. In this post, we’ll highlight five essential features for a safe winter vehicle.
1. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Traction is key when driving on snow-covered or icy roads. Vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) distributes power to all four wheels, improving grip and stability in slippery conditions. These systems provide better handling and reduce the likelihood of getting stuck in deep snow, making them essential for navigating Calgary’s winters.
Benefits of AWD/4WD:
- Enhanced traction on icy or snowy surfaces.
- Improved stability when driving on uneven terrain or steep hills.
- Increased confidence in adverse weather conditions.
2. Winter Tires or All-Season Tires
While not a built-in feature, ensuring your vehicle has winter tires is crucial for safe driving in Calgary’s cold weather. Winter tires are designed with specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns to provide superior grip in low temperatures and icy conditions. If your vehicle already has all-season tires, it’s important to verify they’re rated for winter driving (indicated by a snowflake symbol).
Benefits of Winter Tires:
- Shorter braking distances on icy roads.
- Improved handling in snow and slush.
- Better overall performance in temperatures below 7°C.
3. Heated Seats and Steering Wheel
Staying warm during Calgary’s freezing winters is essential for comfort and focus while driving. Heated seats and steering wheels provide quick warmth, making those cold early morning commutes much more bearable. These features are especially valuable for those who park their vehicles outdoors.
Why These Features Matter:
- Immediate warmth reduces the discomfort of sitting in a cold car.
- Keeps hands warm, improving grip and control of the steering wheel.
- Enhances overall driving comfort, even on the chilliest days.
4. Remote Start
A remote start system allows you to start your vehicle from inside your home or office, giving the engine time to warm up and defrost the windows before you get in. This is a game-changer for winter mornings in Calgary, as it ensures your car is warm and ready to go when you are.
Benefits of Remote Start:
- Saves time by defrosting windows and warming the cabin before driving.
- Prevents wear on the engine by allowing it to warm up properly.
- Adds a layer of convenience during cold weather.
5. Advanced Safety Features
Modern vehicles often come equipped with advanced safety features that are especially useful in winter conditions. Features like traction control, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and stability control enhance your vehicle’s ability to handle slippery roads. Additionally, blind-spot monitoring and rearview cameras can improve visibility in snow-covered areas.
Essential Safety Features for Winter:
- Traction Control: Reduces wheel spin when accelerating on slippery surfaces.
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain control.
- Stability Control: Helps keep the vehicle stable when cornering or swerving on icy roads.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot, improving safety in low-visibility conditions.
Explore Winter-Ready Vehicles at Auto Avenue
At Auto Avenue, we offer a wide selection of quality used vehicles equipped with the features you need for safe and comfortable winter driving. From AWD SUVs to cars with heated seats and remote start, we have something for everyone. Our team is here to help you find the perfect vehicle for Calgary’s winter conditions, ensuring you stay safe and confident on the road.
Visit Auto Avenue Today
Ready to find your winter-ready vehicle? Visit Auto Avenue at 1739 51 St SE, Calgary, or browse our inventory online. Our experienced staff is here to guide you through our selection of vehicles and ensure you drive away in a car that’s perfect for winter driving.