Northeast Ohio drivers face the harsh reality of lake-effect snow that can dump several feet overnight, making morning commutes scary. When ice coats Cleveland's notorious Dead Man's Curve or you're stuck on Boardman's snow-covered streets, the right SUV is a necessity. Our winter experts at Boardman Mitsubishi compiled this guide to help you find used SUVs that'll handle our area's tough winter conditions, from slick spots on Route 11 to the snow piles along I-680.
What Makes an SUV Winter-Ready? (All-Wheel Drive, Tires, Clearance)
Let's talk drivetrains. Front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) both have their pros and cons in snow. All-wheel-drive (AWD) systems automatically power all four wheels when you need traction, while four-wheel drive (4WD) requires manual activation. Part-time AWD runs in two-wheel drive (2WD) most of the time to save gas — AWD automatically kicks in when wheels start slipping. AWD is more convenient and safer than 4WD for daily winter driving when conditions constantly change.
Ground clearance is crucial for winter driving. AWD SUVs handle snow better than AWD cars mainly because they're higher off the ground, this allows you to push through deeper snow. For example, the Kia Telluride has up to 8.4 inches of clearance, which makes a difference in unplowed parking lots.
Safety tech has changed winter driving. Since 2013, all passenger vehicles must have traction control, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. These systems stop wheel spin, stabilize you during sudden moves, and prevent brake lockup on slippery roads. Features such as rain-sensing wipers and blind-spot alerts give you added visibility during our wild winter weather.
Mitsubishi Standouts: Outlander, Outlander Sport, Eclipse Cross
Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel-Control (S-AWC) system improves AWD by distributing power between front-to-back and side-to-side wheels. The Outlander offers multiple drive settings, such as the Snow mode, perfect for Northeast Ohio's winters. This tech helps avoid traction problems, giving you better control on icy morning drives.
The 2025 Eclipse Cross SEL Touring AWD comes with heated back seats, power folding mirrors, and a head-up display that competitors such as the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Mazda CX-5 don't offer. The Eclipse Cross earned five-star Overall Safety Ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for high performance in crash testing.
For budget-conscious shoppers, the Outlander Sport gives you Mitsubishi's AWD tech without breaking your budget, and some used models include the S-AWC system. These SUVs can handle anything from sudden freezes to black ice and thick, wet snow.
Feature Checklist for AWD Used SUVs in Ohio
Some features are imperative for Northeast Ohio winters. Your safety checklist should include AWD or 4WD, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes, and at least 8 inches of ground clearance. Driver-assist features such as hill-start assist that stops you from rolling back on icy slopes, downhill assist that controls speed on slippery hills, and various drive modes, especially Snow mode, are also important.
Comfort affects safety, with 70% of cold-climate drivers putting heated seats at the top of their wish list. Remote start lets you warm the car before leaving your house, with newer models offering smartphone control. Heated steering wheels mean no more driving with gloves, and some turn on automatically when temperatures drop.
Rain-sensing wipers adapt to changing snow and sleet, while auto headlights turn on during gray winter days. LED lights cut through snow and fog, heated windshields prevent ice buildup, and headlight washers keep snow from blocking your lights.
How To Test Winter Performance on a Test-Drive
Start with a thorough check before driving. Inspect tire tread depth — 2/32 inch is the legal minimum, but deeper is better for snow. Check for rust and damage, especially in wheel wells and door bottoms, where salt attacks first. Look for signs of repainting and check the undercarriage for leaks and damage from salt. Test the heating systems — seats, steering wheel, mirrors, and defrosters.
On your test-drive, focus on the AWD system by starting on small hills to see if it kicks in smoothly. Listen for strange noises or vibrations that may signal problems, and be aware of warning signs such as grinding sounds during turns, bucking when cornering, or fluid leaks near the transfer case. If you're unsure, consider a prepurchase scan to find AWD issues — it's worth the investment.
Test brakes on different surfaces, making sure ABS works and is consistent. Check steering at various speeds and test stability systems if possible. Ensure you have good visibility through all windows and in mirrors. Don't forget to check remote start.
Ownership Tips for Ohio Winters
Follow our winter SUV checklist to ensure your safety on the road. Road salt with rain creates a nasty combo that corrodes metal in wheel arches, the undercarriage, and door frames. Remove salt and grime by washing your car monthly, at least, and more often in wet weather. Have regular underbody washes and check for early signs of rust. Consider applying rust inhibitors to block moisture and corrosion.
Regular maintenance is crucial in winter as our area sees near-blizzard conditions with temps around 30 F, over 40 mph winds, and 2-6 inches of snow downwind of Lake Erie. Cold can cut battery power by half, making dead batteries likely on cold mornings. Lake-effect snow can drop over 2 feet on average, with some areas getting 3 feet with a possible 6 feet.
Black ice typically forms between 3 a.m. and 8 a.m. when temps bottom out, especially on bridges and shaded areas such as Dead Man's Curve, Shoreway bridges near E. 55th, Edgewater Park, and the Valley View Bridge on I-480. Keep an emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, sand/kitty litter for traction, and basic tools. Learn proper warm-up procedures for extreme cold and find safe parking spots during multi-day storms.
Your Winter-Ready SUV Awaits in Boardman
Finding your ideal used SUV for Northeast Ohio winters means focusing on the features we've covered — from Mitsubishi's S-AWC in winter to heated seats and rain-sensing wipers.
If you want to find your perfect winter companion, Boardman Mitsubishi understands your requirements. Visit our dealership, and we'll show you our lineup of winter-ready used SUVs and advise you on financing options. When you're ready, contact us to arrange a test-drive of your preferred vehicle — we'll be happy to assist you.