Do I need a 4x4 car to cope with the winter roads?
Jay Foxton is worried about this winter’s severe weather forecasts, and wonders if an off-roader would make sense. He has £10,000 to spend.
A Car for the Head
Well, the sensible thing to do is invest in a set of winter tyres, which will transform the cold weather performance of any car. Jay probably doesn’t need full-time four-wheel drive either, but it can help in bad conditions if a vehicle’s system senses that extra traction is required because of icy and slippery roads. The Honda CR-V has been the nation’s favourite so-called soft-roader for some years now. It is comfortable, reliable and practical. About £8,000 would buy a well-equipped 2008 2.2i CTDi ES with a full history. This model also delivers decent 40mpg economy.
A Car for the Heart
Not everyone needs the ground clearance and bulk of a traditional 4x4. There are vehicles that have all-wheel drive, which are stylish and practical without all the unnecessary drama. Rather than go for an obvious Audi Quattro, I think Jay should consider a far better value Subaru Legacy. Here is a stylish estate car, which has permanent four-wheel drive. An SE Sports has a long list of standard equipment and, with the 2.0-litre diesel engine, it manages a decent 35mpg overall. Within budget, £8,000 buys a 2011 example with 70,000 miles.
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