6 Cheap Used Cars and SUVs That Can Trudge Through the Snow for Under $10,000
Driving your car in the snow takes some skill and a lot of patience, but it also helps to have a car with an all-wheel drive system. However, many new and slightly used cars with an AWD system are pricey. For anyone on a strict budget, here are six cheap used AWD cars and SUVs that can be found for less than $10,000.
1. 2008 Cadillac CTS
Just because a Cadillac is luxurious, it doesn’t mean it can’t be a workhorse when driving the car in the snow. If you’re looking for a cheap used luxury car, we recommend the 2008 Cadillac CTS. The CTS is sporty, so you won’t be crawling over crazy snow banks with it. But it can easily fit five adults comfortably, and it has a V6 engine and AWD system that can make quick work of slippery surfaces. The CTS also has a pop-up navigation screen, a premium audio system, and heated leather seats for added comfort.
2. 2005 Honda CR-V
The 2005 Honda CR-V isn’t the most lavish car on this list, but it gets the job done when it comes to driving a car in the snow. Nearly every 2005 model we found had well over 100,000 miles on the odometer, but they were also listed for far less than $10,000. Fortunately, the CR-V is a Honda, so whichever one you choose should run well for years without too many issues. Just make sure to get an AWD model.
3. 2008 Ford Taurus
The 2008 Ford Taurus will obviously be less luxurious than the Cadillac CTS and less capable than an SUV. However, the Taurus is ready to hit the snowy roads with its own charm. CarGurus notes that the 2008 Taurus is based on the former Ford Five Hundred, and the Limited came with a V6, an automatic transmission, generous seating for five, and a large trunk. Best of all, we found many examples selling for less than $10,000. Just be warned that they all had over 100,000 miles on the odometer.
4. 2010 Mazda CX-7
Once upon a time, the Mazda CX-7 provided a sporty alternative to other small SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Fortunately, you can relive the magic of the CX-7 for less than $10,000. We recommend hunting down an up-level trim model with the turbocharged 2.3-liter engine that puts out 244 hp and the AWD system. That way, you can experience the Mazda CX-7’s glory when the roads are clear and get to where you need to go when you’re forced to drive the car in the snow.
5. 2009 Pontiac Vibe
No, Pontiac isn’t around anymore, but it still has a Vibe. Dad jokes aside, the 2009 Vibe does have SUV-like utility combined with compact car agility. It shares its platform with the Toyota Matrix, so it’s built to last. It also comes with a 115-volt outlet so you can blow dry your hair while driving, in addition to all the basic necessities. Oh yeah, it has an AWD system, too, and we recommend finding one with the more powerful 2.4-liter engine.
6. 2010 Dodge Journey
The 2010 Dodge Journey is a great alternative to a minivan. Some Journey models were available with a third-row seat, so we recommend finding one of those if you need more seating space. The Journey was also available with a V6 engine and remote start, which is great for the wintertime. Additionally, if you need to tow something, the Journey is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds.
These cheap used cars will get you through the snow
Just because the snow is falling from the sky, it doesn’t mean you need to spend an arm and a leg for a car. These cheap used cars can get you from point A to B easily during the wintertime without breaking your ultra-low budget.
