Skip to main content

Most sports cars are rear-wheel drive, but if you want to have fun during all four seasons, an all-wheel drive sports car is in order. Fortunately, there are AWD sports cars in the market that can handle whatever Mother Nature has to offer, even when the mercury drops. Check out six of the coolest new and used sports cars that you can drive when the snow falls.

1. Subaru WRX

Side view of orange 2022 Subaru WRX
2022 Subaru WRX | Subaru

If you’re looking for a sports sedan that you can drive all year, the Subaru WRX is hard to beat. It was redesigned for the 2022 model year and rides on a new platform, has more aggressive aesthetics, and pumps out 271 hp out of its turbocharged Boxer engine. The best part of its performance equation, however, is its Symmetrical AWD system that comes standard on every trim level.

2. Volkswagen Golf R

The Volkswagen Golf R is a solid contender for the best of hot hatches.
Volkswagen Golf R | Volkswagen

Some may think of the Volkswagen Golf R as the German version of the Subaru WRX – only in hatchback form. In actuality, the Golf R attacks the pavement all year ‘round in its own way. Under the hood is a turbocharged engine that pumps out 315 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

All of that power is routed through all four wheels via either a six-speed manual or 7-speed DSG transmission. But no matter which transmission you choose, you’ll be able to dash your way through the snow in a really fun fashion.

3. Audi TT RS

Audi TT RS
Audi TT RS | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

The Audi TT RS is the Volkswagen Golf R’s wild corporate cousin. This two-door coupe allows you to have fun the whole year thanks to its legendary Quattro AWD system. What makes it even better is its agile handling and potent 394-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, which surges the car to 60 mph from a standstill in less than 4 seconds. That’s quicker than Santa getting his reindeer up to speed.

4. Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS

A Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS rips around a track.
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS | Porsche

If you want an all-out sports car that can be driven in the snow, then the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS will give you what you need. The Carrera 4 GTS offers up a healthy dose of power with its 450-hp engine and puts it all down with an all-wheel-drivetrain via a manual or fast-shifting PDK transmission. According to Autobytel, “There are less-expensive 911s, but the GTS is the sweet spot for performance and everyday livability.”

5. Dodge Challenger GT

2022 Dodge Challenger GT RWD with HEMI® Orange appearance package
2022 Dodge Challenger GT RWD with HEMI® Orange appearance package | Stellantis

In case a small turbocharged sports cars aren’t your thing, the Dodge Challenger GT can give you a dose of all-American muscle with all-wheel drive grip. Unfortunately, you won’t find a HEMI V8 under its hood, but the V6 engine is potent enough to get the car moving quickly. In addition to performance, the Challenger provides a good amount of comfort with its dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, and large heated front seats.

6. Ford Focus RS

2018 Ford Focus RS
2018 Ford Focus RS | Jonathan Brady/PA Images via Getty Images

The Ford Focus RS can only be found on the used market, but it’s still a worthy entrant on this list. Under its hood is a 350-hp turbocharged engine that’s connected to a six-speed manual transmission. That power is transmitted to all four wheels thanks to a torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system. This powerful combination means plenty of fun on dry pavement and even more fun when the white stuff hits the ground.

Coolest winter sports cars

Just because there’s snow falling from the sky, it doesn’t mean that you can’t buy a sports car. While most of them are rear-wheel-drive, there are some all-wheel drive cars that can easily handle the elements during every season. If you’re in the market, these six cars are a good place to start.

Related

The Best Winter Tires for Your Car (Or Sports Car)