If you live in a snowy part of the country like Vermont, getting a Mazda can be a smart choice — not just because it’s fun to drive, but because many Mazda models are built with features that genuinely help in winter weather. If you are looking for a car right now to better handle your daily commute or if you are simply doing research so that you are better prepared for next Winter, we’re here to help! Here’s why you may want to consider a Mazda for your next winter ride…
❄️ 1. Advanced All-Wheel Drive for Snow & Ice
Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD system is one of its biggest advantages in snow:
- It constantly monitors conditions like temperature, throttle, steering angle, and even windshield wiper use to predict slippery roads and send power where it’s needed before traction is lost — not just react after slipping starts.
- That means better traction, stability, and confidence on snow-covered streets, hills, or icy ramps.
- Mazda includes this system as standard on many SUVs and available on sedans/hatchbacks, so you don’t have to pay extra for winter-ready capability.
❄️ 2. Better Control in Slippery Turns
Along with AWD, Mazda uses G-Vectoring Control and G-Vectoring Control Plus, which subtly adjust torque and weight transfer to keep the vehicle more stable through turns — especially useful on slushy roads.
❄️ 3. Useful Features for Cold Weather Comfort & Safety
Mazdas often offer winter comfort and safety upgrades that make snowy days easier and safer, such as:
- Heated seats, heated steering wheel, and heated mirrors
- Remote start (to warm up before you go)
- Adaptive headlights and defrosting systems for bad visibility
These don’t directly improve traction, but they make a big difference in real winter weather.
⚠️ Bonus: Tires Still Matter
Even with great AWD tech, snow or winter tires are critical for traction, braking, and steering in cold, icy conditions. AWD helps with getting moving and staying stable, but stopping and turning depend heavily on your tires. Drive safe out there!
Want some firsthand accounts on Mazda’s snow supremacy? Click the link below and see what the Mazda Ice Academy is all about! Mazda’s Ice Academy was designed to showcase the unique capabilities of its i-Activ AWD system. Scott Evans with MotorTrend goes a bit more in depth on his experience with various Mazda vehicles and how the i-ACTIV AWD system works. Here’s a fun blurb…
“Most people wouldn’t consider a rear-wheel-drive, convertible sports car to be a good winter vehicle, but most people don’t drive Miatas. Fitted with Bridgestone Blizzak winter tires, the Miata was perfectly capable of handling snowy conditions. Moreover, if you’re a driving enthusiast, the Miata’s natural handling balance and predictable, controllable behavior at and beyond the limit of grip make it an absolute joy to drive spiritedly in low-grip situations”
https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/3-things-learned-mazda-awd-ice-academy
If you would like more information about anything you have read here, please do not hesitate to give us a call at (802)660-6900. We are happy to help! Thank you and we hope you drive safe this winter.
