Top 5 SUVs for Surviving Wisconsin Winters [2025 Edition]

Wisconsin winters are no joke. Between heavy snow, icy roads, and freezing temperatures, drivers need a vehicle that’s as tough as the weather. Whether you’re commuting through snow-covered city streets, tackling rural backroads, or heading north for a weekend getaway, the right SUV can make all the difference. For 2025, Chevrolet and GMC offer a strong lineup of winter-ready options designed to keep you safe, comfortable, and in control—even when the forecast is at its worst.

The 2025 GMC Yukon is at the top of the list for those who need maximum capability in every season. With available four-wheel drive, strong engine choices, and advanced traction systems, the Yukon is built for confidence on slick, snowy roads. Its size and weight help it grip the pavement when conditions turn treacherous, while features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and advanced driver-assistance technology add comfort and safety. The Yukon is perfect for families who need space and strength without compromising winter performance.

Right alongside the Yukon is the 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe, another full-size SUV that thrives in winter. The Tahoe offers rugged trims like the Z71, which include features such as skid plates, tow hooks, and an upgraded suspension to handle deep snow or icy trails. New engine options and refined suspension technology make the Tahoe both powerful and smooth, while winter comfort features—like heated seating and a strong defrosting system—keep everyone warm inside. It’s a big SUV, but for many Wisconsin drivers, that size translates to the confidence and stability needed in harsh conditions.

Not every driver wants or needs a full-size SUV, and that’s where the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox shines. Redesigned for this year, the Equinox is nimble, efficient, and packed with comfort features that make winter driving easier. With available all-wheel drive, improved safety systems, and heated interior options, the Equinox is built for everyday reliability in snow and ice. It may not have the ground clearance of a Tahoe or Yukon, but it’s more than capable of handling typical Wisconsin winter commutes, especially when equipped with proper snow tires.

The 2025 GMC Terrain offers a smaller, more maneuverable option for those who want capability without the bulk of a large SUV. With available all-wheel drive and plenty of advanced driver-assist features, the Terrain makes navigating slippery roads more manageable. Heated seats and mirrors, strong visibility, and solid winter comfort features help it hold its own when the temperatures drop. While it doesn’t have the muscle of its bigger GMC and Chevrolet siblings, the Terrain is a smart choice for drivers who prioritize efficiency and convenience while still needing winter confidence.

Rounding out the list is the newly updated 2025 Chevrolet Traverse. This midsize SUV strikes a balance between the massive Yukon or Tahoe and the compact Equinox or Terrain. With available all-wheel drive, a powerful V6 engine, and increased interior space, the Traverse is perfect for families who need three rows and winter dependability. It also offers heated seating, advanced infotainment, and driver-assist features, making it both a comfortable and capable companion for long Wisconsin winters.

For 2025, Chevrolet and GMC have put a strong focus on features that make winter driving less stressful. Many models now include adaptive suspensions that adjust for snow-packed roads, advanced four-wheel-drive systems with selectable modes for ice and snow, and comfort upgrades like heated steering wheels, rear heated seats, and all-weather floor liners. These touches combine rugged engineering with everyday livability, ensuring that no matter how cold or snowy it gets, you’ll stay in control and comfortable.

Even the best SUV can’t do all the work alone. For maximum safety and performance, pair your SUV with a good set of winter tires designed for snow and ice. Keep washer fluid topped off with a cold-weather blend, replace wipers before the season starts, and consider using an engine block heater for the coldest nights. It’s also smart to keep an emergency kit with items like a blanket, flashlight, shovel, and ice scraper in your vehicle.

From the rugged GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe to the practical Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, Chevrolet and GMC have a winter-ready SUV for every lifestyle and budget in 2025. Whether you need a powerful family hauler, a versatile commuter, or a compact crossover with just enough muscle for Midwest winters, you’ll find a dependable option at Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Lake Geneva.