When summer ends, skiers start thinking about hitting the hills, and that means having to contend with winter driving conditions. Not just any vehicle is going to get the job done. We have evaluated several used ski-worthy vehicles, and narrowed our choices down to the Ford Focus ST, Audi SQ5, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, Land Rover Range Rover, and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon.
Ford Focus ST: This is a great little hatchback for the ski enthusiast. Although only available in front-wheel drive, the generous torque and limited-slip differential work to get you pretty much everywhere you need to be. It also has a fair bit of cargo space with the seats folded down, although you may want to add a roof rack for your skis.
Audi SQ5: The Audi SQ5 is a stylish combination of utility and performance, and a nice consolation prize for skiers who miss the perennially popular S4. With a supercharged V6 and 347 lb-ft of torque, along with substantial ground clearance, you’ll find this is a true performance rig. It also has lots of space for your gear.
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT: 5200 pounds of muscle, a 6.4 liter V8 and four wheel drive with 70% of the power going to the rear wheels mean that the Grand Cherokee SRT can handle just about anything winter can throw at you. 35.1 cubic feet of cargo space gives you all the room you need, and you’ll appreciate the heated seats during the winter months. This is the ultimate rig for any skier.
Land Rover Range Rover: The Range Rover combines utility, technology and luxury in one abundant package. It has all the extras, too, including heated seats and steering wheel. The Range Rover also features 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space. And with a 5.0 liter, supercharged V8 engine and enhanced aerodynamics, you’ll cruise to the slopes with ease and in comfort.
Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon: The E63 is understated and elegant in appearance, but there’s nothing shy and retiring about it, with a 5.5 liter V-8 twin turbocharged engine that can take you from 0 to 60 in 3.4 seconds. With three rows of seating, you can fit up to seven skiers along with their gear in this powerhouse. You’ll get to the lift through even the worst winter conditions, and you’ll get there in luxurious comfort as well.
Even used, the Range Rover and the Benz will set you back a fair bit of change – you do have to pay a price for luxury. But as far as we’re concerned at YourMechanic, any of these outstanding rigs will do a great job of getting you to and from the slopes.
