Grip The Road: Ohio's Top 5 Used AWD SUVs Under $25k For Winter 2025

Winter roads in Ohio can get icy and tough, making safe driving a real concern for many. Used AWD SUVs Ohio shoppers want offer the grip and control you need when snow falls hard. This post highlights the Best Winter SUVs under $25k, with tips to find Affordable SUVs Cincinnati families love.

Find out which vehicles keep you moving no matter how cold it gets.

Key Takeaways

• AWD SUVs are good for Ohio winters. They help with control on icy roads.

• Cars with high ground clearance, like the Subaru Forester, do better in snow.

• Used models like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer value and reliability.

• Tom Tepe Autocenter helps find affordable AWD SUVs under $25K.

• Features like heated seats and all-wheel drive make winter driving safer.

• 
  

Why an AWD SUV is Ideal for Ohio Winters

Winter roads in the Midwest often bring ice, slush, and deep snow. All-wheel drive crossovers and SUVs help drivers keep control and traction when driving through harsh Ohio weather.

Benefits of AWD in Snowy and Icy Conditions

AWD sends power to all four wheels. This increases grip on slick roads covered in snow or ice. Vehicles like the 2013 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X and Subaru Outback use this system to keep drivers moving safely in tough Ohio and Indiana winters.

AWD helps prevent slips during turns and helps cars accelerate better from a full stop on snowy streets.

Automatic power balance between front and rear wheels boosts stability and helps drivers stay in control. “AWD vehicles significantly reduce the risk of accidents in adverse weather conditions,” says Harry Tepe.

AWD works better than two-wheel drive, especially on Ohio’s hazardous winter roads. This feature is vital for those shopping for winter-ready used 4x4 SUVs or reliable AWD SUVs at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country.

Importance of Ground Clearance for Winter Driving

Adequate ground clearance keeps snow from building up under your pre-owned SUV. If you drive in places like Harrison, Ohio or Aurora, Indiana, look for at least 8 inches of space between the road and the bottom of your vehicle.

The Subaru Forester has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which helps prevent getting stuck on snowy roads. Jeep Grand Cherokee models with air suspension can go up to 10.9 inches; this lets you cross deeper snow and avoid hidden curbs or rocks.

Snow often hides obstacles that could hurt a low-riding car or crossover. High ground clearance gives you better handling when driving through drifts in Kentucky or around Milan, Indiana in winter-ready used SUVs.

Vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offer 8.1 inches, while large options like the Tahoe give between 8 and 10 inches, depending on setup. The Rivian R1S leads with an adjustable height up to 14.9 inches for buyers who want more control in tough conditions.

Tom Tepe Autocenter’s team recommends checking these specs before your next purchase of top-rated AWD SUVs under $25k in our area.

How to Find Affordable AWD SUVs Under $25K

Set a clear budget and focus on options with all-wheel drive, strong stability control, and helpful features like Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. My team at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country will guide you through mid-size SUVs with smart key systems or digital instrument clusters under $25K.

Tips for Budget-Friendly SUV Shopping

Finding the right SUV for Ohio winters without breaking the bank takes some work. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we help you get behind the wheel of an affordable AWD SUV. Here are our top tips.

• Look at used models like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. These offer reliability and affordability.

• Check out small crossovers if you're commuting. They're budget-friendly and efficient.

• Consider trucks with AWD for extra toughness in snow. Used options provide value.

• Explore hybrid SUVs, such as the 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, for savings on fuel.

• Visit dealerships with a good reputation, like us at Tom Tepe Autocenter. We ensure quality vehicles.

• Analyze trade-in offers to stretch your budget further. We evaluate your current vehicle fairly.

• Review long-term reliability scores to avoid costly repairs down the road, like checking the Chevrolet Traverse's score of 88/100.

  
  

Tom Tepe Autocenter is here to guide you through finding an AWD SUV that fits your winter needs and budget. Our team ensures a selection of vehicles that offer comfort, tech features like Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, and roomy cabins for your winter adventures in Ohio.

The Role of Trusted Dealerships Like Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country

Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country serve vehicle shoppers from Indianapolis, Harrison, Ohio, Aurora, Indiana, Milan, Indiana, and nearby areas. Our team offers over 200 pre-owned vehicles in three locations across Indiana and Ohio.

You will find a range of AWD SUVs under $25k, including models like the Nissan Rogue, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, GMC Terrain, Ford Edge, Toyota Highlander, Dodge Journey SXT, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Subaru Crosstrek.

We focus on making every step easy for you. Each location has a full finance department to help with your application if you qualify. Our service centers in places like Milan handle maintenance for top brands such as Chevy Equinox or Silverado 1500 to keep your SUV winter-ready.

“We treat our customers how we would want to be treated,” is not just our motto; it guides each sale at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country.

Our goal is simple: deliver dependable vehicles that meet your needs for safety in any season.

Exploring Tom Tepe Autocenter's AWD SUV Inventory

Browse AWD SUVs from trusted brands like Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Subaru, and Jeep at Tom Tepe Autocenter. Our inventory features vehicles under $25,000, including top picks such as the Honda CR-V for daily drives and the rugged Jeep Grand Cherokee with advanced four-wheel drive options.

Many of our SUVs offer key winter features: standard all-wheel drive on models like the Subaru Forester with 8.7 inches of ground clearance or higher trims of the Grand Cherokee that reach up to 10.9 inches.

Each vehicle meets strict quality standards before it reaches the lot. Schedule a test drive to see how models like the Toyota RAV4 or Mazda CX-5 handle Ohio roads in all seasons.

Financing Your AWD SUV with Tom Tepe Autocenter

After checking out our AWD SUV inventory, buyers can use simple and flexible financing at Tom Tepe Autocenter. Our finance team helps shoppers in Indiana and Southwest Ohio find payment plans that fit their budgets.

Start online with our quick application and receive a personalized offer, interest rate, and credit details fast. Bring your trade-in to lower the price of a used SUV, including popular models like the Toyota Sequoia or Ford Explorer.

Specials and deals come up often, so keep an eye out for extra savings. Our team guides you through all costs, including insurance and possible future maintenance. Options are available for popular body styles such as subcompact, full-size, and wagons, while our offers cover both passenger vans and pickup trucks.

Trust our transparent approach to help you find a used AWD vehicle, like a GMC Yukon, at a price that makes sense for your family. All offers depend on approved credit.

Evaluating Your Trade-In with Tom Tepe Autocenter

Trade-in evaluations at Tom Tepe Autocenter make it easy to upgrade to a used AWD SUV under $25,000. Our team checks your vehicle’s age, mileage, condition, and market demand. Models like Chevy Tahoe, Ford Expedition, Jeep Compass, and GMC Acadia are welcome.

We also accept other cars and trucks from brands such as Nissan or Buick.

We give accurate appraisals so you get the best possible value for your trade-in. “Our goal is to provide fair market offers on every trade,” says Harry Tepe. The value you receive can go straight toward lowering your final purchase price.

This helps make SUVs with features such as AWD drivetrains or automatic headlights more affordable for all our customers. See how our finance options can help with your next steps into vehicles like the Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium.

2014 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium

The 2014 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium stands out for its sure-footed traction in Ohio’s snowy months. My team and I recommend it for drivers who want peace of mind on slippery roads with a reliable all-wheel drive system.

Features & Performance in Winter Weather

All-wheel drive on the Subaru Outback gives drivers better grip on snow and ice-covered roads. High ground clearance lets this SUV move through deep snow and rough Ohio terrain with ease.

Heated seats and climate control keep the cabin warm on the coldest days. Automatic braking and blind spot detection improve safety during harsh winter weather. A large cargo area fits extra gear for trips, making it ideal for families and outdoor fans.

Fuel efficiency helps save money during long winter commutes, and customer ratings show high satisfaction for winter use. Strong stability and control make this model one of the best for Ohio's icy roads.

Explore the pros and cons of driving in Ohio next.

Pros & Cons for Ohio Roads

Reliable AWD helps control your SUV on icy Ohio roads. High ground clearance, like in the 2014 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium or the 2010 Forester, makes it easier to drive through snow and rough spots.

Strong safety features make a difference when winter weather hits hard. Spacious cabins give families room for gear during trips, while cargo space is handy for road essentials.

The ride can feel less smooth compared to more up-to-date crossovers, and some models may show wear inside after years of use. Certain SUVs have only average pick-up from their 2.5L engine; this might matter in city traffic or when merging onto highways like I-71 and Route 32 near our dealership.

Some used SUVs lack up-to-date infotainment systems that come standard in many luxury cars today.

Winter-ready SUVs keep you moving on snowy days, says the team at Tom Tepe Autocenter.

Many owners appreciate the lower maintenance costs found with these AWDs over other options, such as plug-ins or larger GMC Yukon Denali models. Durability stands out, too; vehicles like these are built to withstand Ohio winters, but consider checking the interior materials before buying at Car Country or Tom Tepe Autocenter.

2010 Subaru Forester 2. 5 X Premium

Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter sees the 2010 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Premium as a smart pick for Ohio drivers who value traction on slippery winter roads. This SUV comes with symmetrical all-wheel drive and solid mpgs, making it easy to handle ice or snow while keeping fuel costs in check.

Reliable All-Wheel Drive Capabilities

Subaru's AWD system in the 2010 Forester 2.5 X Premium sends power to all four wheels, giving extra grip on icy and snowy Ohio roads. This setup adjusts traction automatically; you stay safe and steady during sudden slips or tough winter turns.

Many Subaru owners report great reliability with no issues, even after years of daily use. The brand’s strong record for winter performance stands out among compact SUVs like the Kia Sportage and Ford Escape.

Always check maintenance logs and a CARFAX vehicle history before buying used models at Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country for peace of mind. Subaru’s standard AWD makes it a smart pick when shopping for a dependable ride under $25,000 this winter season.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Cabin design focuses on ergonomic comfort with easy-to-reach controls. Drivers and passengers enjoy generous headroom and legroom in both rows. Fold-flat rear seats create more cargo space, perfect for winter trips or hauling gear.

Higher trims add heated seats and dual-zone climate control for comfort during Ohio’s cold months.

Access to the rear is simple, making loading groceries or sports equipment quick and easy. Blind spot detection is available on select options, helping with safer lane changes in tough weather.

"Our team values the Subaru Forester as a practical winter vehicle choice," says Harry Tepe. Families will appreciate interior upgrades over earlier models, especially for daily use and longer drives.

The Forester competes well among compact AWD SUVs under $25k at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country this season.

2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo

The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo stands out with strong four-wheel drive skills and a bold look. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter knows it can handle deep snow, ice, and rough back roads across Ohio winters.

Advanced 4WD Systems for Tough Winters

Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system in the 2016 Grand Cherokee Laredo adjusts traction for snow, mud, sand, and rock. Drivers choose different drive modes for changing winter roads. The system includes an automatic transmission with low-range gearing.

Up to 10.9 inches of adjustable air suspension lets you raise the SUV for deep snow and icy ruts. Strong V6 and V8 engines give power for towing or winter fun with trailers or cargo vans.

Stability control and traction assist help you stay in control on slippery hills or icy highways. This 4WD setup is one of the most capable in its class. It’s trusted by drivers who need a solid grip in tough Ohio winters.

Rugged Design and Durability

After looking at advanced 4WD systems, let’s talk about what makes the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo last through Ohio winters. This SUV stands out with a strong frame, built to handle years of rough roads and off-road trails.

Skid plates and tow hooks, available on some trims, offer extra protection from rocks and ice. Thick, high-quality materials line the interior and resist wear, even after many Midwest snow seasons.

Many owners of the Grand Cherokee report strong reliability. This SUV holds its value well because of its tough build. Its rugged style comes from iconic Jeep details like bold grilles and large wheel arches.

The design supports heavy use in winter weather or on muddy back roads, keeping families safe and comfortable on messy commutes or weekend camping trips.

2017 Dodge Journey SXT

The 2017 Dodge Journey SXT gives drivers plenty of space for family trips and winter gear. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter can show you how this versatile crossover tackles harsh Ohio winters with confidence.

Spacious Interior for Families

Seats fold flat, so you can fit sports gear or winter boots with ease. Seven passengers fit inside—great for big families or carpool duty. Tri-zone climate control keeps everyone warm, no matter where they sit.

Third-row seats drop down fast to boost space for groceries or snow shovels.

Big windows and a tall ride height make it easy to spot icy roads ahead. Kids enjoy plenty of storage cubbies for snacks and mittens; getting in and out is simple, even with bulky coats on.

Higher trims provide rear-seat entertainment screens that help make longer trips feel shorter during Ohio’s cold months.

Dependable winter performance comes next as we explore how this SUV handles snow-covered streets across the Buckeye State.

Dependable Winter Performance

After enjoying the roomy cabin, families appreciate safety features that shine in winter. The Dodge Journey SXT offers an all-wheel drive system for better grip on snowy and icy roads.

Standard stability and traction control help keep your SUV steady around corners and during quick stops.

A reliable V6 engine powers through tough Ohio winters with ease. ABS brakes and brake assist technology work together to reduce slipping when you need to stop quickly on ice. Ground clearance is enough to handle moderate snow, while routine maintenance stays simple for used buyers at Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country.

Many owners say they trust their Journey each cold season thanks to its consistent performance and practical design for winter driving in Ohio.

2013 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X

The 2013 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X handles tough Ohio winters with its sturdy truck frame and powerful all-wheel drive. My team at Tom Tepe Autocenter recommends it for drivers who want real confidence on snowy roads.

Off-Road Capabilities and Winter Utility

PRO-4X trim gives rugged off-road tools like a locking rear differential and hill descent control. These work together to keep traction steady on icy or steep ground in Ohio winters.

Skid plates shield crucial underbody parts from rocks, ice chunks, and deep snow. Off-road tires grip slick roads well, while high ground clearance of over 9 inches helps clear piles of snow without scraping the bottom.

Roof racks carry winter gear such as skis or boards with ease. 4WD low-range gearing handles extreme cold-weather events or muddy paths left by thawing snow. Utility meets safety for those who travel across snowy highways or rough country trails near Cincinnati in January or February.

Xterra PRO-4X stands out against models like Hummer H3 and Wrangler by combining tough features with year-round dependability for Ohio adventures.

All offers at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country are available for approved credit and qualified buyers only.

Key Features for Snowy Conditions

All-wheel drive makes the 2013 Nissan Xterra PRO-4X a strong pick for Ohio winters. Heated mirrors and available heated seats keep frost away and add comfort when it gets cold. Fog lights and upgraded headlights cut through heavy snow, while a rear wiper and defroster improve rear visibility on icy days.

Easy-to-clean interior materials help after winter trips. Large cargo space fits snow shovels, boots, or emergency gear. The controls work well with gloves, so changing settings is simple in freezing weather.

The PRO-4X stands out in our Tom Tepe Autocenter lineup for these practical winter features, making it a top choice among used AWD SUVs under $25,000 for the 2025 season.

Conclusion

Winter in Ohio can be tough, but the right used AWD SUV makes a big difference. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country helps you stay safe on snowy roads without breaking your budget.

These top picks under $25,000 offer a strong grip, great comfort, and real value. Visit us to see how easy it is to upgrade your drive for winter 2025 with help from local experts who care about your needs.

FAQs

1. What are the best used AWD SUVs under $25,000 for Ohio winters?Some of the top-rated used AWD SUVs for Ohio’s snowy roads include the Subaru Forester, Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Each offers dependable traction, good ground clearance, and excellent safety for winter driving.

2. Why should I buy my next AWD SUV from Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country?At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we offer a large selection of quality pre-owned AWD SUVs inspected for reliability and priced to fit your budget. With locations in Milan, IN, Aurora, IN, and Harrison, OH, our friendly team provides transparent pricing, personalized financing options (on approved credit), and expert guidance to help you find the perfect vehicle for Ohio winters.

3. Do AWD vehicles really make a difference in snowy and icy conditions?Yes. All-wheel drive (AWD) improves traction by sending power to all four wheels, helping your SUV maintain control when roads are slick with snow or ice. AWD systems are especially beneficial on hills, curves, and unplowed streets during Ohio’s harsh winter months.

4. Can I trade in my current vehicle toward a used AWD SUV?Absolutely! Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country make trade-ins simple. Our team will assess your current vehicle’s market value and apply it toward your purchase of a used AWD SUV. This can significantly lower your final price and help you upgrade affordably this winter.

5. What financing options are available for used AWD SUVs under $25K?Our finance specialists offer a range of financing options for qualified customers. Whether you have excellent credit or are rebuilding, we’ll work with local and national lenders to find a payment plan that fits your needs. You can even start your application online for a faster approval process.

---

Harry Tepe, Owner and Dealer Principal, Tom Tepe Autocenter

Harry Tepe is a seasoned automotive expert and the owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, a leading vehicle dealership serving the Midwest states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With a lifelong passion for automobiles.

Over the years, Harry worked his way up through various roles, absorbing valuable insights into sales management and dealership operations until he became the youngest GM Dealer Principal and owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, expanding the business to include multiple locations and a standalone reconditioning center.

Under Harry's leadership, Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora and Harrison, Ohio, have grown exponentially, selling over 2000 vehicles annually and generating over $50 million in revenue. His active involvement in the industry is further evidenced by his participation in the NADA 20 Group and his influential role on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Auto Dealers Association, even serving as its President in 2016.

Harry's journey embodies the essence of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. His insights and experiences are not just stories of personal growth and business success; they are testaments to his deep understanding of and commitment to the automotive industry.