Many Toronto drivers believe that owning an SUV or an all-wheel-drive vehicle is enough to handle winter roads. While AWD and 4WD systems do help with traction, they don’t eliminate the need for winter tires — even in the Greater Toronto Area.
What AWD and 4WD Actually Help With
All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive systems improve traction when accelerating, especially on snow-covered or slippery roads. This can be helpful when pulling away from a stoplight or driving uphill in winter conditions common across Toronto and the GTA.
However, AWD does not improve braking or cornering. When it comes to stopping safely on icy roads or maintaining control during a turn, your tires are the most important factor.
Why Winter Tires Matter in Toronto Winters
Toronto winters are unpredictable. Temperatures often hover around freezing, creating slush, black ice, and freezing rain — some of the most dangerous road conditions for drivers.
Winter tires are designed with rubber compounds that stay flexible below 7°C, providing better grip when all-season tires begin to harden. Their deeper tread patterns help channel snow and slush away from the tire, improving traction and control on city streets and highways like the 401 and Gardiner Expressway.
SUV Size and AWD Don’t Reduce Stopping Distance
SUVs are heavier than sedans, which can improve stability but also increase stopping distance on icy or wet winter roads. Without winter tires, even an AWD SUV can take significantly longer to stop — a critical concern in stop-and-go Toronto traffic.
Winter tires improve braking performance and steering response, helping drivers maintain control in sudden stops and tight urban driving conditions.
Are Winter Tires Required in Ontario?
While winter tires are not legally required in Ontario, they are highly recommended. Many Ontario insurance providers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with winter tires, making them a smart safety and cost-saving choice.
For Toronto drivers who commute daily or drive early mornings and evenings, winter tires provide added confidence during colder months.
The Bottom Line for Toronto Drivers
AWD and SUVs help with winter traction, but they do not replace the safety benefits of winter tires. For Toronto and GTA driving, winter tires offer better control, shorter stopping distances, and greater peace of mind throughout the winter season.
At Yorkdale Ford, our team can help you choose the right winter tire options for your vehicle and driving habits.
Visit Yorkdale Ford to get winter-ready for Toronto roads.
