How Volvo’s AWD System Keeps You Moving in a Snowstorm

When a snowstorm hits, road conditions change in an instant. Slippery ice patches, deep snow, and reduced visibility make winter driving unpredictable. That’s where Volvo’s advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system comes in. Designed to react in real time, Volvo’s AWD technology helps you maintain traction, control, and confidence—no matter how harsh the storm.

How Volvo’s AWD Adapts to Winter Roads

Unlike traditional AWD systems, Volvo’s intelligent AWD constantly monitors wheel speed, throttle input, and road conditions to distribute power where it’s needed most. Here’s how it works:

• If the system detects slipping on one wheel, it instantly shifts power to the wheels with the best grip.
• On dry or clear roads, power is mainly sent to the front wheels to improve fuel efficiency.
• When snow or ice is detected, AWD automatically engages all four wheels for maximum stability.

This seamless transition helps ensure you’re never caught off guard, even when roads turn from slushy to icy in seconds.

Traction Control & Stability Systems for Maximum Grip

Volvo’s AWD is enhanced by additional stability features that keep you on track, even in extreme snowstorms:

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) reduces the risk of skidding by adjusting braking and engine power to maintain control.
• Hill Descent Control (available on Volvo SUVs) keeps you steady when driving down steep, snow-covered roads.
• Corner Traction Control helps prevent understeer by directing power to the outside wheels during turns.

Together, these features ensure that when winter roads get unpredictable, your Volvo remains steady and responsive.

Winter Drive Modes: Tailored for Snowstorms

Many Volvo models include multiple drive modes, allowing you to fine-tune performance based on the weather. Winter Mode, available on select models, adjusts throttle response and transmission settings to prevent wheel spin, making it easier to start from a stop in deep snow.

For SUVs like the Volvo XC60 and XC90, Off-Road Mode provides additional traction assistance by optimizing AWD response and activating hill descent control.

Pairing AWD with the Right Winter Tires

While Volvo’s AWD system significantly improves winter driving, winter tires are essential for optimal safety. AWD helps with acceleration and control, but braking and cornering depend on proper tire grip. We offer winter tire packages designed specifically for each model, ensuring the best possible performance in snow and ice.

Stay in Control This Winter with Volvo AWD

Snowstorms don’t wait for the right time to strike—but with Volvo’s AWD system, you’ll always be ready. Whether you’re navigating icy highways or plowing through fresh snowfall, Volvo’s intelligent AWD, traction control, and winter-ready drive modes keep you moving forward.

Visit us at Volvo Cars Oakville to experience AWD in action and explore winter-ready models built to handle the harshest conditions.