For those who live in the northern states, buying a new or used vehicle that will be guaranteed to handle the winter months is extremely important. Once the snow starts falling and the ice starts forming, it might be time to put the sports car away and consider at something a bit more durable.

MSN Autos recently took a look at some vehicles that operate just as well in the winter months as they do in the spring and summer. Most of these vehicles have all-wheel drive (AWD), but a few have a couple of extra features that allow them to really go above and beyond when it comes to handling the snow.

The first choice was the trio of American pickup trucks: the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado and Dodge Ram. In addition to coming with four-wheel drive, these trucks have the added benefit of a taller ride height that gives them more stability. Compared to many of the other full-size SUVs, the pickups are also a relatively inexpensive choice when it comes to braving the winter weather.

Those who would rather opt for a traditional sedan may be interested in the Ford Taurus SHO. This car's V6 engine provides enough power to handle any trouble spots while simultaneously offering AWD. The news source writes that the car is "built in the Windy City for the wintry weather," so those with inclement weather to tackle may want to consider this edition of the Taurus.

One of the big selling points for SUVs is the ability to handle tough terrain, and the mixture of snow and ice that comes every winter definitely falls in this category. While most SUVs will be a solid choice, the news source points to the Toyota Land Cruiser as a solid example of a full-size SUV that will make short work of the winter season. With a history that includes military transport and a stint as the Royal Family's chosen vehicle, the Land Cruiser is renowned for its ability to transport a large amount of people and gear efficiently and safely.

Drivers searching for luxury cars don't have a ton of options when it comes to handling snow, but the Audi brand's signature "Quattro" four-wheel drive is a good starting point for those who want a high-end car that can handle the snow. The news source recommends the A6 Avant as having plenty of room for the whole family in addition to the Quattro feature. An optional heated seat and dual climate control upgrade will keep everyone comfortable along the way.