How do the sedans(non awd) handle in snow? I just purcahsed an '03 sedan and would like to have an idea of what to expect this winter. I keep reading conflicting info - "it handles great in the snow", "Just as good as any FWD sedan", "It's horrible", ect.
Does the "VDC" really keep the vehicle stable when driving in poor conditions? BTW, It has the original Bridgestone tires on it.

I found many threads regarding winter driving, but they were mainly for the coupe models.

TIA

 

Yes, this has been beaten to death, but it's never clear what the answer is, unless you count "IT DEPENDS".

And that is indeed the reality. Factors include driving experience (winter & RWD), condition of roads and how well they are plowed, distance needed to travel, location and how much snow you get (and what kind, as in amount of sleet or ice storms), how much you plan to drive, what roads (how congested, how fast), etc. However the primary question comes back to what kind of tires, performance summer based, all season, or winter.

I am in NW Wisconsin and work from home with most destinations close by (also have a 4x4 as backup). My RWD G has all season Goodyear Eagle RS-A's and I didn't really have a problem last year. I did throw sandbags in the back during longer trips or when it was actively snowing which did help. For the most part the VDC does help a whole lot, but you need to learn to work with it and can't be heavy with the gas.

Bottom line:

G with summer performance tires IS horrible in the snow. Ah, duh. [img]/w3timages/icons/smile.gif[/img]
G with all season tires can be OK in the snow if you take it easy.
G with winter tires is said to be excellent.

Just don't be dumb and turn off VDC, except for maybe in an empty lot every once in a while.

2003.5 Sedan Black/Black w/ sport, premium, aero, and winter packages. See my profile for updated mods list and pics.

 

What Nate said.

It comes down to this...Have you driven a rwd car in the snow in your area before? If not you might have a problem unless you buy quality snow tires. I drove my sedan throughout the winter with the stock Bridgestone all-season tires. I didn't get stuck or have much trouble getting around but as you read, everyone has a different experience.

2003.5 Garnet Fire 5AT

 

Mine was okay in the snow last year. And the VDC saved my *** when I was turning and the car decided to keep going straight. The VDC kicked in and braked one of the front wheels and voila I'm turning again.

2003.5 5AT Sedan Black/Black Premium/Winter Packages

 

I drove my Sedan last winter in Columbus, Ohio. It did well in all situations except trying to go up a steep hill just after it had snowed. I have the all seasons on it and 100 lbs of sand in the back. I am almost due to replace tires and will probably go with the blizzaks for the winter. Then I will hopefully get new wheels and performance tires for the summers.
So I guess my 2 cents is that is a moderate performer in the winter- minimal issues once your rolling on level roads, but could leave you stuck on slippery inclines.

g4ian