Ten of the best: Winter wonders

WHAT IS IT?
The Discovery was a huge leap forward over previous models for Land Rover, offering refinement, space and on and off-road capability. The whole car has a quality feel, backed up by Land Rover's iconic image. Those looking for something smaller could always consider the Freelander.

Price (used) - £10,500 to £43,000

Fuel economy - 30mpg (diesel)

Power - 188bhp

Best feature: Terrain response system that makes the Discovery practically unstoppable in poor conditions.

WHAT IS IT?
It's a great 4x4 with a good interior, comfortable ride and capable diesels. Besides being attractively styled, it's available with seven seats, has generous equipment levels and a five-year warranty. It doesn't drive as well as the Discovery but it costs less. It can even be locked into 4x4 if the going gets tough.

WHAT IS IT?
The XC70 is an estate with off-roading pretensions - namely high ground clearance and a 4x4 system. It's surprisingly capable off road yet retains the comfortable ride of a conventional car. A low emission, high economy DRIVe version is available for the more frugally minded.

WHAT IS IT?
The first car to be branded a crossover, the Qashqai was a great success. The majority of them are front-wheel drive yet four-wheel-drive versions are available which are ideal for dealing with poorer road conditions. The Qashqai also drives well and has smart styling with a spacious, comfortable cabin.

WHAT IS IT?
The Outlander is one of the best cars Mitsubishi has produced in years. It's available with seven seats, is comfortable, good to drive and is powered by a Volkswagen-sourced diesel. The Outlander also has switchable 4x4 for snowy conditions. It's a genuine family vehicle, ideal for those with lots of kids.

WHAT IS IT?
Effectively a pumped-up Octavia saloon with four-wheel drive - much like the Volvo XC70 yet usually available for less money. It's designed to give you the practicality of an estate with the off-road ability of a proper 4x4. Performance is good with a range of engines and it's pretty capable on the rough stuff.

WHAT IS IT?
The Kuga's no hardcore off-roader but it is available with four-wheel drive to tackle snowy roads and muddy tracks. It benefits from stylish looks, car-like handling, a premium interior and a refined, economical, diesel. 

WHAT IS IT?
The little Panda's fun and surprisingly capable off-road with it's four-wheel drive performance being backed up with chunky looks and a spacious interior. Its small size makes it easy to manoeuvre and park but they aren't very powerful - so not ideal for commuting or motorway driving.

WHAT IS IT?
The Countryman increases MINI's model line-up to four, and with a 4x4 it's a now a bona fide brand. The Countryman is half off-roader, half family hatch and comes with four-wheel drive as an option. There's plenty of space with a large boot, and the car comes with a decent amount of equipment like a DAB radio, Bluetooth, six airbags and air conditioning.

WHAT IS IT?
It's Peugeot's attempt at combining a hatchback, a people carrier and an off-roader. It might not be as stylish as something like the Qashqai but it has a practical interior, a large boot, a split tailgate and excellent road manners. There's no four-wheel-drive system though, so you'll have to select the optional 'Grip Control' to help keep the car moving.

Price (new) - £14,000 to £23,000

Fuel economy -  57mpg (diesel)

Power - 120bhp

Best feature: Optional 'Grip Control' that, despite not being a 4x4 system, controls traction to keep the 3008 moving in slippery conditions.