Mazda SUVs driving through a forest

When freezing rain and snowdrifts coat the roads, it’s crucial to have a reliable vehicle. Mazda SUVs combine available i-Activ AWD® with elevated ground clearance to handle coastal Maine’s unpredictable conditions. Goodwin Mazda explores how these features bring all-important confidence to winter roads.

i-ACTIV AWD®

Unlike reactive systems that respond after wheels slip, i-Activ AWD® anticipates loss of traction by tracking outside temperature, wiper activity, steering angle, and throttle input. When its sensors detect freezing conditions or active wipers, the system preemptively sends torque to rear wheels before front tires lose grip. This seamless operation means you maintain control through icy intersections and snow-covered hills without even feeling the system engage.

Ground Clearance

It’s important that your vehicle has enough clearance to clear snowbanks and other potential obstacles during winter. Mazda CX-5 models ride 7.6 inches above the pavement, while the adventure-ready Mazda CX-50 offers 8.6 inches of clearance. The three-row Mazda CX-90 combines similar clearance with extra space for gear. Each model’s elevated position improves visibility through coastal storms and reduces the risk of undercarriage contact with hidden ice ridges.

G-Vectoring Control Plus®

Winter driving demands precise control through corners, especially on roads bordered by snowbanks. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus® technology subtly reduces engine torque during turn-in, transferring weight onto front wheels for improved grip. As you exit a corner, the system applies light braking to outer wheels, stabilizing the vehicle and preparing it for the next maneuver. Combined with i-Activ AWD®, this technology creates predictable handling on any road.

Test-Drive MAZDA SUVs in Brunswick, ME

Ready to discover how Mazda SUVs handle Maine’s demanding winters? Our team at Goodwin Mazda matches drivers to the right model to their winter needs, from coastal commutes to mountain adventures. Schedule your test drive today and experience firsthand how these models can handle any weather.

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