The 2 Best SUVs for New York Winters, According to NEMPA

When winter hits New York, it doesn’t hold back. From icy highways in Utica to snow-packed roads stretching across the Mohawk Valley, having a vehicle that can handle unpredictable weather isn’t just convenient, it’s essential. That’s why it’s no surprise that Kia’s 2025 Carnival MPV and the 2025 Kia Telluride SUV were each honored with 2025 Winter Vehicle Awards from the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA). After all, New England knows snow, and New York drivers face the same tough conditions year after year.

Kia Telluride: A Proven Winter Champion

This year’s Kia Telluride isn’t new to praise. It has now collected four Winter Vehicle Awards from NEMPA, including its latest win for Best Midsize SUV. With available X-Pro capability, rugged all-terrain tires, and a design built for confidence on icy roads, the Telluride is engineered for year-round versatility. Add in three-row seating, advanced driver-assist technology, and plenty of cargo space, and you’ve got an SUV ready for both snowstorms and family road trips.

Kia Carnival: Redefining Winter Family Travel

For the first time, the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV claimed NEMPA’s title of Winter Minivan of the Year, a major win for families looking for capability beyond the traditional minivan. The Carnival blends the spacious comfort of a minivan with SUV-inspired durability, plus available hybrid efficiency. With features designed for long commutes and family adventures alike, the Carnival proves it can handle New York’s harsh winters while keeping everyone comfortable and connected inside.

Why NEMPA’s Recognition Matters for New York Drivers

NEMPA vehicles are tested in real New England winters, where snow, ice, and freezing rain push cars to their limits. That makes their awards especially valuable for drivers in Upstate New York, where winter weather can be just as relentless. If a Kia earns top marks in New England, you can trust it will perform just as well here in Utica, Syracuse, or New Hardford.

Are New Kia’s Available at Destination Kia of Utica?

At Destination Kia of Utica (5056 Commercial Drive, Yorkville, NY 13495), we know how much winter driving impacts your daily life. That’s why we’re proud to offer both the award-winning 2025 Kia Telluride and 2025 Kia Carnival right here. Whether you’re preparing for long snowy commutes or planning family ski trips, these vehicles deliver the safety, capability, and comfort you need. Stop by today to test drive the Kia that’s built for New York winters, and see why the experts at NEMPA agree: when the snow falls, Kia leads the way.

Tags: Kia Carnival, Kia Telluride
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