Top 2026 Ford Vehicles for Mild, Wet Winter Driving

British Columbia's coastal winters bring unique driving conditions. While snow is rare in many areas, drivers face rain, fog, and occasional icy patches. Ford's 2026 lineup offers several models engineered to handle these conditions with confidence, featuring intelligent all-wheel drive systems, advanced safety technology, and practical features that make wet-weather driving less stressful.

Whether you're navigating rainy commutes or exploring gravel roads on weekend getaways, the right vehicle makes all the difference. Here's a look at Ford's standout models for drivers in British Columbia who want year-round capability.

2026 Ford Escape: Compact Versatility for Daily Driving

The 2026 Ford Escape remains a smart choice for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability. This compact SUV offers available all-wheel drive that automatically disconnects the rear driveline when extra traction isn't needed, switching to front-wheel drive to improve fuel economy.

The Escape's Selectable Drive Modes let you adapt to changing conditions:

• Slippery mode optimizes vehicle stability controls to reduce wheel spin on rain-slicked roads and icy surfaces
• Normal mode handles everyday driving
• Sport mode sharpens throttle response and steering
• Eco mode adjusts engine and transmission performance to maximize efficiency during highway cruising

Towing capacity ranges from 680 kg to 1,588 kg (1,500 to 3,500 lbs) depending on the model. The compact footprint makes parking easier in urban areas, while the elevated seating position provides better visibility in heavy rain or fog.

2026 Ford Maverick: Affordable Hybrid Efficiency

The 2026 Ford Maverick continues to impress as one of Canada's most affordable pickups, now with an available hybrid all-wheel drive system. The standard hybrid front-wheel drive model achieves 5.6 L/100 km in the city with over 800 kilometres of range, while the new hybrid all-wheel drive model delivers 5.8 L/100 km in the city while providing enhanced traction on wet roads and trails.

The hybrid all-wheel drive model is available on XL, XLT, and Lariat trims. Drivers who select this option can also add the available 4K Tow Package, which doubles towing capacity for small campers, personal watercraft, and utility trailers. Maximum payload capacity reaches 680 kg (1,500 lbs), and the innovative FLEXBED storage system helps organize cargo with moulded pockets that accept cut pieces of 2x4 to section off the bed.

The multi-position tailgate can be positioned flat to haul long cargo or secured in the middle position to carry a mountain bike. The Maverick also includes a 110V/400W outlet in both the bed and cab, making it easy to plug in air compressors, battery chargers, or power tools.

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor: Off-Road Capability and Family Comfort

The first-ever 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor expands the lineup of America's all-time best-selling SUV with serious off-road credentials. This model features rugged capability with modern comfort and technology, making it ideal for families who want to venture beyond paved roads.

The Explorer Tremor features standard four-wheel drive with a Torsen limited-slip differential that ensures traction on slippery or sandy surfaces. An available 3.0 L EcoBoost engine delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for challenging terrain. A 2.3 L engine option balances performance and efficiency for those who don't need maximum output.

The off-road-tuned suspension includes specially tuned springs and sway bars that provide an extra inch of ride height and a smooth, controlled ride both on and off the road. Underbody protection at the front and rear shields vital components, allowing drivers to explore gravel roads and trails with confidence.

Inside, the Explorer Tremor features the Ford Digital Experience, Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, and available features like massaging front seats and an optional 14-speaker premium B&O audio system. Available BlueCruise 1.5 makes long road trips more relaxing with hands-free highway driving capability.

2026 Ford Expedition: Full-Size Capability for Families

The 2026 Ford Expedition offers full-size capability with seating for up to 8 passengers and towing capabilities reaching 4,354 kg (9,600 lbs). The lineup includes the standard wheelbase Expedition and the extended wheelbase Expedition MAX, which adds nearly 300 mm of length for increased cargo capacity.

Standard Control Trac four-wheel drive provides confident traction in wet conditions, while the 10-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift delivers smooth power delivery. The standard 3.5 L EcoBoost V6 produces 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, with an available 3.5 L High-Output EcoBoost V6 generating 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque for maximum capability.

The Expedition Tremor takes off-road performance further with 33-inch all-terrain tires, 269 mm (10.6 inches) of ground clearance, Rock Crawl mode, and the High-Output engine as standard equipment. This trim features improved approach (26.0°), departure (24.5°), and breakover (21.3°) angles compared to standard models.

Inside, the Expedition features a 24-inch panoramic display paired with a 13.2-inch centre display, standard Ford Digital Experience, and 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability supporting up to 10 devices. The available Ford Split Gate includes "Open On Approach" functionality for easier access to cargo.

The Expedition MAX offers up to 3,485 litres of cargo space behind the first row, 2,135 litres behind the second row, and 1,059 litres behind the third row with seats fully upright. This makes it ideal for families who need maximum cargo flexibility for road trips or outdoor gear.

2026 Ford Bronco Sport: Rugged Design and Daily Practicality

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport (2026 model information not yet available) features rugged styling with practical features for drivers who want off-road capability. The Bronco Sport offers 5 standard drive modes that tune vehicle performance and handling to road conditions, making it adaptable to wet pavement, gravel roads, or trail driving.

The available steel underbody and 4 recovery hooks provide confidence for venturing off the beaten path. Optional features like Ford Trail Control with 1-Pedal Driving make off-road driving more accessible. The Safari-style roof provides extra headroom and cargo space, with enough room to fit two bikes standing up when equipped with the available interior bike rack.

Steel-plated front and rear bumpers are available and ready for trailers or campers, while also providing trail-ready durability. The Bronco Sport is offered in two new exterior colours for 2025: Velocity Blue Metallic and Ruby Red Metallic tinted clear coat.

2026 Ford F-150: Truck Capability for Every Need

The 2026 Ford F-150 offers unmatched versatility with multiple cab configurations, bed lengths, and engine options. For drivers in British Columbia who need truck capability with all-weather confidence, several trims stand out.

The F-150 XLT provides a balance of productivity and comfort with chrome bumpers, 18-inch chrome-like PVD wheels (4x4), and a power driver seat. Standard features include a 12-inch centre display with SYNC 4 and Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0. The available 3.5 L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 delivers 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque while achieving 10.4 L/100 km combined fuel consumption in 4x4 configuration.

The F-150 Tremor is engineered for trails and rough terrain with standard 3.5 L EcoBoost V6, 4x4, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. Off-road tech includes Trail Control, Trail 1-Pedal Drive, and Rock Crawl mode. The suspension features off-road tuning with 1.7-inch twin-tube dampers, and the truck offers 240 mm (9.4 inches) of ground clearance with improved approach and departure angles.

Maximum towing capacity reaches 6,124 kg (13,500 lbs) with the 3.5 L EcoBoost V6, while maximum payload capacity reaches 1,107 kg (2,440 lbs). The available Pro Power Onboard system provides up to 7.2 kW of exportable power with the hybrid model, capable of running a framing crew or mobile metal shop directly from the truck bed.

At a Glance: 2026 F-150 Capabilities

Technology That Enhances Winter Driving

Ford's 2026 lineup benefits from advanced technology that makes wet-weather driving safer and less stressful. The Ford Digital Experience integrates smoothly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both available wirelessly. Apple Maps and supported third-party navigation apps can be viewed on the instrument cluster, keeping critical information in the driver's line of sight.

Ford Co-Pilot360 includes standard features like Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking (including Pedestrian Detection), Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. Available Co-Pilot360 Plus adds Adaptive Cruise Control with traffic jam assist, 360-degree camera, front sensing system, Evasive Steer Assist, Reverse Brake Assist, and Active Park Assist Plus.

The available 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability turns your Ford vehicle into a mobile hotspot for up to 10 devices, with access up to 15 metres away from the vehicle. This connectivity proves valuable for remote work, entertainment, or staying connected during road trips.

Choosing the Right Ford for Your Needs

British Columbia drivers have diverse needs, and Ford's 2026 lineup offers solutions for every situation. The Escape and Maverick provide fuel-efficient options for daily commuting and weekend adventures. The Explorer Tremor and Bronco Sport balance family-friendly interiors with genuine off-road capability. The Expedition delivers maximum space and towing capacity for large families or those who tow regularly. The F-150 remains a versatile tool for work and recreation, with configurations to match any requirement.

All these vehicles share common strengths: intelligent all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive systems that provide confident traction on wet roads, advanced safety technology that helps prevent accidents, and practical features that make daily life easier.

Experience the 2026 Ford Lineup at Suburban Motors Ford

Choosing the right vehicle for British Columbia's unique climate requires hands-on experience. Our team at Suburban Motors Ford can help you explore these models, answer your questions, and find the right match for your driving needs. Visit us to test drive the 2026 Ford lineup and see which model fits your lifestyle best.