I am wondering what the experience has been for Element owners when driving in snow and if they have a recommendation on the right tire for snow driving? I picked my Element up this past Tuesday evening and took it on a
410 mile round trip from San Mateo to Truckee, California. Elevation changed from 15' above sea level to 7400' at Donner Summit where there were strong winds and snow falling, back down to 6400' at my end destination in Truckee. Saw one car at the summit which spun out into a ditch. I really wanted to know how my Element would handle going up the grade to the sierras and in snow. This car is great at traveling up mountain grades. It was a smooth ride and I was able to hold 65 to 70 along the way up the grade. On some of the steeper grades my speed fell back a bit but the Element changed gears smoothly and got my speed back in range. There was plenty of power to pass even when going 65 mph on a grade. I am so happy! I had concerns about giving up my F150 SuperCrew 4x4 but that was put to rest through this trip! I am going back up to Truckee next weekend and I am hoping there will be some decent snow on the ground so I can check out how my Element handles in going up my steep drive in Truckee!