Tips For Winter Driving in Madison, WI

December 17, 2019 · 2 min read

Winter driving, especially in colder areas like Madison, WI, can often be hazardous. Some dangers include:

Cold weather, which can impact your vehicle’s mechanical performance .
Inclement weather like snow, sleet and heavy rain, which can make the roads icy and difficult to drive on. In fact, icy roads leads to roughly 156,164 car crashes every year.
Heavy road traffic during the holidays, which increases the odds of a vehicle collision.

This makes it essential to be prepared before heading out to drive during the winter months in Madison, WI. Let’s take a look at the ways you can stay safe safe on the road this winter.

How to Safely Drive in the Winter

Winterize your car before hitting the road — Steps to winterizing your vehicle include the following tasks:

- - Oil change
  - Battery testing
  - Wiper blade replacement
  - Wiper fluid and antifreeze refills
  - Check tire pressure regularly
  - Test brakes and replace brake pads if needed
  - Invest in snow tires
  - Check 4-wheel or all-wheel drive system

Store a winter safety kit in your vehicle — Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, including:

- - Jumper cables
  - Tire jack
  - Tire pressure gauge
  - Portable tire inflator
  - Road flares
  - Blankets
  - Flashlights
  - Non-perishable snacks
  - Water

Drive slowly, especially when accelerating and braking — Prevent skidding by slowly accelerating and braking.

Don’t tailgate — You should never tailgate, but it’s especially important to leave ample room between your car and the vehicle in front of you when the road is slippery.

Avoid stopping a lot, if possible — Starting and stopping can often lead to skidding, so the more you can avoid it, the better. To help avoid this, try slowing down well before you reach the traffic light.

Don’t hit the gas too much while going up hills — Prevent your wheels from spinning by applying even pressure to the accelerator when going up hills.

Don’t stop while going up hills — It can be very difficult to start after stopping on icy roads, especially when going uphill.

Navigate snow plows safely — Snow plows are an important part of winter safety on the road. It may be tempting to try to quickly pass them, but this can be dangerous for both parties. Stay behind the snow plow at a safe distance.

Winterize Your Vehicle in Madison, WI

The expert technicians at Zimbrick Volkswagen of Madison can help winterize your vehicle. Schedule an appointment at our service center today. We’re located conveniently near Sun Prairie and Janesville.

Aug 21, 2026

Your Inside Look at the 2026 Volkswagen Taos

Even in a watered-down segment, the 2026 Volkswagen Taos keeps it original. If you want reliable performance, intuitive technology, and a versatile design from your SUV, you're in the right place. The best place to get a look at the new Taos is at our dealership, but you can get all the details in this model overview. A Rundown of the 2026 Volkswagen Taos Performance Power is a prerequisite for any Volkswagen, and the Taos is no exception. Enjoy a balanced powertrain that generates as much as 174 horsepower and 184 ft/lbs max torque. As a bonus, the suspension is tuned for maximum comfort on virtually any road. The Taos isn't limited to the above features, though. Here are a few more: Emergency Assist — helps bring the vehicle to a controlled stop if driver becomes unresponsive Active Blind Spot Monitor Transmission: 8-speed automatic Technology While you're driving the Taos, available tech features keep you focused and connected. Combined with infotainment upgrades, you’ll be challenged to find a more complete experience. There are a number of standard and available technology features for this SUV, including: Front Assist — Forward Collision Warning + Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring Travel Assist — hands-on semi-automated assist combining Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go Design SUV drivers want a vehicle that exudes strength and sophistication. Sitting 5 is a struggle for some automakers, but not the designers of the Taos. That means fighting for a particular seat is a thing of the past, thanks to the Taos. Check out even more of the available design features here: Standard digital instrument cluster + 8-inch infotainment touchscreen Available dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and upgrades on higher trims LED Headlights & Daytime Running Lights standard Get a firsthand look at the 2026 Taos when you visit Zimbrick Volkswagen of Madison. Our inventory of new Volkswagen cars for sale is unmatched in this area. There's no shortage of great cars here, nor is there a shortage of new Volkswagen specials to stretch your buying power. *MSRP: Starting price represents the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the trim. The MSRP does not include destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer charges. Actual prices are set by the dealer and may vary. Photo is for marketing and example purposes only. Photo may not reflect starting MSRP or trim level.\n**EPA-estimated MPG for City/Highway for 2026 Volkswagen Taos . Actual mileage will vary. Displayed MPG is based on applicable EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid models only) and other factors.

May 19, 2026

Introducing the 2026 Volkswagen Golf R

The 2026 Volkswagen Golf R is the kind of car that makes a number of promises and then proceeds to keep every one of them. This car utilizes driver-focused comfort and safety tech, distinct styling choices, and cutting-edge performance to deliver a car that's worth paying attention to. The best place to get a look at the new Volkswagen Golf R is at our dealership, but you can get all the details in this model overview. A Rundown of the 2026 Volkswagen Golf R Performance The 2026 Golf R delivers the practical handling and speedy performance we expect from Volkswagen cars. While competing cars rely on bells and whistles to distract you, the new Golf R gets right to the point by offering up a reliable and respectable powertrain bolstered by a Gasoline turbocharged inline‑4 engine. Sporting an updated handling configuration, the new Golf R also provides you peace of mind that this car is as reliable as it is fun to drive. You'll find more available performance specs of this car below: R-Performance 4MOTION® AWD with Torque Vectoring Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidance Lines 7-Speed DSG® Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission Technology The new Golf R from Volkswagen sports the comfort and safety technologies we expect from competitive cars. The newest model is available with the latest safety innovations from Volkswagen, which will help you watch the road and cover your blind spots. The new Golf R's standardized smartphone compatibility and cutting-edge infotainment features further highlight Volkswagen's commitment to enhancing each ride. Here are just a few of the features you can expect to find in this car: Harman Kardon Premium Audio System Multiple USB-C Ports & Wi-Fi Connectivity 12.9″ Standard Infotainment Touchscreen Design By blending its sporty capabilities with practical design elements, Volkswagen has crafted a car that strikes a balance between form and function. The 2026 Golf R sports a chiseled body that's accented by purposeful design elements to afford this Volkswagen car an exterior that's as attractive as it is assertive. The quiet and comfortable interior is underscored by its practical design. Take a look at some of the other design features and options for this car: Black Side Window Trim & Heated Power Mirrors VW Digital Cockpit Pro with Performance Monitor 19″ Two-Tone Diamond-Turned R-Design Alloy Wheels Test Drive the 2026 Volkswagen Golf R in Madison, WI Get a firsthand look at the 2026 Golf R when you visit Zimbrick Volkswagen of Madison. We're excited to introduce you to our full inventory of new Volkswagen cars for sale in Madison, WI. Also, take a look at our new Volkswagen specials before you visit for your test drive. *MSRP: Starting price represents the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the trim. The MSRP does not include destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer charges. Actual prices are set by the dealer and may vary. Photo is for marketing and example purposes only. Photo may not reflect starting MSRP or trim level.\n**EPA-estimated MPG for City/Highway for 2026 Volkswagen Golf R . Actual mileage will vary. Displayed MPG is based on applicable EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid models only) and other factors.

Jul 17, 2026

Take a Closer Look at the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

Not every car is a game-changer, but then again, not every car is the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan. Casual drivers and car enthusiasts alike have found their match in this SUV. To learn more about the new Tiguan, continue reading below. Inside the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Performance Numbers don't lie: The new Tiguan is an impressive driving machine. The powertrain is just part of the equation, with the potential to generate 201 horsepower and a maximum towing capacity of 1,800 lbs. when properly equipped. Even with all this capability in tow, the Tiguan still achieves optimal fuel economy. You'll find more available performance specs of this SUV below: Front-wheel drive Remote engine start 8-speed automatic transmission Technology The SUV segment is smarter than ever before, and the Tiguan just might be the head of its class. It's amenities like these that prove Volkswagen is all about the driver. This SUV also offers the following in the way of technology: Lower Anchors & Tethers for Children (LATCH) Anti-theft alarm system w/ engine immobilizer Advanced Airbag Protection System w/ 8 airbags including front center, rear side and driver knee airbags Design Look at the Tiguan, and you'll see an SUV that appears every bit as dynamic as it is. The only problem you'll find with the 73 cu ft of cargo volume in the Tiguan is deciding on what to do with all the space. Your passengers will appreciate the extra legroom and headroom during your next road trip. For an even more comprehensive list of available design features, read this list: Atmospheres mood selection Exterior illuminated door handles - Front and rear Remote power rear liftgate Find Your Volkswagen Tiguan near Sun Prairie, WI For a closer look at the 2025 Tiguan, pay us a visit at Zimbrick Volkswagen of Madison. Our inventory of new Volkswagen cars for sale is unmatched in this area. Before you visit us for your test drive, take a look at our new Volkswagen specials. *MSRP: Starting price represents the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the trim. The MSRP does not include destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer charges. Actual prices are set by the dealer and may vary. Photo is for marketing and example purposes only. Photo may not reflect starting MSRP or trim level.\n**EPA-estimated MPG for City/Highway for 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan . Actual mileage will vary. Displayed MPG is based on applicable EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid models only) and other factors.