That's possible? The power steering is probably the biggest user of power afaik. Or probably just cold,thick grease in the steering rack,steering column, steering shaft u-joints,etc... Nothing works properly in -40.
I find the steering in my 2014 is stiff compared to a 2017 with similar mileage that I just drove. Mine doesn't return to center but the 17' did just like a real car. I know things changed for 17' but can't remember/don't know what. Power steering module programing or steering motor changes? The parts all look the same. I've never compared part numbers. One year I might look into that further...
And I agree with the sluggish cvt in the cold(-20c/-4f and colder mostly) it takes a long time for the cvt fluid to get warm.