Final answer:
The climate with large temperature variations between hot summers and cold winters is referred to as a Continental climate (Type D) according to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification.
Step-by-step explanation:
The climate characterized by wide variation in the average annual temperature range due to hot summers and cold winters is best described as a Continental climate (Type D). In the Köppen-Geiger climate classification system, Type D climates are known as Cold or continental climates, which exhibit significant temperature differences between seasons. In contrast to tropical (Type A) and polar (Type E) climates which respectively have consistently warm and cold temperatures year-round, or Mediterranean climates (Type C) that are known for dry and hot summers and mild winters, continental climates experience hot summers and cold winters, typifying regions that are further from the moderating influence of large bodies of water like oceans.
Additional factors can affect the local climate, such as elevation or proximity to coastal areas. However, the defining characteristic of a continental climate is the significant temperature variation between the hottest and coldest months. Areas like the interior regions of large landmasses, far from the sea, tend to have this type of climate. For example, parts of Europe like Poland can have warm summers and very cold winters due to their continental positioning.