. . . that you don't mind driving around when there's no snow.

I have a Hyundai Tucson, 6 cyl., lockable 4WD, electronic stability control w/ all-season snow tires (Nokian WR G2) and I been quite disappointed with its performance in the snow. I've seen Subaru Outbacks eat my lunch in bad storms (and I bet they were just on all-season tires). My previous car, a Honda CR-V (with Nokian WR), was way better in the snow (I gave it to my daughter -- damn ).

Please share your experiences about good snow cars that you don't hate to drive when there's no snow. Anybody want to rave about Subarus, RAV-4's, pickup trucks, etc. I know how good Jeeps are (long ago I knew 2 brothers who had a CJ-5 and a CJ-7 -- incredible in snow, sand, etc.) but I don't want to drive one every day.

I don't actually rave about our CRV but I think it's a good compromise. We need a good highway car, with decent cargo room, that can get up that steep driveway at the end of drive.

To me....being somewhat gas mileage obsessed....the choice has always been between the Outback and the CRV. We are actually on our second CRV and I think the old one was easier to get up the driveway. It was really underpowered, which made it less likely that the wheels would break loose if you hit the gas too hard.

If I actually LIVED in the North Country full time...it would be Outback all the way. The Outback AWD system is definitely better than the system in the CRV if traction is the primary concern.

The CRV sacrifices some traction for fuel efficiency. Essentially it's a bigger car with the same MPGs as an Outback and significantly more cargo room. If I didn't have to truck the family from NJ to North River 20 times a year...it would be Outback all the way. The last 150 feet up that steep slick driveway....in the CRV...it's just a little too much excitement for my taste. The Subies make it up with more confidence.

I've driven a CRV since 2004 and always found it to do fine in winter conditions.

I just bought a Subaru Forester and can't wait to dive it this winter, I've heard good things.

Check out and do your research on Subies, you wont regret it. That car is built for snow, they only build AWD cars for a reason---they're good at it!!! 2010 Foresters are on the ground and the new 2010 legacy/outback will be hear in 3wks. Good luck!!!