[Brian Cameron]

OK, seriously, used to have a volvo 850AWD, one of the very few standard transmissions they made in this model. With good winter tires, it was unbelievable in the snow. It simply would not get stuck.

However I can't vouch for the quality of what Volvo / Ford is making now. We did have a lot of electrical problems with that beast, one of the reasons it was the last Volvo I have owned (and I've owned 7 of them since 1982).

Maybe they're OK again but I'd check the Consumers ratings on a X-Country or similar to be sure.

On the tires, I'd second the Nokian Hakkepellitas or however you spell that, especially the speed rated RSI model. They should make winter hiking boots with that compound and tread pattern, no one would ever slip and fall again. Ever.