We got our Honda CRV for specifically the reason you mentioned - 4-wheel drive and handling in the snow. Bought it in January of 2003, and it has performed fabulously well uphil and downhill on on corners in the snow. It drives like a car, not a truck, has a very smooth ride, and is basically great! They also have an excellent reputation for longevity, which is good, as I do not like to shop for a new vehicle every few years.