An AWD vehicle is a key consideration for areas with snow. For a family of 5, a CUV (Forester, Rogue, CRV, etc) will do or maybe a midsize SUV (4Runner, Pathfinder, Pilot, Explorer). I have lived in snowy areas before (Midwest and Northeast US) and AWD is a blessing but it will not be of help if you run into black ice or powder dry snow (lost traction).

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An AWD vehicle is a key consideration for areas with snow. For a family of 5, a CUV (Forester, Rogue, CRV, etc) will do or maybe a midsize SUV (4Runner, Pathfinder, Pilot, Explorer). I have lived in snowy areas before (Midwest and Northeast US) and AWD is a blessing but it will not be of help if you run into black ice or powder dry snow (lost traction).