[anthpalisade]

AWD is helpful. There is a reason why its tough to get FWD cars where people know the value of AWD. The cost difference is small around $!500. Some concern for longevity of AWD vs FWD. I would say for now thats one reason we choose a car with a 10 year/100K warranty. To each their own.

 

[anthpalisade]

Should be the same in general. As all the cars seem to come on variable rubber even for the same model hard to compare. I would say that 18 versus 20s makes some difference as well. If I am not mistaken 18s are slightly better for certain conditions.

 

[anthpalisade]

I'm sure you wlll very happy. You can always buy better tires for a FWD car though it does not sound like you need them. There are snow/mountain rated all weather tires that have the mountain/snow symbol. Has been debated here/elsewhere and spoken about on CR. Snows and mountain/snow rated all weather tires provide better handling in snow and more conditions respectively. AWD really only specializes in getting moving in snow or uphills where you need 4 pulling wheels. Last as I am sure your aware AWD is not quite the same is 4WD but that is another topic.