I'm Tempted To Trade My Car In For Something All Wheel Drive

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

I've only owned one truck in my life. It was NOT a four wheel drive...but it was really handy. Of course...that was before I had 3 kids. There really wasn't any room in it for more than a couple people comfortably.

THIS WINTER MAKES ME THINK ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF AWD

I'm not the most educated when it comes to vehicles. I couldn't change my oil or a tire if my life depended on it. I sort of know how...but I can't ever get anything loosened up enough to make any headway.

That's the least of my worries right now. I'm thinking..Winters like this make it almost necessary to have All Wheel Drive or Four Wheel Drive. Am I Right? I live IN St. Cloud, and I've been stuck in my own driveway twice in February.

AWD VS FRONT WHEEL DRIVE

So...my question is....am I just fine with my front wheel drive car? I guess...most of the time...sure. BUT...if I had an AWD vehicle, would I have been stuck in my driveway? What other reason do you get AWD or 4 Wheel Drive?

REASONS TO STAY WITH FRONT WHEEL DRIVE

It's an easier system, so cheaper to maintain over the life of the vehicle.
It's way better on gas mileage.
There's more leg room for backseat passengers
Has better traction climbing hills
Typically a good choice for people who live in dry, rainy, or light snow conditions most of the time. Is that us?

REASONS TO HAVE AWD

No matter what, it improves the driving experience when you are in heavy or light snowy conditions, and common off road conditions; like if you like exploring in the wilderness.
It's better for traction when you take off; but not necessarily in snowy conditions.

ALTERNATIVES

Snow tires might be the alternative to me purchasing an AWD vehicle. I'm so glad I didn't just lose my mind Saturday and trade in my 'most of the time' awesome Impala. A much cheaper option, and probably more effective, would be for me to invest in a great set of snow tires. They can be expensive...but dang...they aren't as much as AWD vehicle that's going to cost me more to fix, more in gas, and more to keep running, with less leg room. Okay. For me....I'm sticking with my front wheel drive. It makes more sense...MOST OF THE TIME.