[egleson]

I'm in the process of buying a 2009 Outlook. I'm torn between FWD and AWD. I'm from MI, so snow can be an issue from time to time. Anyone drive a FWD Outlook in the snow? How does it handle? Pros/Cons? Any suggestions would be appreciated!

 

[lewisr]

Just like every other front wheel drive I've owned, it is more than sufficient 99.9% of the time in Michigan. I would not buy an AWD if that is your only reason, spend the extra $ on some nice extras.

 

[eelfliw]

AWD will get you moving in the snow better than FWD. That said, it won't help you stop any better in the snow. In fact, with the extra few hundred pounds of weight the AWD has, it makes the vehicle harder to stop than a lighter vehicle.

Some drivers are fooled by the better traction of the AWD into thinking that their vehicles has more grip than FWD vehicles in every situation. But that does not apply when you try to stop the vehicle.

 

[SilverXR]

I agree with all the comments here, but it is Always good to now you have AWD. If you cannot stop in time, most likely you were not driving cautiously according to the conditions. The big mistake is people think they can get comfortable, regardless of any FWD, AWD/4WD.

Point given, having AWD is not about stopping issues, it is more for traction. Stopping the car is all about the driver and driving accordingly. Will you get better traction with AWD than FWD...of course.

 

[Dai_Shan]

After one Minnesota winter - I was plenty happy with the front wheel drive. Always have been happy with FWD in the snow in the past especially with decent tires (fresh tread).