OK, I am going to jump into the FWD versus RWD debate and state that I hate them both. Unless it is dry streets or wet streets at the most, they both have positives and negatives.
FWD, I see the benefits in Snow and Ice, but for most people they do not drive in that and this leaves them with what I see as a big downside. Torque steer, I am big and strong, but feel one should never have their steering wheel whipped out of their hands if you punch hard on the gas pedal. Love the lack of a bump in the floor for more leg room, but the whole Torque Steer that even 4 bang econo box's have is a deal breaker as I feel it is a safety hazard.
RWD, Unless the auto has a posi rear end, I hat that in snow or ice you give it some gas and your ass comes around to kiss your face. That whole passenger rear tire thing sucks for handling. For Pickups especially a lite ass means you flail all over.
Answer: AWD - AWD is the bomb and why I only have it as my auto's to drive. Personally I see no reason not to have it in all Auto's since it is the ultimate in traction and safety be it dry, wet, snow or ice. One down side is reduced MPG. But then personal quality of life / safelty is far more important than fuel efficiency in my book. You cannot replace a loved one or take an injury away by driving an Eco Box Coffin on Wheels.
So I will stick with my Escalade ESV Platinum and the rest of my AWD vehicles / 4x4's for ultimate safety.
AWD ROCKS!!!