I wouldn't write off FWD. If you live in snow country, get a set of dedicated snow tires. Modern traction control systems, coupled with modern snow tires (such as Bridgestone Blizzaks just to name a brand) are VERY SAFE. Especially when combined with a lower center of gravity in a car based vehicle.

I for one choose my SAAB 9-5 Sportwagon with snows, over my in-laws Isuzu Rodeo (AWD), for driving in the snow. That might open up your choices a bit more. FWIW, SAABs drop in value like a stone. I purchased mine "used certified" with a 6 year (from original purchase) 100K mile bumper-to-bumper warranty for less than 1/2 the original price.