And I don't have the budget for a Countryman
So my mini question is would I be satisfied with a FWD Mini in the sometimes cold and snowy North Coast (160+ inches of white stuff here last winter)
The car would have to sit out, AUTO is a must (for wife insurance). Budget is a limitation.
Ok Mini Maniacs how about a recommendation? bueler, bueler?

 

If the snow is not deep (as in graded-off), a new MINI with winter tires installed will do well on snow-covered roads. MINI's stability control, traction control, and ABS work well. My MINIs have gone straight-and-true when 4-wheel drive SUVs were going sideways. Deep snow is another issue, since there's not a lot of clearance under the car.