[SeeGeeWhy]

So my current lease is coming up December next year, but my warranty is up in June. Its an MB ML350 that has had quite a few trips to the dealership in order to have relatively major work done given its age and mileage - generally speaking I am finding its not a great cold weather performer either. Lets just say I am not overly enthusiastic to go back to that manufacturer after my most recent experience.

In my search for a new vehicle I've got only a few requirements. It must have a great all-wheel drive system, no trouble in cold weather, enough space for a family (kid and dogs), and good reports for durability.

Ideally I'm considering a purchase over a lease, and I'd like the vehicle to last for 10 years.

I am considering adding a towing capacity requirement as I'd like to be able to get some toys like a camping trailer or boat within the next 10 years and don't want to have to buy an accompanying vehicle just to do so.

We don't drive a lot - our annual milage is well under the 20,000km/year average, but we do take road trips and we bring a lot of crap with us.

Basically I've read about the two different classes of AWD systems - one class is not engaged at all times and is a feedback based system, the other is engaged all the time and while it spends more fuel it tends to deliver superior handling and safety.

What are people's recommendations and experiences with their AWD vehicles?

Obviously I am drifting towards Subaru right off the bat, but I haven't been in the market for a while and haven't been able to keep up with other manufacturers offerings.