bigislandboy99 
2009 Toyota Matrix Hatchback S 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
Great for snow
 I've been waiting to test the AWD and I finally got my wish!  Snows and compact ice has been all around the renton are for the past two weeks.  This matrix AWD S has had no problems getting around. It is very controllable and predictable, even with a foot of snow with the standard AWD.  Car is great in normal weather as well.  Its great for hauling people around and lots of room for a "compact" vehicle.  Road noise can be pretty bad, especially on the rough free ways in Seattle.  The gas mileage could be a little better and/or a little large gas tank.  Overall very pleased and glad i got it for this region.  