I have a CRV, it is a great snow and ice car. The AWD gives better
traction than the 4wd as it sends the power to the non-slipping wheels. This is why so many folks are recommending the limited
slip diff on the trucks. I had a chevy truck with limited slip
differential, but it worked only when moving. If you were already
stuck it was no help.

Another plus for the CRV is it is one of the few cars with front and back independent suspension which gives even better grip.

For any smaller car, a Thule box, Yakima box etc. on top gives tremendous extra space. Stuff like extra gas etc. is out of the passenger compartment too.

The main drawbacks I see to the new CR-V's, Subaru's etc is lack of
a low range and you can only run cable chains. But I feel a lot safer on icy roads than when I am driving my 4wd pickup or the
Ford explorer. Offroad the pickup is my choice. A double set of
really big chains will get you anywhere short of where a Unimog
will get you. http://www.offroad-trailer.com/readride/tommy-unimog.jpg

My Dad did budgeting for the US Forest Service in Washington State. Here was the list of durability of their vehicals (Trucks
and SUV's), with
most durable first.
Toyota
Nissan
Chevy
Ford/Mazda
Jeep
Dodge