Regarding the snow, unless you plan on driving up the side of a snow covered mountain or something extreme, it is not necessary to have 4WD/AWD. Sure it helps but I found that having front wheel drive, larger wheels (taller), and a higher vehicle to be the most important factors in getting through unplowed roads. That 4runner should do nicely, but surprisingly cars with those specs and without 4WD do well enough.
Regarding Volvo, I always wanted a volvo as my first car but I ended up with an Accord and don't regret it. I certainly see the appeal of those European cars, but reliability is too big to ignore. Some positives about them is the traction control feature as well as having AWD and wagon options for good storage. But Abstract hit the nail on the head, as Ford bought Volvo in 1999 and it shows. Too bad to, they look nice.
Regardless of maker, keep some money back for the inevitable repair/maintanence. All cars need some form of work on a regular basis, just more often than others.
Regarding Volvo, I always wanted a volvo as my first car but I ended up with an Accord and don't regret it. I certainly see the appeal of those European cars, but reliability is too big to ignore. Some positives about them is the traction control feature as well as having AWD and wagon options for good storage. But Abstract hit the nail on the head, as Ford bought Volvo in 1999 and it shows. Too bad to, they look nice.
Regardless of maker, keep some money back for the inevitable repair/maintanence. All cars need some form of work on a regular basis, just more often than others.