While it wasn't snowing during the week of my Avant test drive, I'm sure it would react to foul weather much the same given the right set of snow tires. My test car was fully equipped, including optional 17-inch rims wrapped with P235/45R17 tires that come as part of the $1,400 sport package. The package also includes a sport-tuned suspension that truly makes a difference in performance. The ride is slightly firmer, positive or negative depending on personal taste, but improves high-speed handling due to its minimal roll during sharp corners.
My test car also included the $1,565 Premium Package that adds an integrated garage door opener, 12-way power driver's seat and a power glass sunroof with sunshade. While the garage door opener would be useless to me in my covered parking spot, the multi-adjustable driver's seat is incredibly comfortable and breath-of-fresh-air sunroof most appreciated. It's the most flexible of its kind available, offering a myriad of opening positions via its rotating dial switch.