I think you should go and drive a 2-3 year old Mercedes E320 Wagon. It is available in 4WD (this is the 4Matic option). These cars are bullet-proof and routinely run for over 300,000 miles. This is a $55k car that can be picked up a couple of years old with 30-40,000 miles on it for around the price of a loaded V6 Camery. There is just no comparison.

The US models are automatic only, unfortunately. They are quiet, comfortable, fuel efficient, safe, powerful, and built like a tank. They have among the higest reliability ratings of any car on the road. European cars tend to be narrower, as well. They also seat 7 (!) with a folding rear-facing seat in the back.

Really, trust me. Go and drive one. Probably the best built car on the road today, and definitely the safest.

Jim