Traction. I live in eastern WA, & we have over a foot of snow, at least 4 inches on the roads constantly, there's been so many wrecks & car's stuck, makes traction the first choice here
I too use traction (either 4x4 or all wheel drive) as a main consideration when purchasing. I won't even look at a vehicle without this feature anymore. When that is done, then I look at quality and looks.