That's a great endorsement for the Conti's especially in areas that don't get a lot of snow...or if you get caught in an early snow/ice storm prior to swapping.

The AWD system is going to already be a benefit for this vehicle...but dedicated snow tires will also not just benefit traction for accelerating etc...but it will also benefit (decrease) stopping distance as well as help with turning.

It still may be worth mounting your dedicated winter tires (if you have some) because of the stopping/turning benefits...sometimes its not our driving that is the issue...but the other crazy drivers out there. You may need to do a quick maneuver that includes braking/swerving/turning/accelerating to get out of harms way...and the rubber compound and other features of a dedicated snow tire might be what saves your bacon.

Just a thought...but again, thanks for the testimonial about the Contis...it definitely puts them on my "tires with potential" list for 20" tire upgrade.