2007 CRV. Alloy vs Steel wheels

I am considering a 2007 CRV and was going to get a 2WD EX but now I am
deciding on getting a 4WD LX. I drive in light snow sometimes and heavy
rain quite a bit.

A couple of questions:

1) I read that 4WD is actually not too good on the CRV--has the 2007
improved?
2) Is there any benefit to getting the Alloy wheels over steel?

 

On alloy wheels, they are lighter and theoretically gives you more sprung
rate for a better ride but most people doubt that translates to anything in
real life driving. Some people believe alloy wheels leak more air but I've
never seen it.

 

Friends of mine have an AWD CRV in Syracuse, NY for about 4 years. Does
OK in snow on paved roads. A Subaru would be better but the price was
right on the Honda.

Perhaps your focus should be on replacement tires to maximize wet road
traction.

 

Actually a lighter wheel will result in LESS Unsprung Weight. Less Unsprung
Weight is better for handling and ride quality. I don't think you would be
able to tell the difference, between alloy and steel rims (tires being the
same), in a blind test. The EX might have a slightly "better" tire than the LX
too.

Alloy wheels tend to be dimensionally superior to steel wheels.

Buy the EX and swap the alloy to steel either at the dealer or private party.

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Indeed it is the proportion that counts of sprung weight versus unsprung
weight.