We have the new Berlingo, in XTR Rossignol limited edition guise. It's fwd but has different modes, off road, snow etc on the ESP, higher clearance than normal model, sumpguard, sensible 'all weather tyres'(Michelin Lattitude) ok they're not snow tryres but we shall see.

Seemed like a good option for us up in the hills above Grenoble. Doubt it will beat the wife's old 206 in the snow though.

old style 4×4 panda or the old 4wd kangoo are highly rated here too.

It's silly looking but we have a Jimny (55 reg, 22k miles) and it is utterly amazing off road. Light, tiny overhangs, good clearance. Makes a mockery of most off roaders that weight many tonnes. Also tiny so easy to park and very very reliable – ours is a softop and I left the roof open recently. It poured with rain, the car got soaked inside, everything works fine. Also handy just not worrying about it in car parks and the like.

Grim for any journeys over about 50 miles but as a fun runaround that won't break down and is extremely capable off road, hard to beat.