I actually drove my AWD hybrid 2.0 miles on an unmaintained winter road with 6-8 inches of snow. This was in Pa. when I was driving out to Crystal Lake Ski Area and accidentally followed my GPS device instead of the stated direction. This road climbed nearly 1000 feet and ended at a snowmobile club where a real road existed and took me to the ski area. In a way it was stupid on my part, I should of back down early in the drive but instead thought I was only a couple hundred feet away. To answer your question, yes the tires are darn good winter tires. The TripleTeads and Nokian WR are the two only all season tires that carry the mountain and snowflake label indicating they meet severe winter conditions.

2005 AWD Escape Hybrid
Best Interstate tank trip MPG 39.02 (scangauge II) for 402 miles on I-70, 10.3 gallons used over mostly flat terrain.

Best Interstate tank trip E30 MPG 34.6 for 271 miles along I-80 in Indiana and Ohio.

Best multiple road tank trip E30 MPG 36.2 for 202 miles in Southwestern Pa.