Old Poulan Counter Vibe 3400 and Craftsman equivalent

The Envoy is built on a truck platform, body on frame construction. It has a truck drivetrain with a transfer case and live rear axle. You're correct in stating you don't really need all that if you don't tow, or off-road, etc.

The Traverse and Equinox will be All Wheel Drive all the time. My wife's Terrain (same vehicle as the Equinox) is great in the snow or driving in other slippery conditions, just get the V6 if you with the Terrain/Equinox. Other owners report similar or better mileage than she gets with the 2.5L 4 cyl and there is a big difference in the go power too.