AWD Car for my Mom

The automotive specialist in our family, my dad, died in June. My mom needs to buy a new car for driving around Salt Lake City. I live in New York City, do not own a car, and don't have much knowledge about current makes and models (other than what I see in the constant ads on TV).

I am hoping this forum could help me narrow down the massive range of vehicles.

Things that are important to my mom:

1) AWD or 4WD - Utah usually gets a lot of snow and while she will mostly be driving on the freeways and highway she never wants to get stuck somewhere.

2) Saftey - She is 5'3" and is concerned that a sedan crash would leave the engine in her midsection. I have no idea if this is true or just an idea she got somewhere. At any rate, she wants something safe for short people.

3) Seats 5 - She ports my brother, niece and grand parents around. So it should comfortably seat 5.

4) Resale value - Due to some credit issues she cannot lease a vehicle but her idea is to get a new one every 5 years or so in order to minimize maintenance issues. She can pay cash for one now but I want to make sure she loses as little money as possible 5 years down the road when she sales it or turns it in.

5) Gas mileage - Her previous car is a Jeep and gets about 20 mpg. It would be great for her to have something that did better.

6) Cost - Probably looking in the $25K range. Open to the idea of Certified Pre-Owned programs if they make sense.

Thank you to anyone who could help us through this a little. It's a daunting task especially without my dad.

I suggest your look for a CPO Toyota 4Runner with the 6 in it. My daughter has one and it's been a very competent vehicle. Should fill the bill for you.

Regards:
Oldbearcat