I dunno if I agree with that; I drive back and forth from the bay area to Tahoe area several times a year, mostly in winter months. In the past, I would rent a 4WD SUV for the trip (variety of makes and models). A year and a half ago I bought a Mercedes sedan (with 4WD) and that drive is way more comfortable and stable now.

Maybe I just had bad luck with the rentals I chose?