front suspension upgrade for '05 Prius

So I am wanting a change for my ride, quite litterally. I am looking for the best ride and handling for highway cruising. I also do not want to lower ride height as I drive this car in the winter and by winter I mean lots of snow. Currently my highway cruiser does fine on smooth rodes but gets a pounding on broken pavement or roads with many seams. There are too many, so many options (and brands) out there I don't even know where to start looking, springs or struts, aftermarket or factory, base or touring, the list goes on... Please give me some help to guide me in the right direction. Again smoothness and comfort are key.