TRDCelica

Hi everyone,

First post here. Been driving a 2000 Celica GT throughout university and I recently got recruited and found a great job. (I live in Toronto)

With my parents help and my own salary, I am now looking for a new Lexus IS.

Im debating whether to get a IS250AWD or IS350.

I want an IS250AWD for better traction on our horrible snowy seasons. (No snow yet, but all Toronto citizens know when the snows starts to come down, it pours).

But at the same time, I want the IS350 for the sheer power.

So the question is, what do Canadians think about getting an IS350 vs IS250AWD?
Is RWD + snow tires adequate?

My friend is a great driver and has a MT IS300 with Pirelli winters, and he says that his car still handles terribly in the snow.

Similar to another friend that drives a C230 coupe with winters, says that his RWD car is terrible in the snow.

What are your opinions? Safety does matter to me first. I rather be driving a slower car then end up in an accident.

Thanks!

LexusNut13

I drive on the highway a lot so I opted for the AWD. The extra power wasn't that important to me. Even with the AWD I put snows on. I couldn't tell you how it is yet, as we haven't seen snow yet. But others have posted that their cars handled just fine even with the stock all seasons.

If you go for the 350, you would almost defenitly need snow tires. You would also have to be more carefully, but you can pull it off no question. If you really want the power I wouldn't let the winter season discourage you from getting the 350.

TorontoIS

I had always driven FWD cars for years and had never owned a RWD car until now. I purchased an IS 350 and live in Toronto. I had the car delivered with 17" snows on it in November and have been expecting and thus far not getting snow. I can't comment on the intelligence of having a RWD car in Toronto from firsthand experience, but friends who have always had RWD cars here have all said the same thing. The RWD car will be fine as long as you have snows. It will certainly stop better than FWD with all seasons on it, and likely go better as well.

TRDCelica

Its almost Christmas and we have barely even seen snow in Toronto.

totalstu

Or -20 degree weather

GSE25

I guess you answered your own question there
But let me tell you, last year when I picked up the awd, I still slid around in the snow with the brand new all-seasons that came with the car. This happened even under very gentle throttle application.

markyboy

Do a search for snow tires you will find lots of information. I have a 350 and live in Calgary (we get lots of snow here too) none right now though. Snow tires are a must. I have never driven an awd car in the snow but the 350 with snow tires is more than adequate for Calgary winters. If you can afford it you may regret not getting the 350. The power is awesome. Just drive slow in winter.

clubfoot

With winter tires the car is transformed, no problems if you drive smooth and use snow mode if you have to, and I have 18" winter tires.

totalstu

I keep on asking the dealer, and I'm ready to spend the money, but they tell me I'll be good as they had no issues last year with the all season tires and snow.

phatboyc

More secure? Well that depend on the driver. I have four snows and I drive prudent in winter. Never cause me any problems before with my last two RWD car's. When you press on the brakes both IS are equal. For me, it was a no question. The engine is a blast and worth every penny.

zazzn

when i was driving my supra in the snow. it was ****.... I recommend a few sand bags in the trunk to help. Howerver, trac and all these new elctro gismos help RWD cars in the snow.

SY300

I drive my IS300 with winters and I still slip. In the snow, I have to drive like a grandma.

clubfoot

What's the weight distribution on an IS300?

TRDCelica

54/46 front to rear according to the web.

CDN_Lexus

Invest in a good set of snows and drive according to weather conditions and you should be fine.