Brad2001

Hello all,

I’m a first time poster, long time viewer… I don’t have a Lexus just yet but I am planning to purchase one within the next couple of months. I’m stuck on the IS 250, but I am torn between the RWD and AWD.

My question to everyone is this… regardless to which IS 250 you actually own, which IS 250 is better overall purchase, the RWD or AWD?

Below are some of the differences I have noted between the AWD and RWD. With a $2,500 higher price tag over the RWD, why should I purchase an AWD when I can get much of the same performance with a RWD on snow roads if I equipped the RWD with the appropriate tires?
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AWD systems are good on all types of surfaces, both on- and off-roads. Good system for snow and icy roads. With the IS 250, an AWD carries a MSRP at about $34,184.

RWD systems have better handling in dry conditions. The more even weight distribution and weight transfer improves the handling of the car. Does not does well on snow and icy roads, but this can be improved with the appropriate tires. With the IS 250, an RWD system carries a MSRP at about $31,725.

Comparison: The IS 250 RWD has a $2,460 less MSRP then the AWD. The RWD has 17 more miles cruising range in the city then AWD. The RWD has 51 more miles cruising range on the highway then the AWD.

I only know what I see on paper, I haven’t driven either extensively in various weather conditions to make an informed decision. I am torn between the two… I need help!



Sincerely,
One indecisive U.S. Sailor!

is2seattle

iTrader: (1)

AWD!!! Good control in both snow and wet conditions

canadaIS

I went through the same decision process as you are going through and chose the RWD. I live in a very snowy climate (Ottawa) and have had no problems, including driving in 8 inches of snow on a windy highway during a major storm in December. Sure, the AWD would be a bit better in the snow, but as you say, there is a price premium and poorer gas mileage. I have had other 2 other RWD Lexus's (GS300 and GS430) and they were fine in the snow too.

Joeb427

iTrader: (1)

Won't you take a hit on resale or trade in with a 250 rwd in Canada,tho?

canadaIS

Joeb427:

I am leasing the car, so not an issue. I believe the RWD outsells the AWD in Canada, however.

Chancellor

iTrader: (2)

I would go with the 250 AWD. This will be my next car.

Joeb427

iTrader: (1)

Yes,it wouldn't be an issue then.
Odd the 250 RWD outsells the AWD in Canada.
250 RWDs aren't even alloted to dealers from Virginia up the coast and inland to Canada.

canadaIS

Joeb427:
I stand to be corrected on which model sells better in Canada. I think I have seen the numbers in the past, but not completely sure. But the Canadian market is very price sensitive, so it makes sense.

ReLexin

AWD. Get all year round with no worries.

rdgdawg

Ditto......

rroy

iTrader: (1)

I went with the rwd because of the 6speed option. For winter conditions, I use my stock 17" rims with nokian snow tires. My car is also lowered and Ive had zero problems regarding traction. I recommend the RWD, especially since you live in virginia. Take the money you will save to buy summer wheels; and get winter tires (if you feel it's even necessary).

Electric

I love the AWD. Ive had two previous AWD cars and Ill probably have another someday. It rains here in NJ a decent amount and since I do just about nothing but city driving, having the AWD just makes it so much easier to drive in the rain and around turns without spinning wheels. I hate spinning wheels... I get reminded of my 97 GST Eclipse with 400fwhp :-)

JensBoo

I would say for where you live AWD is better. For me out in Phoenix we have no snow worries so it wasn't worth the extra money. I don't think there are many AWD's out here anyway.

Brian231

I live in Chicago and had the genertation one IS and surprisingly, I did well with not getting stuck because I put on Continental Extreme Contact tires and had the Torsion limited slip. Then the one day the car kicked out a bit into the oncoming lane with black ice. I then knew I would buy the AWD which I am happy with. I have had it for 8 months and it goes through everything. Sure, if I did not live in a snowbelt state, I would have opted for the RWD. I strongly reccomend this AWD for anyone above 32 degrees latitude. The car does not feel as heavey as most AWD's. Very safe vehicle for traction.

TAP4636

I got the AWD. If I wanted a RWD, I would have gotten the 350. The only reason to get the 250 in my opinion is for the AWD option. I'm all about safety and good handling in the bad weather.