Newman154

Hello all, I'm a first time poster. I've owned a GS, ES and two RX's over the years and will buy my first LS this next year and am doing my research. A respected Comsumer's magazine rates the RWD 460 as its top luxury car in owner satisfaction, but the AWD 460 in a tie for 4th, 8 points lower (on a scale 1-100). I thought I wanted an AWD for the occasional snow (my current RX is AWD), my question is why are owners more satisfied with their RWD? Is it because it costs a little less, which certainly is more satisfying, or is there another reason that might affect my decision? Thanks for any help.

caha14

Hi and welcome to CL! Do a search for things like 'shudder' and 'hesitation'. Those may not be the only differentiators between AWD and RWD, but they do seem to be at the top of the list. Horsepower is also lower in the AWD, and I could definitely feel the difference.

Some AWD LS vehicles exhibit this "characteristic" shudder (that's what Lexus has been calling it) when accelerating slightly around the 40mph mark, and there are plenty of stories here about resolution/lack thereof and the pervasiveness of the issue. Some people's cars have never had it, others have had horrible experiences, and I personally drove a 2011 vehicle that did it and personally would have been very upset paying this kind of money for a new car that did this.

Just my 2 cents... Do a search and read further and see what you think. Good luck with your decision!

patgilm

There have been several here that have had some issues with the AWD system in the LS shuddering at certain speeds on inclines where it appeared the car was trying to find the correct gear to be in. I'm not sure if that is the reason for the lower points total or not. My AWD has been flawless so far but if I lived in a warmer climate no doubt I would get a RWD LS. It is faster and gets better gas mileage.