finesta101

i prefer RWD over all AWD cars unless it's an Audi. Based on my experience lexus AWD vehicles aren't even that great just yet.

thegov3

I live in KC. Like Chicago, we get 5-10 snow events a year. Short lived snow for sure. But when it snows you certainly need AWD here. However, the wet traction in an AWD is a factor to consider as well. I have zero wheel slippage in any wet conditions. And we have a lot of rain events.

I drove several LS RWD and LS AWD cars before I bought my 09 AWD LS 460. Love the AWD. I used to have a Audi A6 so I was used to the traction and confidence that comes with the AWD. I leave my all season tires on and the LS's AWD is amazing in slippery conditions. I really didn't want to hassle with swapping out tires for snows each winter so I didn't buy a LS RWD (which I feel you have to do if you want your RWD LS to get decent traction up a hill in snow).

The LS AWD does feel heavier than the LS RWD. Plus, it swallows gas like I drink beer: quickly. But I like the fact that weather does not dictate my travel plans in the AWD LS. I also feel safer in wet conditions. There is no question in my mind that the extra price for the AWD is worth it...to me.

luxou812

For many years now, both my 97 LS400 and 04 LS430 have been sure-footed mountain goats when outfitted with good, newer snow tires, and 100 lbs in the trunk. Absolute peace-of-mind in northeast Ohio's snow-belt winters. Would rather have this set-up than AWD with the all-season tires I see on most of them. I wouldn't want to give up the turning radius or highway performance for AWD. Not to mention the maintenance. Guess I'm a RWD guy.

WhitBaby

I have an '08 LS...didn't think the '08's had the AWD.

I run X-ice snow tires in the winter and between them and the 'snow' switch we never get stuck or lose control enough to cause the major muscle groups to twitch.
I live just west of Denver and we probably get as much snow as anyone. When we get the 12"+ snows we take the 4WD Taco.