I'm considering picking up a 2007 gs350, but it's AWD.

I really don't need AWD but it's there.

will it be more of a burden or a nice feature ? please advise. thanks

 

if you don't need AWD, get RWD. The AWD system itself does not have problems, but you suffer from a higher ride height, less sensitive steering, more weight (200 lbs) which leads to slower acceleration (about .1 seconds more to 60 and 1 mpg less). It's fairly transparent, if i still lived up north, im sure I would appreciate it more. But it's a total waste for me in the South.

 

There are no problems with the AWD system that I've ever had or heard about.

 

I haven't had any issues associated with my AWD system (other than the vibrations after lowering). If you don't need it, don't get it. Its 1 more system that will need maintenance and can issues. Besides, I would have to have to look at that higher ride height on the AWD if i didn't have to

 

According to your profile you live in NY. If that is the case, I'd argue you need AWD.

 

Your in ny bro, get it. And with all those pot holes.....

 

I have awd and I live in Florida. I've been very happy with it, and I believe it handles better in the rain as well. I've had plenty of rwd cars in the past and hated the fish tailing. I'm never scared to accelerate in the rain with the awd. Just my .02

 

AWD has it's challenges with lowering without vibrations according to many who do it, but I had no issues although I was only on RCA blocks. I am giving up my GS 300 due to tranny issues starting to surface now that im at 100k, but I would def get any of the 350s AWD.

 

On our 2nd GS AWD, first was a 300, latest is a 2010 350, both have been flawless. Great cars and with sometimes snow, and lots of rain here in the PacificNW, the AWD is great!

 

I also live in FL and agree with your comments completely.

 

i have an awd and the only problem i have is the wobble and vibrations after lowering on springs.

other than that i have used figs lower arm bushing mount to significantly reduce the wobble and vibrations. its still there but its at a minimum where i dont even realize it anymore.

oh you may also realize that exhausts systems are hard to find and may have to do some customization.

 

Where did you get these bushings if you don't mind.

 

i haven't had any problems with my AWD system. with all the snowfall NY gets i love having that extra security. i've lowered the front 20mm using RCA blocks and haven't had any problems with suspension.

 

I got the car guys, I'm actually living in the west coast now so no snow now.

but the AWD is pretty tight. there is very minimal body roll when taking corners.

the car is fully loaded even for a 2007 model. I'm really enjoying it.

 

I'm glad you got the car; you will not be disappointed. I have a 2010 (bought used in 2013) and a year later (in 2014) convinced my parents to buy one. They love theirs as well.

I have used RCA suspension components but looking back I think I'm going to do it the "right way" and have lowered (maybe F-sport springs) along with Koni shock absorbers. I use Koni's on my Porsche 944 turbo and they are superb.

I'm curious as to what you consider very minimal body roll. I always feel like I'm going to roll over. The VSC always bleeps and signals at me when I try to have fun (when no one is around of course). Without sacrificing too much comfort you could go with larger anti-roll bars front and rear. I'm not sure what the stock values are but as an example if the front were 18mm go for 21mm and if the rear was a 20mm sway bar go for a 23mm.

I've had my car is now at 87k and it has been very well maintained. No problems whatsoever including transmission, brakes, etc. One thing I have been disappointed about is the amount of corrosion on the undercarriage. My Acura TL from 2008 which has been subjected to the same winter conditions for many more years is near factory perfect. Never could figure that out.

Enjoy!