Do you see that written down anywhere in Lexus verbage?

While that would be awesome... i.. doubt it.

 

Hi GregCanada,

Found it in this press release and validated with my Lexus dealer before buying last week as Certified Pre-owned. They advised using in any slippery condition including heavy rain. There's much not advertised that's pretty cool about this car. It's in the Engine/Transmission section
http://pressroom.lexus.com/releases/...august2012.htm

 

The press release mentions that the car can split power 50/50, but I don't see where it links that to snow mode.

 

It's definitely true the that the AWD system can vary power from the 30/70 Front/Rear split to 50/50 as needed, but I haven't seen anything that states that the use of Snow Mode has any impact on that.

 

Yep. That's what I asked at the dealership and verified with other friends who are GS owners. Lexus told me the Snow Mode locks the 50/50. It's not a Subaru "...wheels that slip to the wheels that grip" system. So no, not in writing but no reason to not believe. Certainly recommend asking your local Lexus dealer technician. if someone can find additional details, that would be nice.

 

2013 advertised language:
An optional electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system can vary front-to-rear torque balance from 50/50 to as much as 30/70, depending on driving conditions, for exceptional control.

2017 advertised language:
For added grip in a variety of conditions – even perfectly dry – the Lexus GS 350 offers an available all-weather drive system featuring an electronically controlled center differential which provides a normal 30:70 torque split, with the rear-wheel bias favoring handling agility. The system reacts instantaneously to alter the split to as much as 50:50, depending on driving conditions, to help optimize traction.

This AWD feature reacts to driving conditions to optimize traction. It is entirely separate from the vehicle's 'Snow Mode'.