I am trying to justify going to AWD. Yes it snows occasionally in NJ, but that is when I would drive my FWD car. Is the added expense, weight, and decreased gas mileage worth the option?? Will i get any real tangible handling and riding boast? I have put a deposit down on the AWD IS250 but now I am getting second thoughts. Maybe I should go with the IS250 RWD completely maxed out or just say the hell with it and go with the IS350 and then live with a killer insurance premium. Decisions Decisions Decisions!

 

If you have a second car always available that you can use on the snow... Then Id have to say no?

Go with the IS350... you know youll be happier then!

 

Don't forget VDIM, which as many members who own or have testdriven the GS430 in the snow reported almost eliminates the need for AWD. Get the IS350!

 

I personally prefer the look of the larger 18" wheels than the 17" wheels; they fill out the wheel wells much better. Since you will only be able to get the 17" wheels with AWD and not the 18" ones, I would not get the AWD. Don't be worried about snow...just get a set of snow tires and the car should be able to handle anything. I know someone with a BMW M5 with huge 19" wheels and summer tires. In the winter he switches to 17" wheels with snow tires and the car has no trouble with ice and snow.