With all the new safety and stability features in the IS 250 RWD, how do you think it will handle in the snow? I want the 6MT and I know there is a AWD out there.

 

control. Ok in light snow, but for best control, snow tires on all four wheels, I've driven 4wd bmw 325i in snow with regiular m&s tires, it was not great in snow either,

 

My 250 AWD isn't due into the dealership until next week. I've driven my BMW 325xi for 3 full years, in the snow, with the OEM tires on it without any problems. In fact, I'm hoping that the 250AWD can do the same thing.

Of my AWD high performance cars, my Eagle Talon TSI was great in the snow; my Mitsu 3000 GT VR4 was pitiful in the snow as is my Audi S4 Quattro. My Audi A4 Quattro and BMW 325xi were great in the snow. The A4, Subaru Legacy, and the 325xi were pretty underpowered. Presumably, because the 250AWD has pretty good performance, it may be a little more of a challenge in the snow. Shouldn't be that long before we know.

I did check on www.tirerack.com and they have snow tires and wheels for something like $700 so that is an option, albeit an expensive one.

 

but i should be ok with RWD on the IS, compared to say a RWD G35??

 

Just buy real snow tires. Not M+S. Best real snow tires I have used are Bridgestone Blizzak WS50. There is huge difference in snow with real snow tires.

 

AWD isn't going to help you if you have summer tires on the car. AWD with all-season tires will be adequate. AWD with 4 winter tires is best. RWD with all-season is not good. RWD with 4 winter tires is best. The bottom line is it comes down to the tire.