I just purchased a 2009 IS 250AWD. Before hand, I had a demo 2008 model for a couple days. Does any one know what they changed on the 2009 models? I swear it handles and steers differently (better). The ride even seems modestly improved. The 2008 model felt nervous and twitchy on worn pavement and followed ruts. The 09 doesn't seem to do this.

????

 

i dont know the differences but try doing a search... ive seen plenty of threads talking about the changes

 

09 has the body refresh. Revised Dash, new colors. I think the 09 had the steering ratio tuned. What kind of demo did you have? It could be because you have AWD and smaller tires then a regular RWD 250.

 

Very very little changed with the suspension. No one has been able to make a direct comparison or prove the cause. I'd have to chalk it up to the tire size.

 

different steering feel from 08

 

 

the famous digital clock for 09 looks uglier?

 

Excellent comparison shots.
The first pic really shows how it became less edgy for 2009. Less pitch and angle below the foglights, less of a "plow" look, and less diagonal cuts for the lower airtake area. I'd sum it up by saying it looks a bit tidier and cleaner, but a tad plainer and more formal.
FWIW, the dash pic should say "2006-2008" on the left.
Thanks for posting them.

 

The numerals are the same font, but they made them turquoise blue. I wonder if they still look pink when the sun hits the display.

 

The digital clock is still white I guess, it's just a stupid picture.

 

The 2009 I sat in at the autoshow was definitely blue.

 

I kinda like the blue.

 

nice comparo photos, rashoodz!

 

i know for a fact they changed the front bumper.. so dont buy the ings+1 lip. uhh will someone please buy this thing!!??

 

Another thing I noticed in the 09's is that we can shift down via the paddle shifter in D mode while moving. It makes downshifting a lot easier without shifting to S mode.