rust proof + winter prep + coin wash + underbody spray and you're good to go for many years

 

What about AWD...? I always thought LSD was mandatory for AWD cars

 

If it snows hard and they dont clean the streets fast enough then it is hard to drive, especially on turns, but manageable. When roads are clean no problem, and I use all-season tires (IS350 RWD). Did not put any salt or sand to the trunk last year but this year I probably will.
So it depends how good your area is at plowing the snow from the streets.

 

Yeah it'll be tough. Throw some dedicated Blizzak snow tires on there. If your in NJ... honestly should've just stuck to a IS250 AWD. Yes i know, less power, less fun, but hey.. your in a state that snows and gets cold more often then others. With dedicated winter tires and like a 200LB bag of salt, you will be okay, far from easy.

 

No 2IS models come with LSD except the 2010+ IS F.

(That is speaking of the rear differential, the AWD Transfer Case does have a Limited Slip Differential).

Jeff