roninlexus

Hi All- Looking for some personal experience if possible. I have a 13 ES 350. Test drove a 14 IS 350 yesterday. I don't have to tell you guys I noticed a difference. (lol) It was a "F" as well. I was looking for a few more ponies and AWD.(ie Infinity) I did not "feel" the AWD but did feel the more exact handling characteristics etc. The cockpit has an entirely different feel- almost more spartan if you will and while she was quick, it's not feeling (in a straight line) much more than the ES. I guess if anyone has comments (personal experience) about the car/switch it would be great to hear. I have had a 2nd car to get my fun from (last two were C5 Vettes) but wondering about one vehicle to provide the fun, some luxury, ability to hold 2 adults and three G-kids, AWD for winter (I'm in Colorado) and safety/reliability. This was a CPO car so If you guys mod the car (very popular in vette land) I'm not sure that is possible. A general response would be great, but I also listed a few questions below:
1. ES and IS engines are the same? What did they change- tune? I can't find this on line
2. AWD perform well in winter? I noticed this car has a "snow" mode
3. "F" and Sport+ worth it?
4. The IS 350C looks cool too- anyone go there?
5. Looks like if I go to IS, 2014 is the year. I buy used and it has some nice electronics performance "nannies" that help vs previous models

Thanks in advance- Michael