My 2005 LS 430 seemed to do fine in the recent NY snow...snow mode helped as did the stabilization system.

I've a friend who sold his 2000 LS 400 because of horrible snow performance. I keep telling him the new one is much better but of course, he's skeptical.

The question is: did the snow performance change because of improvements in the handling or electronics, or do my friend and I just have different driving skills and/or expectations. Can I point him to any concrete differences?

 

The electronic nannies in the newer models help but a set of dedicated snow tires will transform a car from a slippery noodle into a much safer snow vehicle. Common sense and relaxed driving habits in the snow go a long way to getting around as well. I happen to have a second vehicle (Explorer) at my disposal for serious snow days.

Bruce

 

Do you know the differences in the electronic 'nannies' from 2000 to the current model? It's those details I'm digging for.

Thanks for the reply.

 

I have found that in my '01 LS430, performance in snow is not good! Worse than that, the regular and snow mode sometimes take away so much power that I have found myself in a dangerous position trying to get across a snowy median, but the car sends almost no power to the wheels and I am barely moving with oncoming cars!. I now prefer to take off the traction control and manage the wheel slippage myself. I plan to get 2 sets of tires, winter and other, but have not yet. Until then, I just try and remember that I have an awesome car that 1% of the time has a weakness that I can manage with caution. Many of us have been spoiled with front wheel drive cars and 4x4 SUV's. Take your time, be smart, and enjoy!

 

jbee - Sorry but my 2004 LS is my first Lexus. I'm assuming since all car makers seemed to have stepped up their stability control devices I would think that Lexus has tweaked it to some degree. Was VSC available in '01? My Audi had it so I would think it was there. I wish there was a way to completely turn it off like in a BMW. Lexus has their stability control set too sensitive.

Bruce

 

I run a set of Nokian WR tires in winter and they make a world of difference on my 03 LS430.
I also don't like that the traction control dumbs down the throttle, so I do shut it off when I feel I will need to get moving when pulling out into traffic in slipery conditions

Frank

 

which helps when starting out. The snow mode for the transmission is a good countermeasure. If you intend to drive in the snow often then a set of snow tires is your best option. Any Finnish named brand will do nicely....

Rock