AWD vs RWD?
Lexus Champion
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 18,558
Likes: 1,835
From: Ohio
I have never driven an RWD LS460 in the snow. I have had a lot of experience with the LS430 and LS400 in the snow with dedicated snow tires. They both ok in the snow when using the snow switch and taking it easy.
The AWD LS460 with dedicated snow tires is at a significantly higher level in the snow. It is firmly planted, sure footed and handles very well in the snow. Much better than most of the large SUVs, pickups and xDrive sedans that are common in my area. Combined with the PTC heater and other features of the cold weather package, it is a great in the snowy Midwest winter.
The AWD LS460 with dedicated snow tires is at a significantly higher level in the snow. It is firmly planted, sure footed and handles very well in the snow. Much better than most of the large SUVs, pickups and xDrive sedans that are common in my area. Combined with the PTC heater and other features of the cold weather package, it is a great in the snowy Midwest winter.
The AWD version is obviously much better and has a torsion center diff and the same quick responding assist systems.
Driver
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 58
Likes: 21
From: Ohio
RWD vs AWD
The RWD is incrementally better than the 430 on the same tires but has much faster VSC response and preemptive brake based ESC so it feels a lot more confident.
The AWD version is obviously much better and has a torsion center diff and the same quick responding assist systems.
The AWD version is obviously much better and has a torsion center diff and the same quick responding assist systems.
My 2011 ẁas totaled by a hit and run driver. Its replacement is a 2012 AWD. Given the weather here in Columbus Ohio,
I haven't had a chance to "push" it yet.
Lexus Champion
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 18,558
Likes: 1,835
From: Ohio
I realize this is an old thread but I see that my state of affairs is related to this post. Myth last LS460 was a 2011 RWD. POWER Was never lacking. It wasn't Quick, but it Was Fast. I owned a Ducati 1000 Motoposto - It was quick And Fast.
My 2011 ẁas totaled by a hit and run driver. Its replacement is a 2012 AWD. Given the weather here in Columbus Ohio,
I haven't had a chance to "push" it yet.
My 2011 ẁas totaled by a hit and run driver. Its replacement is a 2012 AWD. Given the weather here in Columbus Ohio,
I haven't had a chance to "push" it yet.
Pit Crew
Joined: Jan 2025
Posts: 182
Likes: 41
From: mn
The RWD is incrementally better than the 430 on the same tires but has much faster VSC response and preemptive brake based ESC so it feels a lot more confident.
The AWD version is obviously much better and has a torsion center diff and the same quick responding assist systems.
The AWD version is obviously much better and has a torsion center diff and the same quick responding assist systems.
Lexus Champion
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 18,558
Likes: 1,835
From: Ohio
They aren't bad but not "plow snow out of your way with it over the hoodline" good lol!
Pit Crew
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 151
Likes: 1
From: IL
My 2016 LS460 AWD with 100k on it drones at speeds between 40 and 60. The frequency is about 2Hz as I coast in neutral or just cruise at 50. It seems to go quiet when accelerating.
I just bought new Michelin tires...same thing. Bearings are OK.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Lexus dealers are clueless.
I just bought new Michelin tires...same thing. Bearings are OK.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Lexus dealers are clueless.
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2nd gear
Joined: May 2026
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Alberta
Its more a matter of perspective. For me, my 2011 LS460 AWD is the fastest car I have ever owned and at another level overall. The acceleration is wonderful to me, and more than fast enough get to 100 mph on a local highway on ramp to merge and avoid the right lane bozos.
My sister has a 2012 BMW 335ix M Sport. That thing is fast, and I was always impressed by the "press the pedal hard and boom you're there" feeling. I get the same feeling in my LS460. Yes, there are much faster cars, but honestly I'm more than happy with the overall luxury and speed it has.
My sister has a 2012 BMW 335ix M Sport. That thing is fast, and I was always impressed by the "press the pedal hard and boom you're there" feeling. I get the same feeling in my LS460. Yes, there are much faster cars, but honestly I'm more than happy with the overall luxury and speed it has.
Pole Position
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 3,052
Likes: 1,130
@sidorg222 need some advice as I have a 2011 LS460 AWD 4.6L V8 just got it 5 months ago. I came to know that the front struts pax side has a leak, any advice on what to get , at the same time I can feel some vibration while braking when I'm on 70 kmph. Don't exactly know the reasons behind this.
Whether it's air or spring suspension replacing in pairs is your best bet and the most common issue with vibration when braking is warped rotors which is best dealt with using rotor and pad kits from rockauto.com
Pit Crew
Joined: Jan 2025
Posts: 182
Likes: 41
From: mn
My 2016 LS460 AWD with 100k on it drones at speeds between 40 and 60. The frequency is about 2Hz as I coast in neutral or just cruise at 50. It seems to go quiet when accelerating.
I just bought new Michelin tires...same thing. Bearings are OK.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Lexus dealers are clueless.
I just bought new Michelin tires...same thing. Bearings are OK.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Lexus dealers are clueless.
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