Are there any restriction in using AWD on the 2011 rx350 models? Currently in the market for luxury SUV, either RX or MDX. I know the honda Pilot has restriction in using the 4wd - must be at low speed (25mph max), cannot use on dry roads, only on snow, wet, muddy conditions and etc...

 

the AWD only kicks in when the tires slip so it is still a FWD car most of the time. You can turn on an AWD lock via a button but it only works up to 27mph or something

 

This is exactly how it works. Once you turn it on, there is a light on the dash and you can watch it turn off about 27mph

 

Save your money! Go with FWD. Traction control on FWD will do the same, in most cases its the traction control in AWD that kicks in for a split second NOT AWD. You will save a bundle up front and down the road on mechanical issues as the vehicle gets near 80,000 miles and needs replacement parts due to age and wear. I've said it before, I know a few mechanics in Ma., NY, and Tx. they all told me the same...... save your money.

Don't let Lexus AWD give you a false sense of security/safety.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJZxV...eature=related

 

Interesting.

 

Ive seen that video before, and without knowing the type of tires that were on each vehicle and the conditions of the test, *cough* bias *cough, you cant determine whether or not to buy AWD from Lexus based on that

 

I'll say it again, I have yet to get stuck in the snow while driving my 450h or the other RXs I've had. There are plenty of hills to go up and down no matter which way I drive home. I don't even bother with snow mode or anything else. Like RXSF mentioned, tires make a difference. So does having AWD even if it is technically part time. I wouldn't buy an RX without it.

 

I live in Canada and with the amount of snow we've got so far AWD has been a blessing. I lock the AWD most of the time and the performance has been great. Would I get AWD in Southern California? probably not, but in Canada or somewhere with lots of snow, hell yes!

 

The awd in the RX and MDX are both fine with the sporting edge going to the MDX in my opinion but they will both get the job done.

BTW what you described for the Pilot is the 4WD lock, like others have said, but the Pilot AWD is pretty much like the RXs for the most part. My wife has an 04 Pilot and its very nice in all the weather we've thrown at in here in the Northeast that last 7+ years and I think I've used that lock button once just to see what it would do.

Good luck with your purchase, let us know what you decide.

 

I'm in MA and never ever heard anything about restriction. Hmmm. Different states have diff laws