2009 Lexus IS 250 AWD

The 2009 Lexus IS 250 AWD midsize sedan comes equipped with Lexus's all-wheel-drive system, which distributes torque 30/70 front to back under normal driving conditions to provide the feel of a rear-wheel-drive car. However, when road conditions require optimal traction, or when the driver manually changes the configuration, the system shifts to a 50/50 torque split between the front and rear wheels. The AWD system works in conjunction with the IS 250 AWD's other performance- and safety-related features, including active traction control, electronic stability control, and antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. Power for the '09 IS 250 AWD comes from a 204-hp, 2.5-liter all-aluminum V6 engine, which links to a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with intelligence. The engine posts fuel economy numbers of 21/29 mpg.

Inside, the '09 IS 250 AWD receives a number of updates, including a new instrument cluster, knee airbags for the driver and passenger, and fold-down rear-seat headrests, which help improve visibility out the back when the rear seat is unoccupied. Other standard interior features for the '09 IS 250 AWD include leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. To keep passengers entertained, the IS 250 AWD comes with a 13-speaker audio system with an automatic sound levelizer and an in-dash 6-CD changer. In addition, owners can opt for a 14-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system with a 6-CD/DVD auto-changer. Other options include heated front seats, a voice-activated DVD navigation system, a backup camera with a full-color display, and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

Outside, updates for 2009 include revised front and rear bumpers and taillights, as well as a restyled grille. In addition, Lexus relocated the turn indicators from the front fender to the exterior side mirrors. The '09 IS 250 Base sedan rides on 17-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels with all-season tires.

By R. Feeman