The Lexus IS 300 AWD is a worthy contender in the compact luxury segment. It features a 3.5L V6 engine that makes 260 HP and 236 lb-ft of torque which was pretty swift in my week of driving in the Washington metropolitan area. The AWD model has a permanent system and is matted to a 6-speed automatic transmission. I loved the paddle shifters especially as they allowed for so great maneuvering thru my exciting drive during the week. I also loved the entune telematics system which featured a 10.3” display in the upgrade package that also features a Mark Levinson audio system with 5.1 surround sound. The IS 300 AWD get an EPA rated 26 MPG on the highway and I got similar figures in my week of driving around the Washington metropolitan area. Base price on the IS 300 AWD is $40,660 and with the aforementioned options along with others like the comfort package and delivery the cost came out to $46,625. For more information visit lexus.com