Lexus IS 250 6MT (AWD) or IS 350 6AT, which do you think is better overall?

Small engines and AWD is a bad choice. AWD has more drive train loses which means less power makes it to the ground, reduced gas mileage, and more weight. Combined with the smaller engine you get a slowish car.

Get the IS350. I wouldnt get AWD unless you drive in the snow a lot.

I would sort of agree with Boris F. However, I was looking to trade a GX470 for something. I had driven a BMW 5 speed years ago so I tried one of the new ones (a 530i). Great engine /transmission but the fit, finish, ergonomics and luxury were no there compared to my Lexus models. There are no IS250 manuals (new) in the midwest but they could be ordered. Having sat in a 250 I knew the luxury and ergonomics were there but I didn't know about the manual tranny. I had occasion to be in California last year and test drove a manual IS250 out there. My last manual was a 5 speed Acura Legend (1992). It was peppy and fast; sadly, the IS250 lacked zip and I didn't like the gear ratios. But that was me.

I ended up with a GS450h but have driven the IS and GS 350. Nice cars and there is a manual sport mode as I recall.

My present car has a CVT. Really want a thrill? Try the IS-F. If you have the means I highly recommend it! (Chuckle).

Go for the 350 engine. I think you will be glad. If they ever built a manual 350 I might be first in line.

Good luck with your decision. I think any Lexus is great but I am biased.

P. S. Boris is correct: no AWD manual.

All Lexus autos are horrible in relation to its competition. Your description for this question quite a jumble though. You can try a AWD Porsche or a Mitsubishi evo 11 FQ360 if you want any car that's acceptable at on snow handling and the quicker. So too good are the modern Lambos and to a lesser extent, the former Subaru Impreza STI is also great in snow as long as you have winter tires.

there is no manual trans for the IS250 AWD. the automatic is 'manually shiftable' so some magazines incorrectly calls this a manual transmission.

personally, i think the IS350 is much better because of the additional power. if you are an enthusiast driver you will find the IS250

They didnt make the 250 in 6mt awd.

regardless,

get a manual .... it will last longer if you know what your doing