Sure an "ix" model is safer in the sense that it has AWD and any AWD car will handle "safer" in any condition but is it over kill in areas where snow is rare? Yes, as you loose mileage and you are increasing your wear and tear as there are more moving parts. All Suburus are AWD as well, but I would not buy it unless I drove in adverse conditions on a regular basis. Get the 325i and enjoy!