Do you really think I'd buy a brand new Lexus and not drive it at all myself? Sure, I guess you could say he can drive it to school, but that doesn't necessarily mean that's 100% "his car". I would trust him enough (he's very responsible and IMO quite a skillful driver) to let him "borrow" my new weekend toy most of the time.
Geting back on topic... by the looks of it, I think we'd be considering the AWD option then.
Forgot to add one thing: my kid wants me to enroll him and our family into the "Porsche Driving Experience" in S. Carolina next summer... I guess it's my fault for making him love cars!
This reminds me of how ruined (spoiled) and arrogant one of my "friends" is since his dad gives him credit cards galore and a brand new Cadillac Escalade, Rolex, among 4 other thousand dollar watches.
This doesn't mean that others who are not as wealthy, as they too can be spoiled relative to their financial situation.
It is all in what your parents teach you.
BGDC said it.
In general, if you aren't given it, you work a hell of a lot harder to get it if you think you deserve it.
Totally agree- nothing you do in high school or college justifies getting a new $30K car, and again, good grades are expected, or else. Where does a kid learn responsibility when his parents pay for college for 5 years and gives them a new IS250 or 330i to boot? My wife and I live in a fairly affluent western suburb of Chicago, and the kids here are spoiled, spoiled, spoiled, and are all going to be in shock when they are finally cut loose and figure out that they can't afford rent on an apt and the payments on a car and insurance when they get out of college or grad school, much less a BMW or Lexus-
I came into this discussion to ask for advice regarding the advantages of AWD/disadvanages of RWD on the Lexus IS, not for advice about my parenting. Judging from the responses form this board, I may be leaning towards an AWD option, which does not appear to be too popular of an feature in here in sunny San Diego. :shades:
I kindly ask that people don't pre-judge the reasons why I am buying this car. I am not automatically buying this car for the sake of giving him a new car. He clearly earned it through many different factors that I won't go through with you all. For those who directly responded to my very simple question, thanks a bunch! I just have no idea what winter driving is like.
I can see both sides of this. Doing well in school benefits the kid so he shouldn't get an extra reward for it.
On the other hand, there are people with all kinds of disposable income, literally money to burn.
Yes it's spoiling the child but more than likely, the kid's been spoiled way before graduation. At least these luxury cars are safer or more likely to protect in a collision.
There's a "reality" show on MTV called Laguna Beach. Kids are driving X5, 330iC, Mercedes convertibles, Audis, etc. and they're all slackers, mostly lucky to end up at second-tier schools like SDSU, LMU, BYU or USC. Some are HS drop outs and they're still rolling in luxury German cars.
So the rich aren't interested in instilling character in their children.
Just go to Lexus Kearny Mesa and order one. Those guys are always so desperate for customers they'll bend over backward to find you an AWD car. Strangely, Lexus of El Cajon (given the environment) doesn't have the air of desperation that surrounds LKM. Weird...
At least these luxury cars are safer or more likely to protect in a collision.
Really the protection difference between a 1998 C class or a 98 Accord and a 2006 Lexus is pretty much a wash.
There's a "reality" show on MTV called Laguna Beach. Kids are driving X5, 330iC, Mercedes convertibles, Audis, etc. and they're all slackers, mostly lucky to end up at second-tier schools like SDSU, LMU, BYU or USC. Some are HS drop outs and they're still rolling in luxury German cars.
True. San Diego is the same way. La Jolla/Del Mar/Rancho Santa Fe/encinitas it's expected your kid will get something foreign and expensive (check out the lot at LJ High!!). Mira Mesa/Kearny Mesa the families will go into debt to put their kids into fancy cars...it's a weird way of proving they've made it in the USA. Scripps Ranch/Poway/Otay Ranch is filled with people trying to prove they wanted to live in those hellholes instead of a nice coastal community.
The CEO of one of my old companies dropped over 65k (not including their cars) on his triplets' 16th birthday party. MTV did an episode covering the event for their show "Sweet Sixteen."
Since you "have no idea what winter driving is like", I assume this is also true for your son. Getting moving is harder, stopping can be much harder. Mostly it is the stopping that is riskier. Also sideways traction (in turns) can be iffy. All of these things can come on suddenly, even in otherwise clear (but cold) weather. For example, you may come around a corner and hit a patch of ice or snow unexpectedly. These factors would make AWD a plus for a less experienced driver. Also, IMHO (no flames here, please) RWD is a bit tougher than FWD in snow, if you have to pick one or the other - the weight in a FWD car is over the driving wheels, which aids traction.
AWD has no advantages when stopping. It makes a car heavier - basically bad. The most effective approach to this problem - FWD/RWD/AWD independent - is winter-specific tires, which you should get him no matter which car you buy him.
East coast weather varies - Washington DC does not get as much snow as NY city, and is generally warmer - it may last a shorter period of time (per snowfall). Plus, I would say in general that big cities are warmer and have effective snow removal. I live in upstate NY - more rural, less traffic, more prone to the have lingering snow.
There is no substitute for good judgement and knowing your driving limits - you sound confident with his. However, he has no experience, and should be cautious. A classic east coast young driving pleasure is testing traction limits in empty, snowy parking lots as a learning experience. Tim
I have friends who tried to drive BMWs and Mustangs with summer tires in the snow (in DC). They all said "Whatever you do, don't buy a car with summer tires and drive it in snow. Go with all-season tires or winter tires." I am taking their advice.
I'm glad to see this has gone from a parenting forum back to a car forum.
I agree that snow tires, or at the very least all-season tires, are the way to go regardless of what kind of car you get. AWD is mainly a big advantage when starting your car from a stop - it will help you get more traction. It can also help going around a turn if some of your wheels hit ice, for example, but others still have good traction. For times when you are not accelerating, or when you are braking, it won't make any difference. In those cases, vehicle weight and dynamics, tires, and driver skill/experience matter the most.
And yes, I agree with someone above who mentioned driving around in a snowy, empty parking lot to test the limits of your traction in the snow. Plus it's fun too.
And yes, I agree with someone above who mentioned driving around in a snowy, empty parking lot to test the limits of your traction in the snow. Plus it's fun too
Just make sure there are no parking cubs hidden under the snow...Otherwise it’s a new broken Lexus
Hey Diablo or anyone else who has the IS350 w/Nav/Bluetooth I have a couple of questions.
#1 Nav comes with a backup camera. Is this something obvious that you see on the back of the car from the outside - meaning can someone come along and break it off?
#2 Utilizing Bluetooth - after you program your phone to the Nav system do you have to have the phone in the car to utilize the system or does the system become your phone?
Thanks. I see it. Very inconspicuous. I've seen the RX SUV's with a big camera up in the corner and was afraid it was going to look something like that.
start the car with the parking brake on .then foot brake twice .(keep the foot brake down) .then parking brake twice (keep it down )and repeat till skid light is on the dash ..it will reset when you restart the car”
Confirmed to work on IS350 and GS430 per clublexus.com members.
I'm not offering advice re AWD vs RWD, though personally I don't see any downside to AWD for winter driving conditions. For cold weather, winter tires will outperform summer and all season tires below 7 C (44 F). All season tires are actually only 3 season tires. If there is any wetness, snow or ice, the coefficient of friction µ is reduced so one must drive more smoothly, with less acceleration while speeding up, slowing down, and turning. As some have suggested, drive as if there's a raw egg between your foot and the accelerator/brake pedal. I apologize if this is sounding pedagogical (like a school lesson). Here is a link to some advice re winter driving. http://www.canadiandriver.com/winter.htm
Of course, I'll test drive them both real soon, but I was wondering about the reactions the rest of you have had to the differences between the 250 and the 350 rear-wheel drive models. Lexus expects to sell more 250's. Is the 250 better or just less money? Or maybe the 350 isn't truly worth the extra $$? Or is it? Who's driven both and what do you think?
Has anyone in the SOCAL are gotten an IS350 with lux package yet? I'm really lookin for the 350 with lux cuz of the bi-xenon lights, I don't want to get afterstocks, thanks in advance for any replies
Hello: Lifetime New England resident and skier here. For winter driving, in addition to the tips others have written here, I offer the word, "distance!" As in keep a good distance between you and the car in front of you (unfortunately you can't easily control the distance between you and the moron in the Jeep behind you who thinks he's invincible in the snow with AWD...). When you know you're coming up to a braking situation (e.g. intersection) brake early, lightly and steadily. For both acceleration and braking, "smooth" is another word to remember. Yes, an egg between your foot and the pedal.
Tires are the single most important aspect (after the driver's brain) in snow driving. Remember all the traction aids will not help when you have NO traction!!! If you do buy him a RWD, snow tires. With AWD, good all-seasons should be good enough. Not the best, though. I've driven FWD all my life, never had snows. My Dad's Ford Country Squire Station WAgon had 'em, though! And, btw, that was the last domestic vehicle he bought until the last few years...
Good luck. If your son does come East, make sure he takes up skiing!
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Well I am waiting to buy the Lux pack. that comes included with Bi-xenon headlamps. But I am going to to add an aftermarket 8000KDeep Blue Color Lights and also I'm getting rid of the reg. yellow parking lights and add the color blue to it as well. But its very illegal here in CA, as far as I know! lol
They all said "Whatever you do, don't buy a car with summer tires and drive it in snow. Go with all-season tires or winter tires." I am taking their advice.
I have driven the IS250AWD & IS350. The 350 is NUTS. I have a 2000 Tundra W/4.7L V8 @ 245HP and the 350 is alot quicker. The IS250 AWD is adequate. I live up near Saratoga Springs, NY & wouldn't drive the car too much in the winter. If I had a choice the IS350 would be sitting in my driveway. The IS250 is cheaper but compared with the BMW 325XI the BMW is a better value...more HP. I bet next year they up the HP on the IS250...204 is not enough for a 30-35K car.
On page 153 of the Navigation System Owner's Manual you can find the list of voice commands by saying, "HELP." The commands are broken down by systems such as NAVI, POI, DEST,AUDIO & TELE.
The other option is the small Navigation Quick Guide. On page 18, the last page, a comprehensive list is provided with some of the most used voice commands. The best part is for the points of interest (POIs). Just say, "Nearest _____ (gas, bank, ATM)" and it finds them for you! Just be sure to wait for the beep to sound and the microphone to be displayed before speaking!
I can see why Lexus expects to sell more 250's than 350's. Because more people are interested in having the minimal - Lexus quality and a mild-mannered car. Then you've got the enthusiasts who can afford the 350 - and with the cost of a loaded 350,you could be playign with an entry level GS. They are trying to draw in a younger crowd here, so the mild 250 keeps the entry price low. I feel that in the case of luxury cars, Base models tend to sell more than performance variants which is probably why you see more E320/350 over an E500 or 55.
This board may make you think otherwise - it might lead you to believe that everyone would opt for the 350, but remember an enthusiast is more likely to come onto this board and voice their desieres than the average person looking for a regular 250. I'd be willing to bet that the 250 6 speed is pretty nimble. I just test drove a C230 kompressor (about 180-190hp under old standards mind you)and this thing moved like it was released from a slingshot. I bet the IS 250 6speed feels like this and would satisfy most like me who is used to the thrust of a 150hp honda. The 350 is for those people who have been spoiled by the thrust of high torque and really want a japanese musclecar.
I am awaiting the 250 coupe or convertible. The only way i'll get a 350 is if the convertible only comes in that trim.
Are there any distinguishing differences between the 250/350? By this, i mean aero kit differences, or whatever.
On german cars, there are very visible differences between base model and top end model unless of course you buy the upgraded styling. i was wondering if this is the case for the Lexus.
Edmunds is reporting that an IS convertible concept will be shown at the Detroit Auto Show in January. They say this will be much closer to production than the LF-C. It will also have a 5.0-liter V8 with 450hp.
I am looking at getting the IS250 AWD to replace my aging Audi A6. I noticed several post questioning the value of AWD and the extra cost. Perhaps I can help.
I currently own a RWD Mazda Miata, the A6 Quattro and a Honda Pilot 4x4 SUV. I recently got rid of a RWD Q45 with Traction Control. I have driven each one in all types of weather. For me, the AWD is without question worth the extra price. Most assume that AWD is only for snow. Wrong. It helps immensely with rain slick streets too. I have yet to find a similar weight RWD car that can corner like a AWD car on wet roads. I can drive the A6 in any weather and literally forget the traction issue (or lack of). At least until I try to stop, then it don’t matter if it is AWD or RWD.
I will not own a car without AWD that sees slick roads on a regular basis. The Q45 with TC was lousy in the snow and rain. I couldn’t get up any marginal hills and the lack of torque to leave stop light with TC on was pathetic .especially trying to avoid accidents in snow at intersections (when the guy behind me couldn’t stop). The Miata is a joke in any slick stuff. But a blast in great weather. In good weather, the RWD cars are great to "drive" since you can actually use the RWD to your advantage. However, for me, and the constantly changing Kansas weather, AWD is the daily choice.
That is the other super car which Toyota is working on. Aug of 2007 is just too long of a wait! Can they put a V6 in it and call it a Supera and sell it for 28K?
... I cannot believe that somebody has come up with the answer and nobody has noticed. The reason why I did not realize in my post earlier was because I didn't read every post before mine because I have been very busy with work.
THANK YOU FOR FINDING A CURE!
Now I can decide when I want VDIM on, and when I don't!
The rubbers gotta be expensive though. It's like burning money... literally. On the odd time I will probably find myself doing it. We all do. Time will tell.
What are your thoughts on the Value factor of the Lexus IS? I test drove an infiniti G35 coupe yesterday, 19"wheels, navigation, 6 speed, sunroof, metallic trim - dealer said 39k but made it clear that she was willing to haggle with the price. Anyway, I drove it around, it has power, no doubt. The Nav was ok, bluetooth set to my phone very quickly and easily(1st time even attempting for me, and for the dealer), but i was unimpressed with the interior, and the orange glow of the dash. Now I feel as if I am a car enthusiast, but at the same time, bang for the buck is a huge factor for me. I have test driven the G35, a C230 Kompressor sedan, and the IS250AWD. I'm coming from a Honda Accord. This is my first time on a car hunt, and I just have yet to be impressed. I'm waiting to get a feel for the Is250 6 speed before I make a choice here. Is it strange that I am on the hunt for a car, but i can't seem to find something that suits my taste. What are your thoughts on the Value factor of the new IS? is it a steal, worth it's cost, or is it overpriced? The 250AWD that i hopped in was the most luxurious of the 3 but the slowest, the C230 felt the most nimble of the 3 but nothing really compelling about it, and the G was clearly the most powerful contender but lackluster interior, and at 39k, i should probably be comparing it to the is350.
Is the LEx a value to you guys? Should i be looking at higher end cars, or are there any other competitors in this segment I'm overlooking? (not a Bmw fan)
I drove the IS250AWD, IS350, Acura TL, and G35x all in one day. You might want to line up your comparison a bit more. The G35 coupe is rear wheel drive which lines up with the IS350. IS350 is more expensive but is alot more car with the options attached...$43,000 loaded. Is it worth the extra $4000...your call. The IS250AWD lines up with the G35x AWD. Both 4 door sedans. The G35x is a better value hands down. The IS250AWD doesn't come with the Sport-Tuned suspension option just yet...so no HID lights, no telescopic steering wheel, no 18" wheels and 204HP vs. 280HP in the G35x. If I was to buy a car right now it would be the G35x. But I'll wait until next year...I have a feeling when Lexus doesn't hit there sales numbers they'll tweak that 204HP engine on the AWD and alot more options/accessories will be offered. I wouldn't touch the Mercedes myself. I have yet to drive the BMW...but I plan on it.
A month ago I switched jobs and had to let go of my old company car. I needed something that fit my budget and timeframe and therefore narrowed my choices to a G35, TL, BMW 330 and an IS350. After weeks of evaluating the many pros and cons of each, I settled on the IS. The BMW was nice but fears of quality gremlins (perhaps unfounded) drove me away. I was intrigued by the TL and G35's discounts, but ultimately found the IS's blend of quality, style and performance too hard to ignore.
And I paid sticker. (Ouch)
I still feel the value is strong, though. I, too, am a car enthusiast and am constantly trying to balance those inherent emotional issues with fiscal responsibility. For me, the car represents a great deal, even at the 38.5K MSRP of my model. The exterior design has an aggressively-appealing stance. The materials are high quality. It feels like it's extremely well-screwed together, more so than its competitors... even with my early build copy. There are thoughtful little touches everywhere in the interior...stuff that only a brand new design brings. And when I put my foot down on the accelerator, the thing takes off like a rocket. Plus, my dealer has a brand new facility with an excellent and free soft cloth car wash that I use once a week. That alone saves me a bundle of money.
All of those details were enough to solidify my decision. There will always be compromises, but the IS emerged as one of the nicest ways to spend a ton of cash.
For right now I think the IS 250 AWD is overpriced. You get a bigger bang for your buck with a G35x, with more space and power. I am hoping that Lexus will lower the price of the IS in the coming year to be more competitive. People will be turned away from paying $35K for only 204 HP and cramped backseating where they can get a G35x with 280 HP and more space for $2k less.
I would have gone with the G35 sedan if I could stand its styling. It has the power, interior space, and most of the features I need. Just didn't like the way it looked! The G35 coupe, on the other hand, is a knockout. If I had been on the market for a 2-door, it would have been at the top of my list.
I think the IS350 is a pretty good value and the IS250 is not a good value. I've had my 350 for about 3 weeks and don't regret it for a second. One of those products that you like more and more, the more you use it.
Damn, I have to agree that it feels cheaper. Well we'll see. I think someone summed this whole dilemma well with "balance of emotions and fiscal responsobility. Can anyone describe what the TL's interior feels like vs. G35 and Lexus?
P.S. I was in the Dealership when my girlfriend calls me over and says that I need to buy this 33k G35 coupe...i walk over and it's a 435hp stillen supercharged G35, (no aesthetic mods except different hood and chrome on the front) falsely advertised tho, it was going for 60k :surprise:
"P.S. I was in the Dealership when my girlfriend calls me over and says that I need to buy this 33k G35 coupe...i walk over and it's a 435hp stillen supercharged G35, (no aesthetic mods except different hood and chrome on the front) falsely advertised tho, it was going for 60k"
The TL is a nice car for the money. You can buy one for ~31,000....2000 below sticker. The interior is comparible to the G35 which is a little bit more room than the IS. I didn't like the front wheel drive though as much as the G35x or either IS250AWD/IS350. The steering wheel didn't feel as solid as the other cars. Also I heard Acura had tire problems in 2005...don't know if that issue was fixed.
Comments
Geting back on topic... by the looks of it, I think we'd be considering the AWD option then.
Forgot to add one thing: my kid wants me to enroll him and our family into the "Porsche Driving Experience" in S. Carolina next summer... I guess it's my fault for making him love cars!
There is 30 cm of snow that just got dumped on Winnipeg and I don't see anyone using snowchains!
Yikes, maybe if you live on top of a mountain!
People use snowtires, not snowchains...
This reminds me of how ruined (spoiled) and arrogant one of my "friends" is since his dad gives him credit cards galore and a brand new Cadillac Escalade, Rolex, among 4 other thousand dollar watches.
This doesn't mean that others who are not as wealthy, as they too can be spoiled relative to their financial situation.
It is all in what your parents teach you.
BGDC said it.
In general, if you aren't given it, you work a hell of a lot harder to get it if you think you deserve it.
I kindly ask that people don't pre-judge the reasons why I am buying this car. I am not automatically buying this car for the sake of giving him a new car. He clearly earned it through many different factors that I won't go through with you all. For those who directly responded to my very simple question, thanks a bunch! I just have no idea what winter driving is like.
On the other hand, there are people with all kinds of disposable income, literally money to burn.
Yes it's spoiling the child but more than likely, the kid's been spoiled way before graduation. At least these luxury cars are safer or more likely to protect in a collision.
There's a "reality" show on MTV called Laguna Beach. Kids are driving X5, 330iC, Mercedes convertibles, Audis, etc. and they're all slackers, mostly lucky to end up at second-tier schools like SDSU, LMU, BYU or USC. Some are HS drop outs and they're still rolling in luxury German cars.
So the rich aren't interested in instilling character in their children.
Really the protection difference between a 1998 C class or a 98 Accord and a 2006 Lexus is pretty much a wash.
There's a "reality" show on MTV called Laguna Beach. Kids are driving X5, 330iC, Mercedes convertibles, Audis, etc. and they're all slackers, mostly lucky to end up at second-tier schools like SDSU, LMU, BYU or USC. Some are HS drop outs and they're still rolling in luxury German cars.
True. San Diego is the same way. La Jolla/Del Mar/Rancho Santa Fe/encinitas it's expected your kid will get something foreign and expensive (check out the lot at LJ High!!). Mira Mesa/Kearny Mesa the families will go into debt to put their kids into fancy cars...it's a weird way of proving they've made it in the USA. Scripps Ranch/Poway/Otay Ranch is filled with people trying to prove they wanted to live in those hellholes instead of a nice coastal community.
The CEO of one of my old companies dropped over 65k (not including their cars) on his triplets' 16th birthday party. MTV did an episode covering the event for their show "Sweet Sixteen."
Since you "have no idea what winter driving is like", I assume this is also true for your son. Getting moving is harder, stopping can be much harder. Mostly it is the stopping that is riskier. Also sideways traction (in turns) can be iffy. All of these things can come on suddenly, even in otherwise clear (but cold) weather. For example, you may come around a corner and hit a patch of ice or snow unexpectedly. These factors would make AWD a plus for a less experienced driver. Also, IMHO (no flames here, please) RWD is a bit tougher than FWD in snow, if you have to pick one or the other - the weight in a FWD car is over the driving wheels, which aids traction.
AWD has no advantages when stopping. It makes a car heavier - basically bad. The most effective approach to this problem - FWD/RWD/AWD independent - is winter-specific tires, which you should get him no matter which car you buy him.
East coast weather varies - Washington DC does not get as much snow as NY city, and is generally warmer - it may last a shorter period of time (per snowfall). Plus, I would say in general that big cities are warmer and have effective snow removal. I live in upstate NY - more rural, less traffic, more prone to the have lingering snow.
There is no substitute for good judgement and knowing your driving limits - you sound confident with his. However, he has no experience, and should be cautious. A classic east coast young driving pleasure is testing traction limits in empty, snowy parking lots as a learning experience. Tim
(I drive AWD with dedicated snow tires)
Ive done real well the last 30 some odd years, maybe you can toss me a IS ? :P
Good luck with your decision,
DL
I agree that snow tires, or at the very least all-season tires, are the way to go regardless of what kind of car you get. AWD is mainly a big advantage when starting your car from a stop - it will help you get more traction. It can also help going around a turn if some of your wheels hit ice, for example, but others still have good traction. For times when you are not accelerating, or when you are braking, it won't make any difference. In those cases, vehicle weight and dynamics, tires, and driver skill/experience matter the most.
And yes, I agree with someone above who mentioned driving around in a snowy, empty parking lot to test the limits of your traction in the snow. Plus it's fun too.
Just make sure there are no parking cubs hidden under the snow...Otherwise it’s a new broken Lexus
#1 Nav comes with a backup camera. Is this something obvious that you see on the back of the car from the outside - meaning can someone come along and break it off?
#2 Utilizing Bluetooth - after you program your phone to the Nav system do you have to have the phone in the car to utilize the system or does the system become your phone?
And look at the second picture up from the bottom... the camera is the little black dot right below the Lexus logo, above the license plate.
2. The car does not have a built-in phone. You need your phone in order to make calls.
Confirmed to work on IS350 and GS430 per clublexus.com members.
Use at your own risk - Safe Driving
Source: realtechnews.com
What does steering feel like w/o VDIM?
http://www.canadiandriver.com/winter.htm
Tires are the single most important aspect (after the driver's brain) in snow driving. Remember all the traction aids will not help when you have NO traction!!! If you do buy him a RWD, snow tires. With AWD, good all-seasons should be good enough. Not the best, though. I've driven FWD all my life, never had snows. My Dad's Ford Country Squire Station WAgon had 'em, though! And, btw, that was the last domestic vehicle he bought until the last few years...
Good luck. If your son does come East, make sure he takes up skiing!
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
all-season tires orwinter tires." I am taking their advice.Not to burst your bubble, but a civic is quicker than your truck.
The other option is the small Navigation Quick Guide. On page 18, the last page, a comprehensive list is provided with some of the most used voice commands. The best part is for the points of interest (POIs). Just say, "Nearest _____ (gas, bank, ATM)" and it finds them for you! Just be sure to wait for the beep to sound and the microphone to be displayed before speaking!
This board may make you think otherwise - it might lead you to believe that everyone would opt for the 350, but remember an enthusiast is more likely to come onto this board and voice their desieres than the average person looking for a regular 250. I'd be willing to bet that the 250 6 speed is pretty nimble. I just test drove a C230 kompressor (about 180-190hp under old standards mind you)and this thing moved like it was released from a slingshot. I bet the IS 250 6speed feels like this and would satisfy most like me who is used to the thrust of a 150hp honda. The 350 is for those people who have been spoiled by the thrust of high torque and really want a japanese musclecar.
I am awaiting the 250 coupe or convertible. The only way i'll get a 350 is if the convertible only comes in that trim.
On german cars, there are very visible differences between base model and top end model unless of course you buy the upgraded styling. i was wondering if this is the case for the Lexus.
link title
I currently own a RWD Mazda Miata, the A6 Quattro and a Honda Pilot 4x4 SUV. I recently got rid of a RWD Q45 with Traction Control. I have driven each one in all types of weather. For me, the AWD is without question worth the extra price. Most assume that AWD is only for snow. Wrong. It helps immensely with rain slick streets too. I have yet to find a similar weight RWD car that can corner like a AWD car on wet roads. I can drive the A6 in any weather and literally forget the traction issue (or lack of). At least until I try to stop, then it don’t matter if it is AWD or RWD.
I will not own a car without AWD that sees slick roads on a regular basis. The Q45 with TC was lousy in the snow and rain. I couldn’t get up any marginal hills and the lack of torque to leave stop light with TC on was pathetic .especially trying to avoid accidents in snow at intersections (when the guy behind me couldn’t stop). The Miata is a joke in any slick stuff. But a blast in great weather. In good weather, the RWD cars are great to "drive" since you can actually use the RWD to your advantage. However, for me, and the constantly changing Kansas weather, AWD is the daily choice.
THANK YOU FOR FINDING A CURE!
Now I can decide when I want VDIM on, and when I don't!
Is the LEx a value to you guys? Should i be looking at higher end cars, or are there any other competitors in this segment I'm overlooking? (not a Bmw fan)
And I paid sticker. (Ouch)
I still feel the value is strong, though. I, too, am a car enthusiast and am constantly trying to balance those inherent emotional issues with fiscal responsibility. For me, the car represents a great deal, even at the 38.5K MSRP of my model. The exterior design has an aggressively-appealing stance. The materials are high quality. It feels like it's extremely well-screwed together, more so than its competitors... even with my early build copy. There are thoughtful little touches everywhere in the interior...stuff that only a brand new design brings. And when I put my foot down on the accelerator, the thing takes off like a rocket. Plus, my dealer has a brand new facility with an excellent and free soft cloth car wash that I use once a week. That alone saves me a bundle of money.
All of those details were enough to solidify my decision. There will always be compromises, but the IS emerged as one of the nicest ways to spend a ton of cash.
I think the IS350 is a pretty good value and the IS250 is not a good value. I've had my 350 for about 3 weeks and don't regret it for a second. One of those products that you like more and more, the more you use it.
The IS is a better value if you want a "nice" car. The G35 is cheaper and it feels like it.
P.S. I was in the Dealership when my girlfriend calls me over and says that I need to buy this 33k G35 coupe...i walk over and it's a 435hp stillen supercharged G35, (no aesthetic mods except different hood and chrome on the front) falsely advertised tho, it was going for 60k :surprise:
I think I would wait for 2008 Skyline GT-R