Compared, drove, deliberated long enough... I just picked up an IS250 AWD yesterday It is Onyx Blue Pearl / Black Interior. AWD / NAV / LUX Pkgs. Didn't really 'need' either but I figured this is my first luxury car and I'm a gadget guy so why not go for it? Anyway, although I've only had the car for <2 days I LOVE it. The cars I compared/drove: G35 Coupe (always loved this car, interior didn't feel right to me on a 37k car) TSX (I like, but just didn't do "it" for me) 325i (loved the 3 series since I can remember, the new design has grown on me some, but still doesn't pull my heart strings. Also, the BMW dealers (2) in my area are not up-to-par in my book for luxury service), TL (all I could think of is fancy Accord, even though I know it's much more). Overall I was looking for the whole experience & knew Lexus was the way to go... I just needed them to produce a car that grabbed me emotionally with the exterior and interior design - the new IS is that car <grin>. Happy Motoring!
I fell in love with the IS when i was shopping for my wifes TL. I live in Minnesota so the AWD is a must, rear wheel with snow tires is not an option where I live. Two things that would make this car perfect in my opinion. two more inches leg room in the back seat and If the AWD version didn't have the transmission tunnel bump out into the drivers leg area. I am interested in responses from those that have bought the AWD IS. Did you get used to the AWD tunnel bump out relatively quickly? Have you ever had an instance that you believe the bump out affected you driving?
I am thinking of buying the IS as a third car. so the back seat leg room is not a deal breaker, but the tunnel bump out may be a deal breaker for me.
Thanks to all that have the AWD version and wish to respond.
glenn- when i first drove the IS250 AWD in november the bump kept me from buying one. when i was out test driving on friday, i test drove it again - just to see - and for some reason it didn't bother me at all. did i notice it was there? yes, but not while driving... when my foot is on the accelerator the bump actually supports my calf when my foot is resting to the right (w/ cruise) its not in the way. i would suggest test driving it again. I liked it so much this time that I bought it! I too am in MN and will be glad to have AWD next fall/winter.
I've had my IS250 awd for a week and yesterday when my wife was pulling away I noticed some blue smoke out of both tail pipes. When she got home I went behind the car and had her rev it and there was no sign of any smoke. This morning I went out again when the engine was cold and had her start it and there was definite light blue smoke (not the white exhaust smoke/steam.)I followed her in my truck down the block and the smoke stopped within a few hundred yards of the house, but I'm concerned I might have a problem. It really wasn't far enough to drive to warm up the engine so I'm a bit perplexed. It's definitely blue smoke and very noticeable when you start the engine, but only when its completely cold, and it goes away within a block or two of driving. Does anyone else see this on their new cars or do you know if there is a system that injects a slight amount of engine oil into the combustion chamber when the engine is cold to help lubricate it at start up. I appreciate any feed back before I go to the dealer and complain. Suffice to say I'm not happy to see my new Lexus with 200 miles on it smoking, even if it is only for a few blocks.
The rims in front are narrower than the rears, it's not just the rubber. To take the fronts as wide as the rears means new rims, and probably significant clearance issues, not to mention creating a handling annoyance. To thin the rears to the width of the fronts will leave you without the means to fully apply the torque available; your electro-nannies will work overtime and make you nuts.
You could find a happy medium for all four corners, but I guess the key question here is why? Why bother getting a performance set-up in the first place if only to dull it down at the first rubber change?
225/40-18 up front and 255/40-18 in the rear. Front measured rim width 8", overall diameter 25.1" Rear measured rim width 9", overall diameter 26.0"
If you try to hit the middle here, your looking at perhaps a 235/40-18 at 8.5" and 25.4", which could work on the front, but will alter the geomtry in the rear a bit. You could try a 245/40-18 at 8.5" and 25.7", which may work without incident in the rear, but will change the geometry in front and will track like it has a mind of its own. It's also going to make the car look a little like it's riding spares in the rear.
Either way you slice it, you're looking at decreased capabilities by going four-alike on a car set up for the stagger. Seems hardly worth the few bucks saved on rubber.
Embrace the service bay! I have. I very much look forward to may annual rubber replacement. The anticipation of brand new road glue every twelve-month is worth every last groat...
It's defiantly blue smoke. There is a little of the dark smoke right at start up but that clears within 15 seconds. The strange part is that the blue smoke goes away within a few blocks of driving, and there is no sign of any smoke when the car warms up. They told me when I bought the car that the engines go through a break-in procedure at the factory so my initial thinking that things just need to "seat-in" a little is probably wishful thinking. I looked at it again this morning and I'm almost positive its burning oil smoke, which in my old school mind come from bad rings or valves. I called the dealer and made an appointment to bring it in and have them look at it, he said it sounded like it was running too rich...we'll see. I'm sure I'm going to get the "that's normal" and "we can't find anything wrong with it" standard answers. I've been very impressed with the Lexus Dealer so far, we'll see if the service department is as accommodating as the sales department.
A large local newspaper is looking to interview consumers who purchased a Lexus, Toyota or Scion vehicle and what led you to purchase that vehicle. Please send an e-mail to ctalati@edmunds.com no later than Wednesday, April 5, 2006 containing your daytime contact information, along with the make and model your vehicle.
Is any of you guys bothered by the cheap look of the cover where the clock is? It always looks clouded and fogged up. Also, only a month after I got the car and it already shows some scratches. That's the only low-point of the whole dash.
Great info on this forum. Keep up the good work! Anyway, I was wondering if I could get feedback from some of you IS250 owners on the stock stereo. I'm seriously considering purchasing an AWD IS250. Took it for a test drive today and really loved it. The thing is I'd like to get the Levenson stereo in it, but there aren't many optioned with that and the other things I'm looking for. Is the Levenson stereo really worth waiting for, or is the stock stereo sufficient?
I've heard from others that the stock stereo is more than enough. 13 speakers, 194 watts of power by Pioneer. Mark Levinson is good and it's a good name but I don't need 300 watts of sound in a car. And it's not a whole lot better than the stock for the price unless you're a sound nut. That's my .02.
I have the stock stereo in my IS350 and it sounds great. It'll go deafeningly loud without distortion. There is plenty of well controlled bass (no boom unless you turn the Bass level right up) and the highs are clear. Its much better than the stock stereo I had in my old Beemer and that was reasonable. The car does not have any annoying resonances or vibrations when the stereo is up loud either.
The dealer said it was the stuff they put on the disk brakes and exhausts to stop corrosion durring shipping burning off. It takes a couple of weeks. He also said the engine does run slightly cold. Anyone else see this with their temp gauge?
I love the way the IS250 looks and handles, and the interior materials and quiet ride are better than the Camry. The design of the IS250 is also much better than the Camry.
But why should I get an IS250 when the '07 Camry V6 has more horsepower (204 vs. 278) for the same weight (IS250 3435, Camry 3483) with not much difference in mileage (24/32 IS250 22/31 Camry)? Furthermore I calculate a 6K-8K difference in price for 'similarly equipped' cars (Nav, Leather, VSC).
Is the engine for the IS250 older technology than the '07 Camry? What is the reason the IS250 is smaller than the Camry, yet weighs the same?
Why can't Toyota Corporation just put the Camry engine into the IS250?
Could some knowledgeable person edumacate me?
My heart and eyes want the Lexus, but the head is telling me to get the Camry.
I struggled with some of the same issues that you are looking at with your decision on the IS verses the Camry.
I narrowed my search down to the Acura TL, Infiniti G35 and the IS250. I bought the TL due to the fact that it would have to haul my two kids around and the back seat in the IS 250 is smaller and the G35's gas mileage and higher price. The Tl was best for my situation.
That being said, I LOVED the The lexus IS 250, so much so that I've decided to buy one as a third car. I have now driven the 07 Camry and do think it is a nice car, but it is a completely different car.
The IS is a true luxury/performance car in my mind.
1) The seats are the best seats I have even seen- bar none. They are also cooled by the air-conditioner.
2) The body roll during cornering is far-far superior to the Camry.
3) The sound system is far superior to the camry.
4) The interior sound level is far superior to the Camry.
5) The IS appears to brake better than the Camry at least in the ones I drove on the same test drive course. This is subjective on my part, but the IS was straight as an arrow on my aggressive stop and the Camry faded to the left (both of these were beaten by the incredible G35 brakes).
6) The 6 speed auto in the IS seemed seamless, the Camry's had a more noticeable shift jerk.
7) The IS has Sequential-Shift Automatic with the paddle shifters, great to have little fun, but probably won't get used much for daily driving.
8) Styling is subjective, but in my mind, the IS is far superior to the Camry in sheet metal design.
9) You asked why the Lexus weighs the same a Camry. One reason is the sound deadening sheet metal in the IS. it weighs more and goes along way to quiet down the car. Ask you dealer to show you a sample of the standard sheet metal and the lexus sheet metal.
10) The IS front suspension is a double wishbone design, and the rear suspension is fully independent, multi-link with upper and lower control arms and a toe control arm to stabilize toe (which is put into a toe-out position to improve cornering response due to the fact that the steering gear was move forward of the axles). The Camry has a standard Macpherson strut suspension.
11) The build tolerance for sheet metal are night and day. The Japan built IS has thin consistently seams and the US Built Camry's seams were all over the board from good to very poor.
These are just a few reasons that I am close to getting the Lexus for my third car (with a Yukon and TL). If none of the above characteristics matter to you, or if all you want is upscale basic transportation. the Camry is for you, just as the TL was my choice for the wife's car.
If you want great handling car that is very fun to drive the IS is a great choice.
Either way I don't think you can make a big mistake -- The are both excellent cars.
Thank you for your comments. I didn't know there was a difference in the sheet metal. I completely agree with you regarding the superiority of the seats, and the quiet ride, and your point regarding the IS's Japanese manufacture is well taken. I love love love the IS250.
The paddle shifters I'm not so keen on. I think they look silly. Maybe if you're red-lining a 300 hp IS 350 on a race track they're useful, but on the IS 250 they look like those pointy things that stick out of a samurai hat. (IMHO) It's not a deal breaker for me though.
In terms of handling, I didn't notice much difference in cornering between the IS250 and an '07 SE V6. Do you remember whether you test drove an SE? And you realize that the Camry V6 can leave the IS250 in the dust, while having the same mileage, with the same Toyota reliabity? And I don't have to use a crow-bar and the jaws-of-life to get my parents into and out of the back seat!
I'm waiting for the ES350, which seems to have the same engine capability of the '07 Camry V6. But I bet it drives like a boat.
Yeah I am currently waiting for mine to come in with PCS option, and yes I had to special order it! Since I fear of the the heavy traffic on the "5" "405" freeways! :sick: Suave Tequila
But why should I get an IS250 when the '07 Camry V6 has more horsepower (204 vs. 278) for the same weight (IS250 3435, Camry 3483) with not much difference in mileage (24/32 IS250 22/31 Camry)? Furthermore I calculate a 6K-8K difference in price for 'similarly equipped' cars (Nav, Leather, VSC).
You make a point that's been made numerous times in numerous threads on these forums. Namely, "why should I spend all this money for this vehicle, when I can get this "comparable" vehicle for significantly less money?" I put "comparable" in quotes because I feel that that term is used in a rather subjective context. If you were to truly compare every aspect of an IS250 and a camry, I'm sure you'd realize that there is much less comparability than you thought there was. I think one of the posts before mine touches on some of these more subtle aspects in difference between the 2 cars. In fact, I think you'd be hard-pressed to get a concensus that the camry is comparable to an IS250. Of course, the vast majority of what you read on these forums is driven by subjective feeling instead of objective facts (BMWs suck, G35s rule! No, G35s suck, BMWs rule!). In some respects that's OK. It would be nice if people could keep an open mind, but alas, we are faulty humans after all. At some point in a car purchase, it becomes as much an emotional purchase as it is an analytical one. Put a consumer reports in front of somebody and show them, historically, how poor the reliability of their car is and you'll always get a reason as to why that purchase was made anyway. It's because the emotional factor will always eventually come into play. Why even question it? I'm a software engineer and I take a very analytical approach to everything I do, even car purchasing. At some point, though, I will bow to the Gods of emotional car purchasing and that will enter the equation.
With that in mind, I recently test drove the IS250 and was totally blown away by it. I am currently looking to replace my pathfinder (time to leave the realm of gas-guzzling SUVs) and am looking at entry-level luxury sedans. To date, I've driven the G35x, TL and IS250 AWD. The Lexus is leading the pack and, IN MY MIND, it's not even a contest. I still need to look at the 325xi, S40 and Saab 9-3. I seriously doubt (disclaimer: personal opinion) I would be able to sit in a camry and get the same feeling I get with the Lexus. On the surface, they may appear similar, but beneath that, Lexus seems to me to have so much more going for it that it's almost like comparing apples to oranges.
In the end, it becomes a personal choice. There are no "right" decisions in the area of car purchasing. Run the numbers and use them, test drive the vehicles and use that emotional information and just run with it. In the end, it'll work for you, and that's the only person that really matters.
By the way, thanks to those who responded on the stock stereo vs. Levinson stereo question. Since it seems difficult right now to get the Levinson here with all the other stuff I "require", I'll probably go with the standard stereo system.
"G35x, TL and IS250 AWD. The Lexus is leading the pack and, IN MY MIND, it's not even a contest. I still need to look at the 325xi, S40 and Saab 9-3."
Are you "me" :-) ?? quite interesting because these are exactly the lineup that I test drove (a side note: I also tried Mercedes C-class). Out of those only IS and 325i truly excited me. However, it wouldn't take long for me to open up my wallet for the IS due to the fact that I find its design (both exterior/interior) as well as reliablity are much better than 3-series.
Regarding the IS-Camry thing from the other post(Ineedanewcar), I just wanna make it simple- If money seems to be an issue with your purchasing decision then I think Camry is a better choice. However, besides all of those luxuries and performance given by the IS, I also find my experience as a Lexus owner really rewarding..something that I never had in the past 10 years owing a Camry,3000GT and Audi A4. The treatment that I got from Lexus dealership everytime I brought the vehicle in for a free carwash or service always reminds me that Lexus is not just a brand-it's an experience.
No, you need both Nav and ML in order to play movies. Oh btw if u really want to watch movies but dont like the idea of having the car in "park", there's a NAV hack that allows you to watch movies while on "Drive"!
Plus the ML is worth every penny since I had the experience to test a Lexus IS 250 with Nav/ML and "WOW" cant wait till I get my IS!
I'm only you if you are independently wealthy and have a big house on the hill.
I also think I will like the BMW when I take it out for at test run (Next week sometime, I think). I've always liked BMW but I'm not sure I'll be able to get past the reliability issues and those run-flats. Plus, the "emotional factor" of the Lexus is going to be hard to surpass. We'll see, though. I like the looks of the new BMW body style, so it'll come down to test drives. My only concern with the IS250 is rear seat space. But I have 2 small kids, so not that big of an issue. I did sit back there with the driver's seat in my "comfort" position and I had knee room. It was tight, and I wouldn't want to go on a trip of any length with adults back there, but I did fit!
If you have the NAV without ML audio, can you still play DVD movies on the NAV screen when parked?
I don't believe you can. When I was talking to the salesperson about the Mark Levinson, he did tell me that one of the differences between the ML and the standard stereo was the ability to play DVDs, but only when parked, not while driving. That all but negates the benefits of the DVD capability. Of course, the ML stereo also gives you...
14 speakers (as opposed to 13) DSP/Power amplifier Discrete 5.1 surround sound 300 watts (vs. 194) The ability to play the following formats: Dolby digital 5.1, DTS 5.1 from CD, CD-R, DVD audio
If you're a true audiophile, you would probably appreciate it. I have also heard that the standard stereo is no slouch. Unfortunately for me, in my area they don't seem to get too many IS250s configured with the ML stereo plus all the other stuff I want.
I had the mark levinson in the LS 430 I traded for my 350. it is a terrific stereo. having said that I think the stock stereo is sufficient for me now. besides the resolution of XM radio isnt high enough now to matter. cds may be another issue but I havent gotten around to playing any yet. and the stock subwoofer is good enough too.
all these posts here and in other forums about playing dvds while driving demonstrate nothing more than utter lunacy. THIS IS UNSAFE DRIVING.
I agree. Perhaps I should elaborate. I do agree that nobody should be watching movies while driving. It's an unsafe thing to do, much like talking on a cell phone while driving (I know I'm gonna hit a chord with that one ).
I was merely saying that a sedan with a DVD player that only entertains the front occupants, and only while in park is really kind of useless. In my opinion, it becomes somewhat of a non-issue when comparing the ML stereo with the standard stereo.
Yes I test drove the SE with nav, leather, jbl stereo, vehicle stability control, preferred package and some odds and ends that I don't remember. The sticker was $33k+.
The IS was a 250 with nav and heated and cooled seats. sticker was $34K+. I think you said you had a 6-8K difference...were driving an IS350?
If I had to get the in-laws in the back seat with any regularity I wouldn't go with the Lexus. I didn't for a primary car (TL works great for that). I didn't get the impression that the Camry would blow away the IS at all.
the IS is 0-60 in 7.9 and I believe I read the Camry is at 7.0? In real driving conditions with turns, freeway cloverleaf ramps and legal stop light accelerations, I found the IS to be quicker and more fun to drive. That is subjective of course.
If you test drive the IS again, ask the salesman to route you on a windy road, or a freeway cloverleaf at 50-60 and I think you will see the advantage the IS has over the Camry in handling.........wow there is almost no perceptible body roll.
I comes down to what you are looking for...i would choose the Camry for transportation with a little fun mixed in occasionally and the IS for Pure fun driving.
that is different from what I had seen, but the point to me is the same, the Camry is quicker off the gate by a second and the IS was much better in the turns for me.
Turns and cornering are what's exciting to me, and one second slower 0-60 means far less than a 55-80 time for passing on a two lane. I can't remember the last time I took a car to its extreme in 0-60, thats a prescription for a visit to traffic court around here. turning a cloverleaf is legal and fun. Winding the twisties up north in Minnesota at a safe but fun speed is much more appealing than a second more in green light sprint.
BUT----TO EACH HIS OWN---EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE FUN ANY WAY THEY WANT--- AND OF COURSE, YOUR MILEAGE MAY VARY
I am with you on this one. I was just stating the most recent results from some car tests by some journalists. At the time I did not have time to post a lengthy post.
Now I have a few minutes. Here goes. I am looking at the G35, G35 coupe, IS 250 sport package, Camry SE V6. All have different attributes and are very different cars altogether.
The G35 and G35 coupe are nice cars. They are essentially the same, but in different styles/seating positions/interior space arrangements. What a fun car to drive! The G35 allows you to toss it around quite a bit and also have the ability to pin you back in your seat. The major setback in my eyes would be its gas mileage, somewhat old styling (still attractive) and lacklustre interior with cheap, hard plastics. I don't like that. Always has been, and always will be a big miss on that mark. Can I live with that for a while knowing I have a fun driving car, but a "cheap" one too? I don't know. That could eat my up. Test drive appointment for the coupe is set for this Saturday. I will see if I should forget about it, or if I should just dismiss it and move on.
The IS is the one car I keep on comming back to over, and over, and over, and over again after looking at other cars as potential options. The IS has the looks, it has the technology, it has the moves, speed, power (350 a lot/250 enough), sex appeal, mileage, reliability, luxury, and overall feel. At not a single momment when I have driven the IS 350 (for an extensive time) and the IS 250 (limited - test drive for the IS 250 sport package is set when it arrives at the dealership - TBD) have I questioned how I feel about absolutely everything. When I sit inside it, everything about it seems right. Everything. When I look at it on the outside I think, "What a gorgeous car!". Sit on the inside, and, "What a gorgeous car!" It doesn't seem like there is a smidgen of cost-cutting inside that interior. Everything that was placed in its particular spot was picked with a purpose: To look good, and feel good too while lookin' sexy! On the G, you will notice that parts were picked with a purpose: Cost-cutting! And, to look mediocre while doing it! Ouch.
What are peoples' opinions on the IS 250 sport package 6MT? I am considerring both options: 6AT and 6MT. I suppose the only thing that lacks would be extra off-the-line acceleration with the IS 250, although it should be faster than most cars.... Having a confident handling car with a beautiful package is what I think matters to me most (luxury being a given in this class of cars). I suppose you can't have everything unless you get the IS 350.
SE V6 Camry. The verdict is still out on this one. Great looking car but it may be too big, and I am too young for it. Driving it might be fun, but the IS 250 most definitely will outshine it there. So, what would be the point? Less money, I guess.
Well guys, this took longer than I liked, but I thank you for the therapy session!
Yo Mike, when are you getting your Lexus IS??? Mines coming in this Saturday! Hopefully my parents will be cool enough to help me pay for the car!hehehe Thinking of getting the 250 or 350? CND Lexuses cost more than US huh! (eh!) :P Suave Tequila
Just checked out Lexus Canada, and WOW 60K for a (somewhat) loaded Lexus IS!?? :surprise: Wow Mike if your going all out, hey I need a new Canadian friend! No but seriously my IS is worth 45K was able to negotiate for 40K wonder if thats more than 60K CND! Thats crazy what options are you going to get?
The costs in Canada for cars in general is very expensive. A 40k USD car sounds about right at about 60K CND. That IS crazy, eh???
I think I am better off saving more money by getting an IS 250 sport package and getting some free options thrown in like the spoiler, tint, and then asking for lower lease payments on top of it.... I KNOW that they can do it, so it is a matter of negotiations. I plan on getting myself the car for my own birthday (sad... but great!). Here in Canada, the features for sport package are (and no available nav or ML with sport package): Power Moonroof, Adaptive Front Lighting System, Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlamps, Electrochromic Side View Mirrors, Power Telescopic Steering Wheel, Power Tilt Steering, Premium Leather Seat Surfaces, Lexus Driver Memory Seat System with Three Driver Memory Settings, Lexus Passenger Memory Seat System with Three Driver Memory Settings, Heated Passenger Seat with Ventilation Fan, 10-way Power Adjustable Drivers Seat, 10-way Power Adjustable Passenger Seat, Heated Driver Seat with Ventilation Fan, Sport Suspension, P255/40R18 (Rear), Performance Summer Radials, P225/40R18 (Front), Metallic Dash Accents, Aluminum Sport Pedals with Rubber Inserts, Chrome Scuff Plates, 18" Aluminum Alloy Wheels, Rain Sensing Wipers . Not bad. This will give me a lot of goodies to play with and keep me busy. The luxury with nav/ML package for the 350 is in total with taxes $70,200. Not too pretty. I think that I am not willing to dedicate myself to paying for that car. I don't need that kind of stress right now!
Did you get any options thrown into the IS? Tint, spoiler, etc? Do you know if you can get command start with the new IS? Which package did you get (lux/nav/ml?)? Congrats on the new car. The IS is absolutely amazing! A 45k American car SHOULD cost 51,533.01 CAD. The sport package IS 350 in USA costs $42,875. In Canada it costs $54,500. It SHOULD cost $49,000. That is according to our exchange rates. Canada always gets shafted....
Glenn: I am in the same boat as you. I also narrowed down to TL, G35 and the IS250. I also have kids that need to ship around town. However, I only have fund to replace my 2nd car. First car is a minivan.
What should I do? Should I buy the TL like you or get the IS250? Please advise, please advise..
BTW: I owned 02 Camry SE(traded for minivan). I don't know about 07 Camry but I can tell you the 02 even in SE form is BORING. It got no soul. I hate to drive it everyday during commute.
I bought an IS 250 with spt-pkg/manual. First off, the car is beautiful inside and out. To me, the G looks faded (like a old shirt) and not even comparable to the IS. After a couple of test drives this was the car I wanted the most.
I also test drove an automatic. But coming from a 5-speed, the car seemed boring to drive. The auto was silky smooth and the paddles could be fun, but to really enjoy a sport sedan, a manual is a must for the wife and I. We felt that the manual makes this car feel faster and sportier. Thus, turning it into a drivers car.
When I first test drove a manual, I was very displeased with the clutch and sloppy tranny. However, when I took another IS out a couple months later, it was much better. Still not perfect (as it still has a high release point for the clutch) but much, much better. The shift linkage seemed tighter and the clutch had some feel to it. It was night and day from my earlier test drive.
The most important thing about the sport package was the tires. They were more responsive and had more road feel, without generating much more noise. Plus, they look great. I found the sport suspension cornered well, but still had some body learn in aggressive maneuvering. Finally the HID's are on the sport package, which makes the car look even better as the sun sets.
The new Camry is a fast nice looking car. But do you really want to have the same car as the rest of your neighborhood? Also you can only get the 4 cylinder in a 5 speed manual, which is much slower than the IS 250. Buy the Camry in a couple of years when you have kids.
Lastly, I got my IS for 3,500$ off MSRP. If your dealership wants your business they'll treat you the same.
Oh you sneaky lil........................................................ Mine, when I order, is going to be Glacier Frost Mica with black leather. First pick. My second option, if I ever see it in person is GFM with sterling leather. GFM is gorgeous. Nothing compares in my opinion. Damn sexy! I definitely want tint, stock rims (very nice) and spoiler. Command start is when you can start the car when you are away. You have great taste Rick!
Hahaha thanks man, right now as we speak, Carson Toyota (in CA) are testing out the "remote starter" since the device is from Japan and if it goes through and stuff its going to be $900 or around there. Yes I will buy one of those! Yeah I've seen 2 GFM's already, I always have my mouth open when I see one! :surprise: Is "Command start" available in Canada already?
Oh btw would you like to see some GFM pics, there not mine though I'll post them here! :P
Thank you for posting. I agree that the manual will make the IS a more engaging car to drive. I have never owned a MT car, but for this one, I think I may take the plunge.
It is always nice to hear the experiences of current owners.
I don't want to have the same car as the 15 soccer moms next to me (which will happen if I buy a Camry). So, that is something that bothers me.
Question about leasing/financing. Can the 3500 you got knocked off from MSRP be aplied the same way by knocking off 3500 from the leased value (I am new to leasing)? I have several things in my arsenal when it comes to the negotiations. I am involved in sales and marketing, so I can definitely up the antee if I feel resistance.
I'm the proud owner of a Blue Onyx IS350 with sterling interior. I decided that I wanted the extra engine power more than the Nav, ML sound and Xenons so I forwent those options and just got the Premium, Accessory and 18" wheel options. Sticker on that came to $38040. With discount I paid $36700+TTL. I notice many are paying those kind of numbers for loaded 250's. Are the NAV and ML stereo and fancy lights more important than that sweet engine? Those who got the 250 'cos they wanted a stick shift or AWD are excluded from that question.
Comments
It is Onyx Blue Pearl / Black Interior. AWD / NAV / LUX Pkgs. Didn't really 'need' either but I figured this is my first luxury car and I'm a gadget guy so why not go for it?
Anyway, although I've only had the car for <2 days I LOVE it.
The cars I compared/drove: G35 Coupe (always loved this car, interior didn't feel right to me on a 37k car) TSX (I like, but just didn't do "it" for me) 325i (loved the 3 series since I can remember, the new design has grown on me some, but still doesn't pull my heart strings. Also, the BMW dealers (2) in my area are not up-to-par in my book for luxury service), TL (all I could think of is fancy Accord, even though I know it's much more). Overall I was looking for the whole experience & knew Lexus was the way to go... I just needed them to produce a car that grabbed me emotionally with the exterior and interior design - the new IS is that car <grin>.
Happy Motoring!
I am thinking of buying the IS as a third car. so the back seat leg room is not a deal breaker, but the tunnel bump out may be a deal breaker for me.
Thanks to all that have the AWD version and wish to respond.
i would suggest test driving it again. I liked it so much this time that I bought it! I too am in MN and will be glad to have AWD next fall/winter.
thanks
Thanks for the help
You could find a happy medium for all four corners, but I guess the key question here is why? Why bother getting a performance set-up in the first place if only to dull it down at the first rubber change?
225/40-18 up front and 255/40-18 in the rear.
Front measured rim width 8", overall diameter 25.1"
Rear measured rim width 9", overall diameter 26.0"
If you try to hit the middle here, your looking at perhaps a 235/40-18 at 8.5" and 25.4", which could work on the front, but will alter the geomtry in the rear a bit. You could try a 245/40-18 at 8.5" and 25.7", which may work without incident in the rear, but will change the geometry in front and will track like it has a mind of its own. It's also going to make the car look a little like it's riding spares in the rear.
Either way you slice it, you're looking at decreased capabilities by going four-alike on a car set up for the stagger. Seems hardly worth the few bucks saved on rubber.
Embrace the service bay! I have. I very much look forward to may annual rubber replacement. The anticipation of brand new road glue every twelve-month is worth every last groat...
I'm sure I'm going to get the "that's normal" and "we can't find anything wrong with it" standard answers. I've been very impressed with the Lexus Dealer so far, we'll see if the service department is as accommodating as the sales department.
Thanks,
Chintan Talati
Corporate Communications
Edmunds.com
Great info on this forum. Keep up the good work! Anyway, I was wondering if I could get feedback from some of you IS250 owners on the stock stereo. I'm seriously considering purchasing an AWD IS250. Took it for a test drive today and really loved it. The thing is I'd like to get the Levenson stereo in it, but there aren't many optioned with that and the other things I'm looking for. Is the Levenson stereo really worth waiting for, or is the stock stereo sufficient?
But why should I get an IS250 when the '07 Camry V6 has more horsepower (204 vs. 278) for the same weight (IS250 3435, Camry 3483) with not much difference in mileage (24/32 IS250 22/31 Camry)? Furthermore I calculate a 6K-8K difference in price for 'similarly equipped' cars (Nav, Leather, VSC).
Is the engine for the IS250 older technology than the '07 Camry? What is the reason the IS250 is smaller than the Camry, yet weighs the same?
Why can't Toyota Corporation just put the Camry engine into the IS250?
Could some knowledgeable person edumacate me?
My heart and eyes want the Lexus, but the head is telling me to get the Camry.
I narrowed my search down to the Acura TL, Infiniti G35 and the IS250. I bought the TL due to the fact that it would have to haul my two kids around and the back seat in the IS 250 is smaller and the G35's gas mileage and higher price. The Tl was best for my situation.
That being said, I LOVED the The lexus IS 250, so much so that I've decided to buy one as a third car. I have now driven the 07 Camry and do think it is a nice car, but it is a completely different car.
The IS is a true luxury/performance car in my mind.
1) The seats are the best seats I have even seen- bar none. They are also cooled by the air-conditioner.
2) The body roll during cornering is far-far superior to the Camry.
3) The sound system is far superior to the camry.
4) The interior sound level is far superior to the Camry.
5) The IS appears to brake better than the Camry at least in the ones I drove on the same test drive course. This is subjective on my part, but the IS was straight as an arrow on my aggressive stop and the Camry faded to the left (both of these were beaten by the incredible G35 brakes).
6) The 6 speed auto in the IS seemed seamless, the Camry's had a more noticeable shift jerk.
7) The IS has Sequential-Shift Automatic with the paddle shifters, great to have little fun, but probably won't get used much for daily driving.
8) Styling is subjective, but in my mind, the IS is far superior to the Camry in sheet metal design.
9) You asked why the Lexus weighs the same a Camry. One reason is the sound deadening sheet metal in the IS. it weighs more and goes along way to quiet down the car. Ask you dealer to show you a sample of the standard sheet metal and the lexus sheet metal.
10) The IS front suspension is a double wishbone design, and the rear suspension is fully independent, multi-link with upper and lower control arms and a toe control arm to stabilize toe (which is put into a toe-out position to improve cornering response due to the fact that the steering gear was move forward of the axles). The Camry has a standard Macpherson strut suspension.
11) The build tolerance for sheet metal are night and day. The Japan built IS has thin consistently seams and the US Built Camry's seams were all over the board from good to very poor.
These are just a few reasons that I am close to getting the Lexus for my third car (with a Yukon and TL). If none of the above characteristics matter to you, or if all you want is upscale basic transportation. the Camry is for you, just as the TL was my choice for the wife's car.
If you want great handling car that is very fun to drive the IS is a great choice.
Either way I don't think you can make a big mistake -- The are both excellent cars.
Thank you for your comments. I didn't know there was a difference in the sheet metal. I completely agree with you regarding the superiority of the seats, and the quiet ride, and your point regarding the IS's Japanese manufacture is well taken. I love love love the IS250.
The paddle shifters I'm not so keen on. I think they look silly. Maybe if you're red-lining a 300 hp IS 350 on a race track they're useful, but on the IS 250 they look like those pointy things that stick out of a samurai hat. (IMHO) It's not a deal breaker for me though.
In terms of handling, I didn't notice much difference in cornering between the IS250 and an '07 SE V6. Do you remember whether you test drove an SE? And you realize that the Camry V6 can leave the IS250 in the dust, while having the same mileage, with the same Toyota reliabity? And I don't have to use a crow-bar and the jaws-of-life to get my parents into and out of the back seat!
I'm waiting for the ES350, which seems to have the same engine capability of the '07 Camry V6. But I bet it drives like a boat.
Suave Tequila
You make a point that's been made numerous times in numerous threads on these forums. Namely, "why should I spend all this money for this vehicle, when I can get this "comparable" vehicle for significantly less money?" I put "comparable" in quotes because I feel that that term is used in a rather subjective context. If you were to truly compare every aspect of an IS250 and a camry, I'm sure you'd realize that there is much less comparability than you thought there was. I think one of the posts before mine touches on some of these more subtle aspects in difference between the 2 cars. In fact, I think you'd be hard-pressed to get a concensus that the camry is comparable to an IS250. Of course, the vast majority of what you read on these forums is driven by subjective feeling instead of objective facts (BMWs suck, G35s rule! No, G35s suck, BMWs rule!). In some respects that's OK. It would be nice if people could keep an open mind, but alas, we are faulty humans after all. At some point in a car purchase, it becomes as much an emotional purchase as it is an analytical one. Put a consumer reports in front of somebody and show them, historically, how poor the reliability of their car is and you'll always get a reason as to why that purchase was made anyway. It's because the emotional factor will always eventually come into play. Why even question it? I'm a software engineer and I take a very analytical approach to everything I do, even car purchasing. At some point, though, I will bow to the Gods of emotional car purchasing and that will enter the equation.
With that in mind, I recently test drove the IS250 and was totally blown away by it. I am currently looking to replace my pathfinder (time to leave the realm of gas-guzzling SUVs) and am looking at entry-level luxury sedans. To date, I've driven the G35x, TL and IS250 AWD. The Lexus is leading the pack and, IN MY MIND, it's not even a contest. I still need to look at the 325xi, S40 and Saab 9-3. I seriously doubt (disclaimer: personal opinion) I would be able to sit in a camry and get the same feeling I get with the Lexus. On the surface, they may appear similar, but beneath that, Lexus seems to me to have so much more going for it that it's almost like comparing apples to oranges.
In the end, it becomes a personal choice. There are no "right" decisions in the area of car purchasing. Run the numbers and use them, test drive the vehicles and use that emotional information and just run with it. In the end, it'll work for you, and that's the only person that really matters.
By the way, thanks to those who responded on the stock stereo vs. Levinson stereo question. Since it seems difficult right now to get the Levinson here with all the other stuff I "require", I'll probably go with the standard stereo system.
Are you "me" :-) ?? quite interesting because these are exactly the lineup that I test drove (a side note: I also tried Mercedes C-class). Out of those only IS and 325i truly excited me. However, it wouldn't take long for me to open up my wallet for the IS due to the fact that I find its design (both exterior/interior) as well as reliablity are much better than 3-series.
Regarding the IS-Camry thing from the other post(Ineedanewcar), I just wanna make it simple- If money seems to be an issue with your purchasing decision then I think Camry is a better choice. However, besides all of those luxuries and performance given by the IS, I also find my experience as a Lexus owner really rewarding..something that I never had in the past 10 years owing a Camry,3000GT and Audi A4. The treatment that I got from Lexus dealership
everytime I brought the vehicle in for a free carwash or service always reminds me that Lexus is not just a brand-it's an experience.
If you have the NAV without ML audio, can you still
play DVD movies on the NAV screen when parked?
I am planning on getting the NAV without ML but wanted
to know if ML audio was required for DVD movie playback.
Thanks in advance
Plus the ML is worth every penny since I had the experience to test a Lexus IS 250 with Nav/ML and "WOW" cant wait till I get my IS!
Suave Tequila
I'm only you if you are independently wealthy and have a big house on the hill.
I also think I will like the BMW when I take it out for at test run (Next week sometime, I think). I've always liked BMW but I'm not sure I'll be able to get past the reliability issues and those run-flats. Plus, the "emotional factor" of the Lexus is going to be hard to surpass. We'll see, though. I like the looks of the new BMW body style, so it'll come down to test drives. My only concern with the IS250 is rear seat space. But I have 2 small kids, so not that big of an issue. I did sit back there with the driver's seat in my "comfort" position and I had knee room. It was tight, and I wouldn't want to go on a trip of any length with adults back there, but I did fit!
If you have the NAV without ML audio, can you still
play DVD movies on the NAV screen when parked?
I don't believe you can. When I was talking to the salesperson about the Mark Levinson, he did tell me that one of the differences between the ML and the standard stereo was the ability to play DVDs, but only when parked, not while driving. That all but negates the benefits of the DVD capability. Of course, the ML stereo also gives you...
14 speakers (as opposed to 13)
DSP/Power amplifier
Discrete 5.1 surround sound
300 watts (vs. 194)
The ability to play the following formats: Dolby digital 5.1, DTS 5.1 from CD, CD-R, DVD audio
If you're a true audiophile, you would probably appreciate it. I have also heard that the standard stereo is no slouch. Unfortunately for me, in my area they don't seem to get too many IS250s configured with the ML stereo plus all the other stuff I want.
I agree. Perhaps I should elaborate. I do agree that nobody should be watching movies while driving. It's an unsafe thing to do, much like talking on a cell phone while driving (I know I'm gonna hit a chord with that one
I was merely saying that a sedan with a DVD player that only entertains the front occupants, and only while in park is really kind of useless. In my opinion, it becomes somewhat of a non-issue when comparing the ML stereo with the standard stereo.
Yes I test drove the SE with nav, leather, jbl stereo, vehicle stability control, preferred package and some odds and ends that I don't remember. The sticker was $33k+.
The IS was a 250 with nav and heated and cooled seats. sticker was $34K+. I think you said you had a 6-8K difference...were driving an IS350?
If I had to get the in-laws in the back seat with any regularity I wouldn't go with the Lexus. I didn't for a primary car (TL works great for that). I didn't get the impression that the Camry would blow away the IS at all.
the IS is 0-60 in 7.9 and I believe I read the Camry is at 7.0? In real driving conditions with turns, freeway cloverleaf ramps and legal stop light accelerations, I found the IS to be quicker and more fun to drive. That is subjective of course.
If you test drive the IS again, ask the salesman to route you on a windy road, or a freeway cloverleaf at 50-60 and I think you will see the advantage the IS has over the Camry in handling.........wow there is almost no perceptible body roll.
I comes down to what you are looking for...i would choose the Camry for transportation with a little fun mixed in occasionally and the IS for Pure fun driving.
Good luck...you will love either one.
Turns and cornering are what's exciting to me, and one second slower 0-60 means far less than a 55-80 time for passing on a two lane. I can't remember the last time I took a car to its extreme in 0-60, thats a prescription for a visit to traffic court around here. turning a cloverleaf is legal and fun. Winding the twisties up north in Minnesota at a safe but fun speed is much more appealing than a second more in green light sprint.
BUT----TO EACH HIS OWN---EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE FUN ANY WAY THEY WANT--- AND OF COURSE, YOUR MILEAGE MAY VARY
Now I have a few minutes. Here goes. I am looking at the G35, G35 coupe, IS 250 sport package, Camry SE V6. All have different attributes and are very different cars altogether.
The G35 and G35 coupe are nice cars. They are essentially the same, but in different styles/seating positions/interior space arrangements. What a fun car to drive! The G35 allows you to toss it around quite a bit and also have the ability to pin you back in your seat. The major setback in my eyes would be its gas mileage, somewhat old styling (still attractive) and lacklustre interior with cheap, hard plastics. I don't like that. Always has been, and always will be a big miss on that mark. Can I live with that for a while knowing I have a fun driving car, but a "cheap" one too? I don't know. That could eat my up. Test drive appointment for the coupe is set for this Saturday. I will see if I should forget about it, or if I should just dismiss it and move on.
The IS is the one car I keep on comming back to over, and over, and over, and over again after looking at other cars as potential options. The IS has the looks, it has the technology, it has the moves, speed, power (350 a lot/250 enough), sex appeal, mileage, reliability, luxury, and overall feel. At not a single momment when I have driven the IS 350 (for an extensive time) and the IS 250 (limited - test drive for the IS 250 sport package is set when it arrives at the dealership - TBD) have I questioned how I feel about absolutely everything. When I sit inside it, everything about it seems right. Everything. When I look at it on the outside I think, "What a gorgeous car!". Sit on the inside, and, "What a gorgeous car!" It doesn't seem like there is a smidgen of cost-cutting inside that interior. Everything that was placed in its particular spot was picked with a purpose: To look good, and feel good too while lookin' sexy! On the G, you will notice that parts were picked with a purpose: Cost-cutting! And, to look mediocre while doing it! Ouch.
What are peoples' opinions on the IS 250 sport package 6MT? I am considerring both options: 6AT and 6MT. I suppose the only thing that lacks would be extra off-the-line acceleration with the IS 250, although it should be faster than most cars.... Having a confident handling car with a beautiful package is what I think matters to me most (luxury being a given in this class of cars). I suppose you can't have everything unless you get the IS 350.
SE V6 Camry. The verdict is still out on this one. Great looking car but it may be too big, and I am too young for it. Driving it might be fun, but the IS 250 most definitely will outshine it there. So, what would be the point? Less money, I guess.
Well guys, this took longer than I liked, but I thank you for the therapy session!
Good night!
Thinking of getting the 250 or 350?
CND Lexuses cost more than US huh! (eh!) :P
Suave Tequila
Suave Tequila
The costs in Canada for cars in general is very expensive. A 40k USD car sounds about right at about 60K CND. That IS crazy, eh???
I think I am better off saving more money by getting an IS 250 sport package and getting some free options thrown in like the spoiler, tint, and then asking for lower lease payments on top of it.... I KNOW that they can do it, so it is a matter of negotiations. I plan on getting myself the car for my own birthday (sad... but great!). Here in Canada, the features for sport package are (and no available nav or ML with sport package): Power Moonroof, Adaptive Front Lighting System, Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlamps, Electrochromic Side View Mirrors, Power Telescopic Steering Wheel, Power Tilt Steering, Premium Leather Seat Surfaces, Lexus Driver Memory Seat System with Three Driver Memory Settings, Lexus Passenger Memory Seat System with Three Driver Memory Settings, Heated Passenger Seat with Ventilation Fan, 10-way Power Adjustable Drivers Seat, 10-way Power Adjustable Passenger Seat, Heated Driver Seat with Ventilation Fan, Sport Suspension, P255/40R18 (Rear), Performance Summer Radials, P225/40R18 (Front), Metallic Dash Accents, Aluminum Sport Pedals with Rubber Inserts, Chrome Scuff Plates, 18" Aluminum Alloy Wheels, Rain Sensing Wipers . Not bad. This will give me a lot of goodies to play with and keep me busy. The luxury with nav/ML package for the 350 is in total with taxes $70,200. Not too pretty. I think that I am not willing to dedicate myself to paying for that car. I don't need that kind of stress right now!
Did you get any options thrown into the IS? Tint, spoiler, etc? Do you know if you can get command start with the new IS? Which package did you get (lux/nav/ml?)? Congrats on the new car. The IS is absolutely amazing! A 45k American car SHOULD cost 51,533.01 CAD. The sport package IS 350 in USA costs $42,875. In Canada it costs $54,500. It SHOULD cost $49,000. That is according to our exchange rates. Canada always gets shafted....
I am in the same boat as you. I also narrowed down to TL, G35 and the IS250. I also have kids that need to ship around town. However, I only have fund to replace my 2nd car. First car is a minivan.
What should I do? Should I buy the TL like you or get the IS250? Please advise, please advise..
BTW: I owned 02 Camry SE(traded for minivan). I don't know about 07 Camry but I can tell you the 02 even in SE form is BORING. It got no soul. I hate to drive it everyday
I really not care since I'm going to get aftermarket stuff like:
red out tail lights
blue fog lamps
(Maybe) lightly color blue tints, like the ones you see on the Benz
Stocked chrome wheels!
I got the Lux pck, ML/Nav pck, Parking Assist, Headlamp Washers, No PCS which sux cuz' I sux at driving on the freeways :P
Oh Mike, what is the "command start"??? You mean the push button starter thingy?
Hey dont be buying a camry now!naw j/k!
Hey what color int and ext are you getting? Mines Glacier Frost Mica with Black :shades:
Suave Tequila
I bought an IS 250 with spt-pkg/manual. First off, the car is beautiful inside and out. To me, the G looks faded (like a old shirt) and not even comparable to the IS. After a couple of test drives this was the car I wanted the most.
I also test drove an automatic. But coming from a 5-speed, the car seemed boring to drive. The auto was silky smooth and the paddles could be fun, but to really enjoy a sport sedan, a manual is a must for the wife and I. We felt that the manual makes this car feel faster and sportier. Thus, turning it into a drivers car.
When I first test drove a manual, I was very displeased with the clutch and sloppy tranny. However, when I took another IS out a couple months later, it was much better. Still not perfect (as it still has a high release point for the clutch) but much, much better. The shift linkage seemed tighter and the clutch had some feel to it. It was night and day from my earlier test drive.
The most important thing about the sport package was the tires. They were more responsive and had more road feel, without generating much more noise. Plus, they look great. I found the sport suspension cornered well, but still had some body learn in aggressive maneuvering. Finally the HID's are on the sport package, which makes the car look even better as the sun sets.
The new Camry is a fast nice looking car. But do you really want to have the same car as the rest of your neighborhood? Also you can only get the 4 cylinder in a 5 speed manual, which is much slower than the IS 250. Buy the Camry in a couple of years when you have kids.
Lastly, I got my IS for 3,500$ off MSRP. If your dealership wants your business they'll treat you the same.
Buy the IS. It truly is a gorgeous car.
Oh btw would you like to see some GFM pics, there not mine though I'll post them here! :P
Suave Tequila
It is always nice to hear the experiences of current owners.
I don't want to have the same car as the 15 soccer moms next to me (which will happen if I buy a Camry). So, that is something that bothers me.
Question about leasing/financing. Can the 3500 you got knocked off from MSRP be aplied the same way by knocking off 3500 from the leased value (I am new to leasing)? I have several things in my arsenal when it comes to the negotiations. I am involved in sales and marketing, so I can definitely up the antee if I feel resistance.
I really have no idea if you can get command start in the first place with push button start. It sure would be nice though!
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