2013 and earlier Lexus IS 250 / IS 350 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

bigbwb

The final deal was made though Lexus in Rockford IL. The sales mgr. was very friendly/helpful and gave me this price almost right away. I did spend some time going back and forth with a few dealers trying to get the best price I could and this was it. A few other local dealers maxed out at around $1500-$1700 off. I feel the price is reasonable being the car has only been out since fall.
Question for you off topic a bit:
I will be keeping the 205/16 Blizzaks tires off the old BMW(selling rims separatley) and wondering if I get new 16" rims thru tirerack, will they work? I know the IS comes with 17" wheels and much wider tires, so thats why I ask. I think the all seasons won't cut it next winter here in WI.

Take care,
Brandon

artredjet

Digital_b can you email me the balise info as well? My email is in my profile. Thanks in advance for your help!

digital_b

youve got mail.

y2kvette

Hi Sebast23. Stupid question, but did your inception costs include sales tax on the car, too? I'm getting the standard quote right now, which was $361/mo with $5k down + state/local sales tax, etc. I figured it would amount to close to $9-10k by the time everything was said and done, and a total lease cost would be around $580/mo + tax. I wasn't prepared psychologically to pay that much. Thanks in advance for any help you can provide. Maybe I can rationalize a trip to visit my sister in FL if I can't get that deal here!

bigbwb

I know a few posts back, I told everyone my deal of $2000 off sticker on the IS250 RWD auto(prem. pckg only). Well, after going back and forth with 2 different dealers, the one had stopped at $1700 off and so I went with the dealer in Rockford IL. Now 2 days later the original dealer in WI called back and could not lose this sale so they offered me $2200 off and I checked over the purchase agreement and went ahead with it! Thats exciting for me. Heck of a deal. I already spoke with the other dealer about getting my $500 deposit back and emailed him again to credit me back. Anyone think they will give me a hard time? The person said to let him know if I wanted my deposit back, because he could'nt beat it. So I can't see it being an issue.(they were also very good to work with but hey, money is money)
Anyway, just thought you all should know what a little dealing can get you if you are patient.

Good luck,
Brandon

jvr1

Its a tough market here in SoCal, esp LA. Most of the dealerships were talking smack (MSRP or 500 off) and refused to negotiate. But those guys are the losers...there are a couple dealerships who will go around 2000 over invoice. Here was my deal:

IS 350/Blue Onyx w beige interior.
Premium pkg
18' 5 spoke alloy whls
Accessory pks (cargo net, trunk mat, wheel locks)
Spoiler

MSRP: 38589
Invoice: 34189
(This incl. 443 advertising fee that Lexus charges the dealer. Invoice (per KBB) is 33746, add the 443 to this for the total invoice price. Two different dealers told me this, and it seems to be true from all the Internet car consumer sites. But don't EVER let them charge this separately...its already included in the invoice price).

My final price: 35,943 + tax + lic + doc fee (45).
1754 > invoice
Car was on the lot, picked up same day.

In my opinion, the smart play is to pick the car you want, make an offer around 1500 over invoice (doubt you'll get any better right now) and see if they will counter-offer. Then use the counteroffer to play them off each other. I have been looking like crazy, and every dealership has some 350's they are trying to move, esp in less popular colors. Longer the cars are on the lot, less holdback money they save. At these numbers, most of the sales guys won't even return calls because they won't make any money. But toward the end of the month, when the sales quotas are coming up, you can get a deal.

Also, KBB is the best place to work out the exact invoice price, they break down all the options and describe them as they appear on the sticker.

I really think the market is softening just a little.

Good luck!

grehce

I'm just about to complete a sale with a dealership that is offering $34500 (37690.71 w/taxes & fees) for the IS 250 with Premium Pkg and Navigation system in Smoky Granite Mica, Blk leather interior, & Maple trim BUT I just got a call from a friend who used a broker to find the IS 250 for $30k out the door including tax and registration fees. I haven't even heard of anyone getting close to $30k for this car. Does anyone have any advice on whether or not I'm getting an average deal or if I'm getting rooked? :confuse:

sailing216

30K out the door??? 30k is a good deal on a base M/T with Lux Pkg and No taxes or fees yet (just over 2k off sticker). I'd get the specifics from your broker friend, that price is a bit fishy on a new 250 with everything included. Maybe it was a demo, but most likely it's a new 05 IS 300.

On the base 250 (they all now come with LuxPkg), I'm hearing upto 2k off is max right now. Maybe more if you are getting options like 18" wheels. I'm in the mid-west where demand is not as hot. Too cold and snowy for anything but the AWD model. Of course dealers say AWD is in such high demand, and if you mention RWD, "we'll those are hard to come by and Rare, so order time is lengthy and the Rarity means they don't deal much." They got a line for everything. Rare is an NSX with Automatic a year or two after they came out, not a Lexus as much production as possible car. Rare would be a IS250/350 without Leather...

z71bill

Test drove the IS 250 - really liked the car - but did not like the footnotes in the sales brochure.

Brake pads not expected to last 20,000 miles!

Tire life SUBSTANTIALLY less than 20K (17 inch) & less than 15K (18 inch)!

I understand extra performance will cost extra - but I did not expect a brake job and new tires every 18 months.

The selection of tires in 225 40 18 and 255 40 18 is very limited - so I don't see very many options - it would not be that big of a deal if the stock tires did not last very long - if my second set would go 30K.

Anyone know what Lexus gets for a basic brake job? I am guessing around $1,000 - The last time I had a brake job done at a Toyota dealership (way back in 1996) it was almost $700.

I am having second thoughts - but on the other hand - at least Lexus tells you up front what to expect.

bewitz

Just drove the car home today. I absolutely love it. Averaged 77 MPH and 23.6 MPG per the computer. Asked the salesperson if he minded some referrals. He didn't mind (salesman name deleted per forum rules), so check out Lexus of Omaha. This is my 4th Lexus, and it was the usual, great experience, EXCEPT that by not dealing with my friends in Dallas I got a MUCH better deal. Didn't want to, but sticker price just isn't in the cards for me. BTW, don't expect many deals on AWD 250's in Nebraska . . . they must be about like 350's in Texas.

tinuvin

Just got a Red IS 250 RWD AT with black leather, NAV, premium package, and 18 inch wheels for $2000 off MSRP at Steven Creek Lexus. They were only willing to go $1000 off for a Red/Cashmere model that was coming in next week. Most fleet manager were quoting $1500 off MSRP for similar cars.

derekgo

tinuvin...sounds like you got a good deal! I'm in the market for an is250 rwd. Sounds like they're willing to
deal now. Gonna check it out this weekend.

kyfdx

Nope... tinuvin can't give you the fleet manager's name..

Please read the message in RED below this message..

Thanks,
kyfdx
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buprestid

I am looking to purchase an IS 250 RWD automatic. Are they available to purchase with no options, just the base RWD auto? I mean no premium package updgrade, larger wheels etc. It seems to me you have to buy one of the packages for not only the IS but also other lexus cars. They have no base models in stock.

Thanks

intence

If they don't have it in stock, they can probably special order it for you. Of course, you'll almost always get a better deal by buying something off the lot.

grehce

I found out the next day that it was for a new 05 IS 300, whew! That was a relief! Good call Sailing216!!!

I'm pretty happy getting $2k off MSRP plus a free Sirius subscription from Longo. I've found that the best way to get a deal is to email and talk to MANY dealerships (I talked to ~10 dealerships, 50 mi radius of Los Angeles) and pit the top 2 against each other for your business. On a sidenote, fleet pricing from AAA or COSTCO do not offer as much discount as putting 2 dealerships up against each other.

Just 6 more days before its delivered to my door!!! :P

carnack

Well Lexus has lost another Customer because of there BullS*&#
It started over 90days ago when I ordered a IS350, I ordered with M.L sound system
And the Luxury package, the Mark Levinson was on the sheet that you could order alone, with NO Nav. So 3 months later, the dealer says the Factory is not making it that way yet and don’t know when they will.
The strange thing is that they had the Same Car coming in with my name on it with NAV.
I did not order it that way, its only a 3000.00 UP Grade! I don’t need it.
It’s the old Bait and switch, or Super Size Me!
I was so Pissed off I called Lexus Corporate, they want things to go well with there dealers, they are very nice and helpful.
If any one has any Problems with dealers you have to call Lexus Corporate, they will
Shake up the dealer.
End result, The dealer thinks it no big deal they wasted over 3 monthes of my time. The price will have to be low on this Car. :mad:

dmk720

What # did You call?

kyfdx

Reminder... you can't post phone numbers in the forums..

Thanks,
kyfdx

mshefman

Friends, I am in the market for a new IS 250. Test drove it yesterday and I know this is the car for me; now my problem is to fit it in my budget. I want to try to pay no more than $400/month and can put $2000 down if I have to. Dealer gave me a quote of $3400 down and $545/month with 15K miles. I know this is an outrageous quote, but when I am shopping around to different dealers in the area, what should I be asking for? I am pretty illiterate when it comes to car buying and dont want to get taken advantage of? Do they still give better deals at the end of the month or is that a myth? Any and all helpful hints welcomed? TIA

grehce

I just love how few of these I see on the road! I just got my IS 250 w/Nav & Premium pkg in Smoky Granite Mica and I LOVE IT!

The handling is smooth like butter! I have to admit the navigation will take some getting used to and a keyless ignition/entry is a beautful thing. The sound system is top notch and the perforated/ventilated leather seats are uber-luxurious for your typical urban commuter. I can't wait to take this puppy on a road trip and really get to know all the ins and outs of the nav features! :shades:

suave_tequila

HAVE FUN IN UR NEW LEXUS!
BTW what made u pick the SGM over the Black? And is the SGM more like a washed-out black sort of like metallic black? I had to ask since I havent seen one up close and the internet pics, just dont do justice! THANKS

grehce

The SGM has to be specially ordered, and according to the dealership, SGM is the most sought after color for the IS this year. I was debating whether or not I wanted the black but decided to go a tinge lighter--charcoal/metallic-like black finish with the black leather interior and auburn bird's eye maple trim.

Check out the IS brochure if you *happen* to stop by a Lexus dealership, I must warn you though--there are some heartstopping photo spreads in that full sized issue! You've been warned... :P

ccjw511

Just bought IS350 w/
Luxury pkg w/ 18" Wheel
Navi/Levinson
Accessory pkg
Spoiler
I got it for pretty decent deal. About $3000 off from the MSRP.

sbrus

That is a great deal. Where did you get it?

ccjw511

You can get it from the Concord Lexus.

ironmiha

Hello,, do you know if they have any Is 250 models in stock and if they are willing to work with you?

rapidmotion

I just went to a dealer in rockville, md....who claims lexus doesn't sell the is 250 with navigation without AWD (on the east coast)

Is this true?

grehce

No, I just bought a IS 250 w/Nav RWD. I think that dealership's trying to jerk you around.

ccjw511

I don't know much about IS250 but I have a friend is also looking for one as well. I think you should be able to get IS250 w/ navi and 18" wheel for around $36k.

leighton

I'm going to buy an IS 250 grehce. Where in the LA area did you get your deal? :confuse:

leighton

Did you ever buy the car? I am looking to buy the car in the LA area and wanted to know how much you paid.

grehce

First and foremost, find the car you want down to the nitty gritty, whether that means picking up a brochure from a dealership or doing all the research online or both. Test drive the IS 250 and 350 to find out which better suits your driving needs. Seeing and driving the car in person will give you a better idea of what your getting yourself into, also this gives you time to ask questions to a Lexus salesperson without the sales pressure.

Then, I would recommend talking to several Internet Fleet Mgrs in LA County (there are several dealerships all listed at Lexus.com) and ask each one what the lowest price they can offer on the exact vehicle you want. Take the top 2 or 3 and tell them what the other is offering. I guarantee that someone will want your business enough to out-do the other, especially given that its quarter-end for the auto industry and I'm sure every dealership and salesperson wants to make their numbers. Note that within the dealership there may be more than one Internet Mgr and each wheel and deal differently. So if one gives you the "oh, I can't do better than x amount of dollars," try another Internet Mgr at the same dealership.

Good luck! With a bit of legwork, you can get a far better deal behind-the-scenes than to ever walk into a dealership unsure about how much to pay and what vehicle you want. Salespeople will take advantage of the unknowing customer, but as the saying goes, a fool and his money are soon parted.

raeldubr

What is the name of the dealership in Wisconsin you got the $2200 below MSRP?

leighton

Grehce,

I bought the car yesterday. Here are the details of my deal:
IS 250 Manual base
Premium Plus pkg
18" rims
MSRP 31494
Dealer Invoice (I saw what they paid, but don't remember the exact price but it was close to 28100)
I paid 28750...$650 over dealer invoice!

All but two dealers balked at my bid. Believe it or not I could have done slightly better. One dealer was ready to improve his offer at the last minute. I would highly recommend either dealership, because of their willingness to deal with the customer.

wtie

Hi,

I'm looking to purchase the vehicle in LA county too. Which dealer did you get that deal that?

bigbwb

Raeldubr:

I got the IS250 from Safro Lexus in Brookfield WI. It took quite a bit of negotiating back and forth with another dealer to get to this price. I dealt with internet managers out of IL and then came back to Brookfield to see if they would match it and they did plus $200. The key here is to be patient and don't settle for the B.S. line "they only sell for MSRP".

Good luck and if you need any more info don't hesitate to ask me.

Brandon

nitronyc

hey everyone, im looking to buy an IS250AWD with luxury and nav in the jersey area... im willing to go all over the state really, anyone know of any good dealers?

i need some advice also on how to get the best deal. i just cant pay sticker. i have an 05 Altima i want to trade in as well.. thanks i appreciate all the help anyone can provide :-)

leighton

I purchased my IS 250 via the internet sales division of Lexus of Glendale. The internet sales division of Lexus of Oxnard also was willing to sell me the vehicle and at a price slightly better than what I paid in Glendale. I chose Glendale only because of its proximity to where i work in Pasadena. I'm guessing I could have shaved another $200 -$300 dollars off the price had I had more time and patients.

How did I get my price? I basically I was doing what Greche recommended. I contacted all the Internet fleet managers explained that I was going to buy the car cash at the end of the month...which ended up being the end of the week..I couldn't wait any longer. Once they knew I was serious and I got a good price I put a deposit on a car at that price. Then I contacted the other dealers, told them I put a deposit on a car, gave them the price to see if they could better it. I also told them what I wanted to pay...trying to leave some money in the deal (although I'm sure they made good money despite my extremely below market bid). Some dealers balked at my bid, that left Glendale and Oxnard. I'd reccomend either dealership, because they are serious about moving cars. Ironically, the internet fleet manager at Santa Monica was the one who convinced me to put the deposit on the car in Oxnard. He said if I'm "really" getting that price he'd buy one.

If you're in this forum you're probably ahead of the curve. Make sure you do your research, know the prices (both invoice and MSRP), know what options you want, recognize when you're getting a good deal and be able to put your money down.

kgk3

Does anybody have any strong opinions as to whether it'll be worth the money and wait (~100 days) to special order an IS with the ML sound system. Is it that much better than the stock Pioneer stereo?

kgk3

I was quoted $2500 off MSRP a luxury package IS 350 (MSRP $43589) from the internet salesman at a dealership in Maryland. Has anybody done better than that in the Mid-Atlantic region?

kgk3

I think you can get alot accomplished by calling all the dealerships you're willing to drive to and speaking to the internet salesperson. I've been amazed at the variety of price quotes I've been given on the exact same car ranging from MSRP to $2500 off MSRP. That said, I think Cherry Hill Lexus (NJ) offered me $1500 off an IS350 (which are hard to come by) so I imagine they'll give you a good deal on an IS250. You can than play each dealership off one another and just tell 'em you're willing to drive 2 hours for a better price.

lbaily

I bought an IS 350, sport pkg, nav, etc for $39,000 in mid-December from Lexus of Annapolis. The MSRP was $43,069. I had contacted the Internet Sales Manager in November. It was a great buying experience. I live in Northern Virginia. It was worth the drive to Annapolis to pick up the car.

intence

Just purchased an IS250, base model (auto) + 18" wheels + preferred accessory package, MSRP was $32,664. After contacting several dealerships in Texas (DFW, Houston, and Austin), most weren't willing to move much from MSRP. Park Place in Grapevine gave me a great deal, around $2000 off from MSRP. I worked with a sales rep from the Internet Department, and it was the easiest automotive buying experience i've had. We agreed on the price, I gave them a deposit, and they contact me when the car arrived.

No extra/hidden fees or games from the dealer. No last minute changes on the price either. After getting frustrated by contacting multiple dealerships and getting the MSRP only, or $500 off line, Park Place was able to give me a decent price on the car (compared to others in the same area), and they made the whole purchase process totally painless.

chiefrocker

I am looking to get an IS250 or IS350 and I want to pay either $35,550+Tax/Tags/Title or $39,316+Tax/Tags/Title. The cars will have the following equipment:

Luxury Package with 18" wheels and Navigation

Is this price reasonable it is approx $2000 over invoice?

Thanks for your help!

P.S. - The 250 is non all wheel drive

Chris

kgk3

Wow! $4000 off MSRP is the best I've seen or heard of so far. Nice work.

acco20

Two of my sons have Lexus automobiles. One has the ML system, one does not. The non ML system is a nice sounding system that probably will satisfy most buyers. The ML system is in a class all its own. Absolutly no comparison. The ML may be the best auto sound system ever. I have heard some home systems, that are supposed to be exceptional, that are not as "fine" as the ML. I believe the extra expence for this system is money well spent. Hope this helps......

nitronyc

Thanks a lot for your suggestions KGK3 I'll def keep everyone updated on my purchase

turtlish

Hi I am planning on buying either IS250 RWD or IS350 RWD, and just visited the Lexus dealer in Concord, the salesman told me that only IS350 can have the bi-xenon HID headlamps. I don't need such horsepower as in IS350 but I really want to have those headlamps.. is it true?

dkaplan435

Yea baby! The ML was right there as one of the reasons why I purchased the 350.

And, to make it sweeter I got 2k of MSRP.

Dave, in Chicago