BGDC... I 100% agree. I don't want to have to dish out a fortune to an aftermarket upholsterer to get a custom leather interior just because Lexus couldn't figure adding a few colours to the palette. Is anybody else bored with black, grey, and beige? Think outside the box. I would love a brown or BMW terra.
motown ---> IS 460 may come MY2008. Speculation though.
Given the high gas prices, I think Lexus is missing the boat by not offering the diesel engine in North America. I am sure there is a market for it here. Also does anyone know when the IS460/500 will be available?
Diesel in my nape of the timber is currently running at $3.499, while super (high test, ethyl, 91) spins at $3.179 at the same stand.
I believe I can wait patiently for IS "d"s for a while!
On beige: Toyota has discovered that their watered beige (Ivory) can support their exterior palette and vice-versa, so creamy is what you get, guys. Unfortunate, as, like y'all, I'd really like a deep natural leather inside (to compliment a real forest green on the outside!). Won't happen this MY!!
Between black and Ivory, having lived with black for three years, I'd be going light myself.
The IS 460 name has already been patented and it has been seen zooming around Nurburgring as well. The possibility of this car going into production is likely.
I think everybody would've been happy if Lexus had said "we're going to build a car that will compete with the C-class."
Maybe they would've had to name it something other than IS, but they could've built the same car and everyone would be like, "wow, good job Lexus."
We have to face the fact that Lexus builds that kind of car, and isn't prepared to make the compromises that BMW is. So I'm going to think of the IS as a C-class beater, and leave it at that. Not that I would want a C-class over a BMW =/.
"Optimists see a glass half full. Pessimists see a glass half empty I see a glass that's twice as big as it needs to be..."
That was a classic George Carlin, Carlisimo, and you're probably right on the money. The car, in all likelihood is deficient in only one way: it has no real deficiencies. It just depends to what yardstick you're measuring!
"Exactly what I am looking at, including BMW 330I.
My choice hands down, Infinity G35X. Great AWD, nice interior, not quite up to Lexus standards, but much improved this year. Mid 30’s loaded. Great handling car, great engine, one of the best out there. Also much more interior room. And lastly, it's not a first year vehicle. No recalls. Even Lexus and Honda have them. Anyway that's my opinion, take it for what it's worth.!!!! """
This is part of a review for the G35 The G35 sedan corners better than most front-drive sedans like the Acura TL and it boasts more horsepower than the rear-wheel-drive BMW 330i, Lexus IS 300, and Mercedes-Benz C320. It's also practical, offering more interior space than other cars in the near-luxury class. The G35's daring design, with stacked headlamps, catamaran fenders, and short overhangs, gives both sedan and coupe a unique look we find appealing. The G35 costs less than a comparable BMW, Lexus or Mercedes, but it gives up nothing in handling and performance. The Infiniti G35 comes in two forms: four-door sedan and two-door coupe. Each offers a choice of five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. Infiniti's slick all-wheel-drive system only comes on the G35x AWD sedan with the automatic.
So I'm sure the new IS sounds great, but also for me AWD is a geat option, and not available on IS 350, not now. Also, first year pricing will be high, cause quite frankly, people don't try to Negotiate with Lexus. 1st year vehicle- Never ever buy first year vehicle!!!! Don't care who it is!!!!!!
Bought brand new 2005 Honda Odyssey Touring, 3 recalls already this year!!! Not that many people know about that, do they. American vehicles, the whole world knows about their recalls.
Moral of all this; Bang for Buck, Infiniti has excellent vehicles, including the new M, and with Infinity/Maxima V6 Engine, this is Hall of Fame engine,one of the 10 best for last 10 years!!!
G35-Tough to beat!!! Bang for Buck with AWD, cheaper than IS + BMW New Lexus IS 350 and New BMW 330i are great cars, but 1st year vehicles always have bugs!!!
This is also my opionion and not ment to put down anyone, just adding my 2 cents.
Buying the new IS 350 is not a bad choice at all, simply not for me at this time.
Say what? When I was shopping I looked at an IS300 marked at 35k. Before I left I had them down to 32k. The salesguy called and offered me the car for under 30k.
I got an '03 Is300 and without hardly any work the sales guy offered me $3000 off sticker. I'm sure I could have worked more but for me that was enough. As BGDC said, they'll deal...
Shift paddle...click...delay...downshift...rev and finally you're in gear. I drove a BMW with one and I about committed suicide on the drive. Utterly worthless junk. Same with the G35's automanual.
Click a DSG..in gear. The delay's so short I can't represent it in a sentence.
Paddle shifting a manumatic is good for one thing only, and that's holding gears.
I use mine every day on my commute, and without it, brothers, lemme tell ya, that tranny would be absolutely worthless for anything except running errands in rush hour and cruising the freeway for hours.
Hope to end all that (for me anyway) tomorrow when I go to this drive event. Hope I get to drive both (you only have a half hour slot). If I don't, is it better to drive the slower 250 and know the other one is faster or should i go for the 350 and not know how much slower the former is? Don't know if you can really open it up during the drive, so it may not matter. Feel free to shoot back your "always wanted to ask" questions before 11 am EST tomorrow. Wonder if they'll let me take pictures...
At the NY auto show in April, the Lexus staff said the 250 would start at 29k, and the 350 just slightly higher. I hope that does mean 32k. You can be sure I will ask that question. And hopefully get an idea on the official release information.
Don't worry about allocating your time that tightly. You'll have PLENTY of time to drive anything you want - as many times as you want.
I went to the Lexus event in Columbus last year. BOY, was it fun! They only have you ARRIVE in blocks of time so as to try to control the flow of people. Having said that, you can drive any vehicle more than once - although you will have to exit the car and give someone else a turn. They have several tracks set up with lots of turns, and several obstacles. But even saying that, it only takes a couple minutes (max) to complete it. Hence, the car drivers turn over pretty quickly.
If I remember, they had 4 "tracks" - one for luxury cars (LS, ES), one for sportier cars (IS, GS) and then 2 SUV tracks - one for "on-road" SUVs (RX) and off-road (GX, LX).
I assume you realize that there will be competitive vehicles in every class so, for example - you'll probably be able to compare that IS with a BMW 3, MB C, Acura TL, Infinit G - you get the idea.
I'm really sorry Columbus didn't get the event this year because it was really a first-class event. Not only will you get to drive all these great vehicles, they'll even FEED you, and give you a parting gift.
Also, all the staff was very professional. No one pushed tried to get you to "like" anything. Occasionally, they'd ask you what you thought of one vehicle or another. After driving an LS, I asked if they had a "euro suspension" version there (or whatever it's called). They didn't have one out at the time. Shortly after, I stopped to eat. When I returned to the drives, one of the associates found me, and told me that they had gotten one out for us to drive. Let me tell you - that suspension made a HUGE difference on the LS. Anyway, my point being - if there's something you want - just ask. If they can accomodate, I'm sure they will.
I have not bought a Lexus - yet - but Toyota and Honda negotiate - and even when they are trying hard to stick to MSRP - like on a hot new model - they still negotiate the trade in - which is the same as far as I am concerned - no difference between chopping $1,000 off the price or giving me $1,000 more for my trade.
I wonder where anyone would get the idea that they don't negotiate price? Could it be from the sales person?
New Lexus IS 350, you won't get much room, especially the first 6 months.
The older IS wasn't in demand as much, so there is room.
Try negotiating on the RX 400h, then try on the older IS300.
Not very difficult to get great deal on IS. You won’t on the 400h.
And lastly, trading a car into a dealer is a good way to lose money, certainly not make money!!!!!
Chrysler 300C with Hemi you couldn’t touch under MSRP when they came out.
Now with the Charger/Magnum out you can get a good deal on the 300C, Ford Mustang, and especially the convertible you can’t touch under MSRP, and That’s even if you can find one the way you like it.
So it general, Hot Models no matter who the Manufacturer is, are tough to negotiate.
Slower models, and soon to be discontinued models, should be close to or even below Dealer invoice!!!!
And never sell your car to dealer unless you first couldn't sell it yourself first. You lose money every time.
With more 300hp, IS350 is not going have hesitation. In fact, according to Car & Driver, top-gear acceleration from 50-70mph is only 3.4 seconds (BMW took 9.3 seconds). WOW, that's an incredible performance number for 4 door sedan.
top-gear acceleration from 50-70mph is only 3.4 seconds (BMW took 9.3 seconds).
Top gear acceleration is calculated by flooring the car in top gear obviously a car with an automatic transmission is going to down shift.
Was the 330 an automatic? comparing an auto to a manual does not give results that are comparable. It’s probably quicker, top gear acceleration, than a new manual Vette as well.
Tog gear acceleration is the most ridiculous stat EVER. Only a freaking moron with a manual would try to accelerate fast in 6th gear at 50 mph. That's 3rd gear speed.
I don't know which mag uses it, but it's little more than a rag for using such a worthless stat.
Just got back from the Lexus event on Saturday, Sept 17. Have to say, this was a very worthwhile experience, my first time, and recommend it highly! Overall, it was fun, informative, and very well organized, just as you'd expect from Lexus. There's people serving food / drinks even while you wait on line! Gifts include a leather portfolio (Lexus embossed) with a Zagat's restaurant guide, and a genuine Lexus pen. Anyway, on to the the CARS!
After much anticipation and several months wait, I finally got to drive the IS350. It must be driven to be believed! Very, very quick off the line, I fully believe the 5.6 sec Lexus claimed 0-60 times. Handling tight and crisp, was able to take the vehicle to the limits of tires / suspension without a problem. I'm glad the vehicle has VDIM. I did see a few fools run over the red cones; these clowns should stay home next time! I finished the course in about one minute (seemed even quicker). Long lines to drive the IS's, but well worth the wait!
I also got to drive the BMW 330i competitor vehicle, which puts all into perspective. My first time behind the wheel of the BMW, and yes it did impress. It felt a bit larger inside (it's about 0.6 inches wider overall). It also had the Nav and the Lexus was w/o the nav system. Lexus gives you the other cars to drive to make up your own mind. While I was indeed impressed how well the 330i handled the course, the Lexus wins out on sheer speed and pure exhilaration. I had a smile pasted on my face from ear to ear upon leaving the IS350.
So now, I wait until mid October until it arrives at the Lexus dealer. I'm counting the days...!
Thanks!!! Glad that you found it interesting reading. I am a member of a website dedicated to IS's. www.is300.net As such, we got the opportunity to preview the new IS at one of the press events. All the members that attended wrote an article with their impressions of the car. In the front page of the site you will find three additional articles from other members.
“Top gear acceleration is calculated by flooring the car in top gear obviously a car with an automatic transmission is going to down shift.”
“Tog gear acceleration is the most ridiculous stat EVER. Only a freaking moron with a manual would try to accelerate fast in 6th gear at 50 mph.”
Totally agree. Whoever concocted that stat should be lobotomized.
One thing that has caught my attention about the IS is the lack of room particularly in the back seat. Basically it seems like a 2+2+2, the last 2 meaning the back doors. I like my sedans to fit four human beings who can be given a pass for having an extra slice or two. I mean there has to be some significance to the “sedan” aspect of the sport sedan. Me thinks this will come back to bite them. And I hope my head doesn’t hit the roof like it does in the GS, rendering it unbuyable. The 3 seems more family-friendly. However, I don’t like what I’m hearing about early 3-series reliability issues.
There’s always something. Seems like it’s getting harder and harder to choose a car these days. And it doesn’t help when you’re a fussbudget. I think if I wanted a sports car with four seats and two useless back seats I’d panhandle some extra loose change and pay the ransom for an M3.
What a day, what an event, and most importantly what a Car!
This is my first taste of lexus event and boy do they know how to throw a party. The food was great, the organization was phenomenal and the cars were great. Brief overview of what to expect if you are going to attend to NY event. Go early, I was registered for 12:45, I went at 11:00 and there was no hassle. I stayed till closing at 6pm! First, bring your license and register at the front desk. After registering they give you a wrist band, if they put it on your left hand = driver, right hand=passenger, so make sure they put it on your left! They then give you your name tag and direct you to a seating area. At this area you get a beautiful woman(the ones that are at the autoshows) to explain the days events and a brief overview of the layout of the complex and the cars you are about to drive. After that they point you to the food and off you are. Inside of the tent there is a GS, RX400h, IS250 and the IS race car. There is also a GS430 Mark levinson demo area where they play a DVD for you and show you the capabilities of the system.
On to the tracks, there are 4 tracks, 1 w/ a RX400H, 1 w/ a GS430,GS300,E500, and a 530i. the next one is with a IS350, IS250 and 330i. The last track is the "full line of lexus" track with the LS430, RX,LX,GX,ES and SC.
The IS350 was an amazing vehicle, I had a chance to drive it twice, back to back against the 330i. Subjectively I love how the car looks, the style the stance and the interior is amazing. The 330i seemed simply spar tan, the interior layout seemed in disarray. To the driving, the track isn't perfect, it being a parking lot in Belmont Park, in NYC, w/ snow, rain which destroys the pavement. There were ruts, imperfections and even a few potholes! On to the IS350, the car just pulls and pulls and pulls, I took the first 3 turns w/o even touching the brakes and I didn't even hear a squeal. The car seems to absorb the imperfections with perfection! On this one 180degree right turn which was littered with bumps, the car didn't even budge. After braking into the turn, I began accelerating out of the turn and it just kept gripping and gripping to no avail.
To the 330i, this car although I do not enjoy some individual's view of its int/ext styling, drives like a dream. Not as quick as the 350, since it was an auto. I'm not sure if there was a manual option there though that would have been interesting. None-the-less, again the acceleration was great and the sound was downright blissful! At WOT with the windows up, A/C off, stereo Off(didn't have the time to learn how to turn it on!!), the car just screams. I was a previous owner of a 328ci, but this car just screams!!! It even chirped on the 1-2 shift. Acceleration was in no way as quick as the 350 though. On the 180degree turn, I had to let off the throttle a bit coming out of the turn. Seems as if the imperfections in the road didn't suit it well to the stiff suspension. It seemed to have a "sidestep" effect on the bumps which was very disheartening and very scary, btw DSC was off or malfunctioning, the yellow ! was continually lit. In my previous 328 that either meant it was busted of off!, unsure if they changed it any.
After 2 back to back drives, I have to say lexus did an amazing job with the 350, int, ext, handling and acceleration.
I had a chance to take many pictures of the show car inside the tent, although it was a 250 the car was amazing, the fit, and finish was amazing. The rear reading lights were just like the GS', nice soft blue LED's. I have to say, the rear seats are very cramped. Having a 4 year old and 1 on the way this will be a big decision and hurdle to overcome. The front aluminum door sills are even lit "LEXUS". Amazing detail! All compartments are oil dampened and materials in the car say nothing less than $50,000+. There was even a rear powered sunshade which I hope is an option on the 350. Even the "oh $hit" handles on the roof pillars were oil dampened! I cannot stress the little details enough. If you are going to the event, you will love it! If you are not registered, go anyway. Walk ins are accepted, just don't tell too many people!! Again this is contingent on space availability so be prepared to be turned away if it's full and if you're not registered.
Have fun.
The lightening inside the tent was pretty dim, so I had to take most of the pictures w/ the flash which causes alot of light reflection, sorry! Pictures of the event: Taste of Lexus
I am always curious about what bloggers have to say about certain products or events since often times they are more accurate than reporters.
A friend of mine is an avid Lexus fan. He owns a 2003 GS430. He LOVES THAT CAR. He sent me the link. After reading all the positive reviews, I think the IS will be a worthy competitor to the BMW 3 series.
There is no doubt that an automatic equipped BMW 330 would be no match in straight line performance against the IS350. Factoring in Lexuses better fit and finish, better NVH, and long term track record I think BMW does have something to worry about. No if only the IS350 came with a true 6 speed manual tranny that would have been icing on the cake.
Did you try to engage the DSC function on the 330i? Is there an optional sport package/suspension on the IS350? What's your take on the IS250? I notice there was no 545i to match up with the E500 and GS430.
"No if only the IS350 came with a true 6 speed manual tranny that would have been icing on the cake."
There we go again. Toyota will be laughing all the way to the bank if they can steal half of those Automatic 330 buyers. Then come Mid-2007 a Coupe, a Wagon, a Super Sport package with Hybrid or a 460 V8. By mid 2008, IS will outsell the 3 in U.S.
Actually, there were no sales person(s) at the location. The company servicing the event was a company by the name of "AMCI". The reps there said all they know is it will be less than the 330i.
Unfortunately I really had no time to play with the cars as the lines were really long, though they moved quick. Once someone gets out of the car, you get in, move up to the red/green lights, and they give you the signal.
I do not think there was the optional sport package on the car as I remember it being 17" rims. I think the sport package will bring it to 18". Again this is speculation, as I noticed the 250's and 350's having the same size/style rims. These were pre-production models, and the car in the showroom even had a sign that noted this.
The IS250 was definetly much slower, but no slouch by any means. No match for the 330i. I would definetly like to see a match up between that and the 325i. If I were in the market for a sports sedan, entry level RWD it would be the 350. If I required AWD, the G35X and even the Volvo S60R fully loaded 2005 = 38000 from carsdirect would be my options.
2 "professional" drivers raced the 350 and 330i. It was no match whatsoever. From start to finish the 350 had ATLEAST a 10 car lead.
They also raced the GS300 and the 530i in a single line. I am unsure why they didn't use the same format as the 350 and 330i(side/side), but the GS300 definetly pulled away from the 530i, especially in the twisties. Now I love lexus, but I am definetly would have to see more testing to validate this!
From all accounts, I think the 545 should atleast keep up with the GS430, if not surpass it. The E500 was a beast to drive though!
Thanks for the great report and photos. Concerning the size of the rears seats, would you say that adults would fit uncomfortably or is it really just for carrying items. Could you compare the size of it to other brands. I went to my Lexus dealer yesterday and they said the pricing woujld start at $32K for the 250 and $39-$40K for the 350. I It seemed that they were unsure when asked and it was like they were forced to give me numbers. Thanks, Jason
Other than the obvious performance advantages of the 350 relating to engine, suspension, and wheels and tires, are there any other advantages that it has over the 250, such as standard features that are included in its base price, interior appointments, available options, etc.?
Just got a email back from my saleswomen. According to her, prices won't be released until October 12th at some big auto show. Her best guest is that a 350 fully loaded will be $56000 cnd. About 48 American. This seems a little steep. Let's hope she's wrong.
Pricing generally never translates across borders and as we've stated many times before pricing has not been officially released from Lexus.
Lexus has been very tightlipped about actual delivery dates and pricing, therefore we probably won't know until the last possible second.
My salesmen said the dealership had spoken with someone and were under the impression that they should have inventory by the end of the month. No firm inventory #'s or pricing has been received.
I'm first on the list for a IS350 in Glacier Frost Mica and will alert everyone as soon as it's in and the price.
On a side note my salesmen also said they were having a huge release party mid-October.
Comments
BGDC... I 100% agree. I don't want to have to dish out a fortune to an aftermarket upholsterer to get a custom leather interior just because Lexus couldn't figure adding a few colours to the palette. Is anybody else bored with black, grey, and beige? Think outside the box. I would love a brown or BMW terra.
motown ---> IS 460 may come MY2008. Speculation though.
I believe I can wait patiently for IS "d"s for a while!
On beige: Toyota has discovered that their watered beige (Ivory) can support their exterior palette and vice-versa, so creamy is what you get, guys. Unfortunate, as, like y'all, I'd really like a deep natural leather inside (to compliment a real forest green on the outside!). Won't happen this MY!!
Between black and Ivory, having lived with black for three years, I'd be going light myself.
Could be worse: could be grey only!
I will not get another black - love to see a nice cream or light gray.
The IS 460 name has already been patented and it has been seen zooming around Nurburgring as well. The possibility of this car going into production is likely.
No tongue in cheek I meant the 375i, as in 7.5 liters.
if you want fast shifts - smg/dsg are the fastest.
As far as I know, Lexus has not trademarked the name "IS460" anywhere. What is your source for this?
Maybe they would've had to name it something other than IS, but they could've built the same car and everyone would be like, "wow, good job Lexus."
We have to face the fact that Lexus builds that kind of car, and isn't prepared to make the compromises that BMW is. So I'm going to think of the IS as a C-class beater, and leave it at that. Not that I would want a C-class over a BMW =/.
"Optimists see a glass half full. Pessimists see a glass half empty I see a glass that's twice as big as it needs to be..."
That was a classic George Carlin, Carlisimo, and you're probably right on the money. The car, in all likelihood is deficient in only one way: it has no real deficiencies. It just depends to what yardstick you're measuring!
Well done lad, well done.
My choice hands down, Infinity G35X. Great AWD, nice interior, not quite up to Lexus standards, but much improved this year. Mid 30’s loaded.
Great handling car, great engine, one of the best out there.
Also much more interior room.
And lastly, it's not a first year vehicle. No recalls. Even Lexus and Honda have them.
Anyway that's my opinion, take it for what it's worth.!!!! """
This is part of a review for the G35
The G35 sedan corners better than most front-drive sedans like the Acura TL and it boasts more horsepower than the rear-wheel-drive BMW 330i, Lexus IS 300, and Mercedes-Benz C320. It's also practical, offering more interior space than other cars in the near-luxury class. The G35's daring design, with stacked headlamps, catamaran fenders, and short overhangs, gives both sedan and coupe a unique look we find appealing. The G35 costs less than a comparable BMW, Lexus or Mercedes, but it gives up nothing in handling and performance. The Infiniti G35 comes in two forms: four-door sedan and two-door coupe. Each offers a choice of five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. Infiniti's slick all-wheel-drive system only comes on the G35x AWD sedan with the automatic.
So I'm sure the new IS sounds great, but also for me AWD is a geat option, and not available on IS 350, not now.
Also, first year pricing will be high, cause quite frankly, people don't try to Negotiate with Lexus.
1st year vehicle- Never ever buy first year vehicle!!!! Don't care who it is!!!!!!
Bought brand new 2005 Honda Odyssey Touring, 3 recalls already this year!!!
Not that many people know about that, do they. American vehicles, the whole world knows about their recalls.
Moral of all this; Bang for Buck, Infiniti has excellent vehicles, including the new
M, and with Infinity/Maxima V6 Engine, this is Hall of Fame engine,one of the 10 best
for last 10 years!!!
G35-Tough to beat!!! Bang for Buck with AWD, cheaper than IS + BMW
New Lexus IS 350 and New BMW 330i are great cars, but 1st year vehicles always have bugs!!!
This is also my opionion and not ment to put down anyone, just adding my 2 cents.
Buying the new IS 350 is not a bad choice at all, simply not for me at this time.
They negotiate...
Easy to negotiate an end of life vehicle, while new improved one is coming out.
Lexus/Toyota/Honda are known not to negotiate very much off MSRP.
I’m sure there are always going to exceptions and everyone in this forum of course are
Good negotiators.
Click a DSG..in gear. The delay's so short I can't represent it in a sentence.
I use mine every day on my commute, and without it, brothers, lemme tell ya, that tranny would be absolutely worthless for anything except running errands in rush hour and cruising the freeway for hours.
It ain't quick, and that's a fact.
At the NY auto show in April, the Lexus staff said the 250 would start at 29k, and the 350 just slightly higher. I hope that does mean 32k. You can be sure I will ask that question. And hopefully get an idea on the official release information.
Don't worry about allocating your time that tightly. You'll have PLENTY of time to drive anything you want - as many times as you want.
I went to the Lexus event in Columbus last year. BOY, was it fun! They only have you ARRIVE in blocks of time so as to try to control the flow of people. Having said that, you can drive any vehicle more than once - although you will have to exit the car and give someone else a turn. They have several tracks set up with lots of turns, and several obstacles. But even saying that, it only takes a couple minutes (max) to complete it. Hence, the car drivers turn over pretty quickly.
If I remember, they had 4 "tracks" - one for luxury cars (LS, ES), one for sportier cars (IS, GS) and then 2 SUV tracks - one for "on-road" SUVs (RX) and off-road (GX, LX).
I assume you realize that there will be competitive vehicles in every class so, for example - you'll probably be able to compare that IS with a BMW 3, MB C, Acura TL, Infinit G - you get the idea.
I'm really sorry Columbus didn't get the event this year because it was really a first-class event. Not only will you get to drive all these great vehicles, they'll even FEED you, and give you a parting gift.
Also, all the staff was very professional. No one pushed tried to get you to "like" anything. Occasionally, they'd ask you what you thought of one vehicle or another. After driving an LS, I asked if they had a "euro suspension" version there (or whatever it's called). They didn't have one out at the time. Shortly after, I stopped to eat. When I returned to the drives, one of the associates found me, and told me that they had gotten one out for us to drive. Let me tell you - that suspension made a HUGE difference on the LS. Anyway, my point being - if there's something you want - just ask. If they can accomodate, I'm sure they will.
Have fun. I'm envious!!!
Seems he is very impressed with the IS. Although he does say that the BMW communicates better with the driver. Overall, an honest review I think.
I wonder where anyone would get the idea that they don't negotiate price? Could it be from the sales person?
Good place to get your information.
New Lexus IS 350, you won't get much room, especially the first 6 months.
The older IS wasn't in demand as much, so there is room.
Try negotiating on the RX 400h, then try on the older IS300.
Not very difficult to get great deal on IS. You won’t on the 400h.
And lastly, trading a car into a dealer is a good way to lose money, certainly not make money!!!!!
Chrysler 300C with Hemi you couldn’t touch under MSRP when they came out.
Now with the Charger/Magnum out you can get a good deal on the 300C,
Ford Mustang, and especially the convertible you can’t touch under MSRP, and
That’s even if you can find one the way you like it.
So it general, Hot Models no matter who the Manufacturer is, are tough to negotiate.
Slower models, and soon to be discontinued models, should be close to or even below Dealer invoice!!!!
And never sell your car to dealer unless you first couldn't sell it yourself first.
You lose money every time.
Thanks. I'm going in a week - looking forward to it. Tim
Top gear acceleration is calculated by flooring the car in top gear obviously a car with an automatic transmission is going to down shift.
Was the 330 an automatic? comparing an auto to a manual does not give results that are comparable. It’s probably quicker, top gear acceleration, than a new manual Vette as well.
I don't know which mag uses it, but it's little more than a rag for using such a worthless stat.
After much anticipation and several months wait, I finally got to drive the IS350. It must be driven to be believed! Very, very quick off the line, I fully believe the 5.6 sec Lexus claimed 0-60 times. Handling tight and crisp, was able to take the vehicle to the limits of tires / suspension without a problem. I'm glad the vehicle has VDIM. I did see a few fools run over the red cones; these clowns should stay home next time! I finished the course in about one minute (seemed even quicker). Long lines to drive the IS's, but well worth the wait!
I also got to drive the BMW 330i competitor vehicle, which puts all into perspective. My first time behind the wheel of the BMW, and yes it did impress. It felt a bit larger inside (it's about 0.6 inches wider overall). It also had the Nav and the Lexus was w/o the nav system. Lexus gives you the other cars to drive to make up your own mind. While I was indeed impressed how well the 330i handled the course, the Lexus wins out on sheer speed and pure exhilaration. I had a smile pasted on my face from ear to ear upon leaving the IS350.
So now, I wait until mid October until it arrives at the Lexus dealer. I'm counting the days...!
I am a member of a website dedicated to IS's. www.is300.net
As such, we got the opportunity to preview the new IS at one of the press events.
All the members that attended wrote an article with their impressions of the car.
In the front page of the site you will find three additional articles from other members.
BTW, just curious how you found the article?
“Tog gear acceleration is the most ridiculous stat EVER. Only a freaking moron with a manual would try to accelerate fast in 6th gear at 50 mph.”
Totally agree. Whoever concocted that stat should be lobotomized.
One thing that has caught my attention about the IS is the lack of room particularly in the back seat. Basically it seems like a 2+2+2, the last 2 meaning the back doors. I like my sedans to fit four human beings who can be given a pass for having an extra slice or two. I mean there has to be some significance to the “sedan” aspect of the sport sedan. Me thinks this will come back to bite them. And I hope my head doesn’t hit the roof like it does in the GS, rendering it unbuyable. The 3 seems more family-friendly. However, I don’t like what I’m hearing about early 3-series reliability issues.
There’s always something. Seems like it’s getting harder and harder to choose a car these days. And it doesn’t help when you’re a fussbudget. I think if I wanted a sports car with four seats and two useless back seats I’d panhandle some extra loose change and pay the ransom for an M3.
This is my first taste of lexus event and boy do they know how to throw a party. The food was great, the organization was phenomenal and the cars were great. Brief overview of what to expect if you are going to attend to NY event. Go early, I was registered for 12:45, I went at 11:00 and there was no hassle. I stayed till closing at 6pm! First, bring your license and register at the front desk. After registering they give you a wrist band, if they put it on your left hand = driver, right hand=passenger, so make sure they put it on your left! They then give you your name tag and direct you to a seating area. At this area you get a beautiful woman(the ones that are at the autoshows) to explain the days events and a brief overview of the layout of the complex and the cars you are about to drive. After that they point you to the food and off you are. Inside of the tent there is a GS, RX400h, IS250 and the IS race car. There is also a GS430 Mark levinson demo area where they play a DVD for you and show you the capabilities of the system.
On to the tracks, there are 4 tracks, 1 w/ a RX400H, 1 w/ a GS430,GS300,E500, and a 530i. the next one is with a IS350, IS250 and 330i. The last track is the "full line of lexus" track with the LS430, RX,LX,GX,ES and SC.
The IS350 was an amazing vehicle, I had a chance to drive it twice, back to back against the 330i. Subjectively I love how the car looks, the style the stance and the interior is amazing. The 330i seemed simply spar tan, the interior layout seemed in disarray. To the driving, the track isn't perfect, it being a parking lot in Belmont Park, in NYC, w/ snow, rain which destroys the pavement. There were ruts, imperfections and even a few potholes! On to the IS350, the car just pulls and pulls and pulls, I took the first 3 turns w/o even touching the brakes and I didn't even hear a squeal. The car seems to absorb the imperfections with perfection! On this one 180degree right turn which was littered with bumps, the car didn't even budge. After braking into the turn, I began accelerating out of the turn and it just kept gripping and gripping to no avail.
To the 330i, this car although I do not enjoy some individual's view of its int/ext styling, drives like a dream. Not as quick as the 350, since it was an auto. I'm not sure if there was a manual option there though that would have been interesting. None-the-less, again the acceleration was great and the sound was downright blissful! At WOT with the windows up, A/C off, stereo Off(didn't have the time to learn how to turn it on!!), the car just screams. I was a previous owner of a 328ci, but this car just screams!!! It even chirped on the 1-2 shift. Acceleration was in no way as quick as the 350 though. On the 180degree turn, I had to let off the throttle a bit coming out of the turn. Seems as if the imperfections in the road didn't suit it well to the stiff suspension. It seemed to have a "sidestep" effect on the bumps which was very disheartening and very scary, btw DSC was off or malfunctioning, the yellow ! was continually lit. In my previous 328 that either meant it was busted of off!, unsure if they changed it any.
After 2 back to back drives, I have to say lexus did an amazing job with the 350, int, ext, handling and acceleration.
I had a chance to take many pictures of the show car inside the tent, although it was a 250 the car was amazing, the fit, and finish was amazing. The rear reading lights were just like the GS', nice soft blue LED's. I have to say, the rear seats are very cramped. Having a 4 year old and 1 on the way this will be a big decision and hurdle to overcome. The front aluminum door sills are even lit "LEXUS". Amazing detail! All compartments are oil dampened and materials in the car say nothing less than $50,000+. There was even a rear powered sunshade which I hope is an option on the 350. Even the "oh $hit" handles on the roof pillars were oil dampened! I cannot stress the little details enough. If you are going to the event, you will love it! If you are not registered, go anyway. Walk ins are accepted, just don't tell too many people!! Again this is contingent on space availability so be prepared to be turned away if it's full and if you're not registered.
Have fun.
The lightening inside the tent was pretty dim, so I had to take most of the pictures w/ the flash which causes alot of light reflection, sorry!
Pictures of the event:
Taste of Lexus
A friend of mine is an avid Lexus fan. He owns a 2003 GS430. He LOVES THAT CAR. He sent me the link. After reading all the positive reviews, I think the IS will be a worthy competitor to the BMW 3 series.
Can't wait to see the car
Go Seahawks
Is there an optional sport package/suspension on the IS350?
What's your take on the IS250?
I notice there was no 545i to match up with the E500 and GS430.
There we go again. Toyota will be laughing all the way to the bank if they can steal half of those Automatic 330 buyers. Then come Mid-2007 a Coupe, a Wagon, a Super Sport package with Hybrid or a 460 V8. By mid 2008, IS will outsell the 3 in U.S.
But now, let's sell the IS350 Automatic first.
My best guess is hopefully 42-44 fully loaded?
I do not think there was the optional sport package on the car as I remember it being 17" rims. I think the sport package will bring it to 18". Again this is speculation, as I noticed the 250's and 350's having the same size/style rims. These were pre-production models, and the car in the showroom even had a sign that noted this.
The IS250 was definetly much slower, but no slouch by any means. No match for the 330i. I would definetly like to see a match up between that and the 325i. If I were in the market for a sports sedan, entry level RWD it would be the 350. If I required AWD, the G35X and even the Volvo S60R fully loaded 2005 = 38000 from carsdirect would be my options.
2 "professional" drivers raced the 350 and 330i. It was no match whatsoever. From start to finish the 350 had ATLEAST a 10 car lead.
They also raced the GS300 and the 530i in a single line. I am unsure why they didn't use the same format as the 350 and 330i(side/side), but the GS300 definetly pulled away from the 530i, especially in the twisties. Now I love lexus, but I am definetly would have to see more testing to validate this!
From all accounts, I think the 545 should atleast keep up with the GS430, if not surpass it. The E500 was a beast to drive though!
Best Regards,
It is now the 550.
Did you have a chance to drive the IS250? With a manual?
Thanks,
- Greg
I'm scheduled to go Sat approx 2:45 any suggestions as to how soon I should arrive before the appointment time.
Lexus has been very tightlipped about actual delivery dates and pricing, therefore we probably won't know until the last possible second.
My salesmen said the dealership had spoken with someone and were under the impression that they should have inventory by the end of the month. No firm inventory #'s or pricing has been received.
I'm first on the list for a IS350 in Glacier Frost Mica and will alert everyone as soon as it's in and the price.
On a side note my salesmen also said they were having a huge release party mid-October.