Lexus IS 300

denniswade · February 2001

that's why there are so many different cars for all of us to choose from. I'm sorry you didn't enjoy your drive in the IS -- all I'm saying is that many people disagree with you, including me. And I love Bimmers, Alfas, you name it -- I'm a caraholic thru-and-thru.

mmcbride1 · February 2001

I feel the exact same way you do about the IS. I was disappointed after the test drive on Saturday (and I really wanted to like it). Sure, the manual will help with the acceleration, but it won't help the huge amounts of road noise, or the harsh ride.

It was the road noise that surprised me the most. The other Lexi I have been in/driven (ES, LS) are SOOO much quieter, it's amazing. This one was easily as loud as my 1998 4Runner on the highway, maybe even louder. The Bimmer, by comparison, was much quieter, as well as being faster (I know not really fair comparison-I drove the manual Bimmer) and rode better over choppy roads. And, optioned the way I want it, the Bimmer is $4-5k cheaper. All of the IS's on the lot were loaded and the dealer says that's the way they all come.

Overall, it's a good car, just not what I expected. It's definitely not the car for me.

rapro · February 2001

That's the problem. There are people like you :)hypping the car then people like me and mmcbride1 go and drive it and are disappointed. I wanted to like the car because it might have fit my bill; something good-looking with four doors and a touch of luxury that is as fun to drive as possible and with good built quality thrown in for good measure. But until Toyota puts in a bit of fun in the stew it's not on my list.

I can't assign all the blame for my disappointment to you. Part of it comes from the constant comparison to the bimmer. The IS300 shouldn't be compared to bimmer since it comes on the short side in every measure save the price, but another German car - the Passat. And to be honest the lex as an overall driving experience lags behind even the 1.8T Passat (manual). You mention in another topic that Passat is just a German Camry. In a way you're right except that in general German cars are a class higher than Japanese and two classes higher than American so a Passat as a German equivalent of a Camry is in reality a class higher. About on par with IS300, which is a class up on the real Camry. You may consider this comparison ludicrous as these are quite different cars, but it's not. The IS300 is billed by Toyota as a value-conscious bimmer beater, but so is Passat by VW. Passat is not compared to Accord and Camry, but a lower end 3-series just like the IS300. Passat exceeds all exceptations as a family car, IS300 fulfills only some as a sports sedan so to me they are very evenly matched with slight edge going to the Passat in driving pleasure as well as being better overall package. Lex can make up the ground with the manual stick and all the improvements promised for next year.

mykstker1 · February 2001

I have been a Lexus owner for 9 years now. My most recent is a ES300. But I have decided to add a little more driving excitement to my life.

I have driven the BMW 325 and although I did enjoy the slush box as well as the handling, I could easily see that Lexus gives alot more for the money. I do think the BMW is more refined, but also unreliable in the long run and much more costly to repair.

The reason I am posting today is because although I love the IS300 inside and out, I did notice one thing that disturbed me.

Has anyone who owns a IS300 noticed that when you put the car in Reverse and apply a little gas, that the back end jumps up and down abruptly as if you slipped the clutch on a 5-speed? I noticed this in a Demo w/ several thousand miles on it as well as a brand new one.

If you have an IS300 and noticed this issue, were you able to get it corrected?

I don't know, it might just be me. I have never owned a rear-wheel drive, small tourquie sports Sedan before and don't know if this is common. Although I can not image it would be.

denniswade · February 2001

we will respectfully have to agree to disagree. You obviously like Teutonic style and feel, and that is not only your right, it's probably hard-wired into you (like loving dark beer, sushi or skinny women). I drove the 328 and IS back to back, and while the Bimmer is a delightful car, I like the roughness and immediacy of the IS (it's not the car I'd choose to go to Vegas in, but that's not its purpose in life). I also much prefer the styling, since BMW is starting to get a little tired to me (here in LA you see one in about every five cars, so I'm sure that has a lot to do with it).

So -- enjoy your Passat and I'll enjoy my turbo-Rolla, and neither of us will buy the cars we're arguing about! =O)

rapro · February 2001

I definitely like the German solidity, but above I like things with character, be they cars, skis, or pets. European and American cars in general have character while Japanese don't. Actually even Japanese cars do in an opaque and perverse sense. Their lack of character is their true character. I was hoping IS300 would be an exception. After all what better candidate for a bit of character than a sports sedan. If camry feels like a pot of water boiled a hundred times over so that it looses any taste and smells whatsever that's OK. It's just a family car which doesn't want to stick out from the crowd in the midle class suburbia too much. But then, it's not one of the ten commandaments that a family car should have no character. Look at Volvo, a family mover if there is one, and it has plenty of character.

The Toyota paradox is that it makes lifeless cars that won't die easily.

pita2000 · February 2001

I'm at 1260 miles, the IS has a funny shift between 2nd to 3rd gear? The service advisor said, it is because the car is trying to adapt to the driver. Has anyone experienced this with their lexus?

seattlesheila · February 2001

I just turned 3000K on my IS300 this weekend. When I first had the car, I noticed the strange shifting more. Now it seems to be very smooth. Maybe it really did learn how I drive! Still luvin' that car! If you haven't checked in yet, visit the owners at www.is300.net! (I have learned a lot from the guys there.)

denniswade · February 2001

Re your comment that "I like things with character...European and American cars in general have character while Japanese don't," and "Look at Volvo, a family mover if there is one, and it has plenty of character," all I can say is -- if you prefer the "character" of an old Volvo to an IS300, we live on different worlds. There is simply nothing more to say.

Drive hard and be well!

The Toyota paradox is that it makes lifeless cars that won't die easily.

rapro · February 2001

Sometimes a mean character (not necessarily in a Volvo new or old) is better than no character.

sybele · February 2001

Went to the Auto Expo in Cincinnati this past weekend and had a chance to compare several cars. My wife and I liked the IS 300, the 3-series, and the S60. The exterior of the IS is awesome. The Lexus salesman told us the 2002 will get full leather interiors. Does anybody know if stability control will be offered?

eclipsegs · February 2001

http://www.caranddriver.com/xp/Caranddriver/carnews/carnews_spyshots.xml

denniswade · February 2001

(And please don't go Clinton on me!) =O)

hvan3 · February 2001

I laugh everytime I see an IS300 on the road. It looks like a souped up 1995 Toyota Corolla. LOL People who can't afford a real vehicle (Bimmer), they end up settling for a boy racer "Corolla" with fancy wheels.

Next time I see an IS 300 park next to me at the red light, I'll roll down my window and complement on the "good looking Corolla". LOL Accept no imitation.... Bimmers rule!!

By the way, dollar for dollar, Honda S2000 is far superior then IS300 ( I mean, Corolla). hehe.

denniswade · February 2001

at amusing yourself -- rock on, henry, rock on...!

irap1 · February 2001

The Electronic Throttle Control System used on the IS300 has the potential for delaying "dethrottling" after releasing the accelerator following sudden, heavy acceleration. I have experienced this situation on four occasions. The dealer claims that Lexus' position on this matter is that it is simply "a characteristic of that car" and is not offering any corrective action. The safety implication is clear and Lexus' position is, to say the least, irresponsible. If you experience this, don't remain quiet on the matter. I believe a recall is warranted and it appears that Lexus is going to have to be forced into it.

midnightcowboy · February 2001

> Part of it comes from the constant comparison to >the bimmer. The IS300
>shouldn't be compared to bimmer since it comes on >the short side in
>every measure save the price,

Yes it should be compared to BMW, because that is what I and many others bought instead of a Lexus.

Wake up, be aware of your surroundings and what is happening.

Lexus is in the luxury market with a little sports thrown in.

BMW is in the sports market and are now beginning to throw in luxury.

The manual IS300 will help, but it should have been a 6-speed.

A manual needs to be offered with the GS series.

And the new powder puff SC430 is just that :0

Come on Lexus wake up study your demographics, study what people are buying and what people really want, you can't live on RX300 and ES300 entry sales forever!

midnightcowboy · February 2001

delaying "dethrottling"

Drive by wire is supposed to improve this. It sounds like Lexus has a very serious bug. Hopefully, they will fix it before deaths and class action suits occur

midnightcowboy · February 2001

> Part of it comes from the constant comparison to >the bimmer. The IS300
>shouldn't be compared to bimmer since it comes on >the short side in
>every measure save the price,

Yes it should be compared to BMW, because that is what I and many others bought instead of a Lexus.

Wake up, be aware of your surroundings and what is happening.

Lexus is in the luxury market with a little sports thrown in.

BMW is in the sports market and are now beginning to throw in luxury.

The manual IS300 will help, but it should have been a 6-speed.

A manual needs to be offered with the GS series.

And the new powder puff SC430 is just that :0

Come on Lexus wake up study your demographics, study what people are buying and what people really want, you can't live on RX300 and ES300 entry sales forever!

seattlesheila · February 2001

Don't know what you mean by "stability control", but the 2002 model will have a bit tighter suspension than the 2001 has...and full leather interior. Navigation will be an option. It will have 18" wheels too.

seattlesheila · February 2001

Frankly, I don't care about the Bimmers. Couldn't afford all the options I wanted on one, so I didn't even look at one. I had to stretch for the IS300 and I'm very happy with it. I am sure glad they make cars in every shape, size and price range so everyone can have something they like!

pita2000 · February 2001

thanks, I think you are right, if it went away when you pass 3000 miles then, I should not worry. For that BMW owner, I hope you just bought the name for couple thousand dollars extra and yet I own a BMW in the past, once it gets into accident the glory days ends by going to the dealer for some type of malfunction. May be they fixed that annoying problem, but you have to remember who has the better reliability?

outpost100 · February 2001

Thank you Mr. (former) President.

We will now move on from the discussion of "character". Just proves what a smoke screen that statement is.

sybele · February 2001

Hi seattlesheila, thanks for your response. If you look at the features of the IS on Edmunds New Cars, they list stability control, which really is VSC. By the way, according to IS300.net, VSC will be offered as an option on next years model. Thanks again.

Has anybody installed a child safety seat? Appreciate the feedback.

rapro · February 2001

Dennis, Clinton is an interesting case. He is definitely a "character", but doesn't have "character" as far as I am concerned.

How about this definition? I know it when I "see" it. Ain't seen it in IS300 or to be exact, I can see it (looks interesting and good to me) I just can't feel it.

rapro · February 2001

You can compare IS300 to a scooter if you want I don't care. My point is that since the IS300 is inferior in almost every imaginable category to a bimmer the comparison is not all that interesting. It's like beating up on the smaller kids. That's why I proposed a fairer comparison to a Passat since both are billed as poor-man bmws. This comparison is a lot more even and interesting.

BMW is running away from the sports market as fast as it can. "A BMW truck" isn't that an oxymoron? Nevermind how their SUVs drive, just the image of a BMW truck makes me wonder. Perhaps one day soon they wake up and realize the error of their ways.

I don't think the difference in sportiness between the two is all that great. I just think that bimmer is somewhat better in every category othen than price so that in the end it adds up to a more substantial difference over all. If the IS300 can match the bimmer in the sporty feeling that would be enough for me. The new sportier version may very well do so. We'll see.

seattlesheila · February 2001

Ah, VSC...OK, heard of that. The guys were talking about it over on is300.net.

pita2000 · February 2001

I was wondering if I should switch to synthetic and should I do it before 5000 miles?

raylaubu · February 2001

I went to the Lexus dealer in Boston,MA. The dealer was quick to offer me big discount on IS300. He said Lexus is trying to get more IS300 on the road so more people can see them and get more popular like BMW someday. The loaded msrp was mid 34000...he said he would take off about 2 to 3 thousand with promotion this two weeks of president's day.

I am wondering if how low these Lexus dealer can go? I think Lexus must be giving them a huge dealer incentive, or else he won't have offer such a big discount right away (even before I talk to him about price)

If anyone can tell me how much dealer incentive they are getting or what price they got their IS300 would be great....Thank you

hvan3 · February 2001

I heard IS 300 is not selling well. It's below projection. Maybe that is why they are desperate to move them out at discount?

laurasdada · February 2001

I have not seen many IS300's. I've visited my local Lexus dealer a few times and they do seem to have a healthy supply in their warehouse (the same building hosts a pet store!) The invoice price/msrp difference is rather large, so they can discount and still make a profit.
I have not driven the car, but I do like the exterior styling. Interior is OK, but some of the materials do appear more Corolla then Lexus. It's a tough segment, the $30-$35k range. I look forward to a test drive someday.

seattlesheila · February 2001

There are reports of some great deals in certain areas of the country. The dealer "holdback" is about $600, so they'll make that much even if they sell the car to you at invoice. Also, the 2002 model is due out this summer and they have to get rid of the 2001s. I'd say about 31.5 to 32K is fair, (you're gonna enjoy that Lexus service) but you may do better, depending upon what's on the lot. Make 'em throw in the trunk mat and cargo net (about $100 worth, retail) and GET THE LSD!

raylaubu · February 2001

I am also thinking about C240, which do you guys think is better?

denniswade · February 2001

and see. If the Mercedes driving experience appeals to you, buy it -- if, like me, you feel that it is rather aloof and uninvolving, buy the IS or the BMW.

menace2u · February 2001

raylaubu - I agree with seattlesheila and others - I drove the IS300, had the salesman buy me a coke, and got a quote for a fully loaded (all options) 2001 IS300 for $32K flat (including TTL but excludes local tax) - all in about 10 minutes sans haggling. My guess is I could get the car for somewhere around $31K to $31.5K with a little effort or by waiting until they need to close business at the end of a month or quarter. I'm checking into any special promos and will let you know if I uncover anything.
I've driven the IS300, GS300, BMW 325i and 330i, MB 240, and used 1998 M3 and 540i. Comparisons are difficult but unavoidable. I don't see the incremental value on a new 3-series that costs $5-$12K over the IS300 though they are great cars. The pervasive factor is also an issue as 3 out of every 20 cars I see are BMWs and the commonality reduces the appeal (atleast for me). The used M3 was amazing and reminded me of how much I enjoyed driving a great car with a manual transmission but the ride was punishing to some extent over the rough roads and pot-holed streets I frequent in my daily endeavors. A great track car but I'm not sure I want to sacrifice daily comfort for the occasional time I can truly benfit from all the M3 has to offer. The used 540i was probably the most promising of all as it mixed awesome performance and handling with a ride that was comfortable but not too soft like the Lexus GS line and MBs. The MB 240 would be lowest on my list as it was more luxury than I would want at the sacrifice of significantly less sport. Overall, it always comes down to money. If I decide to drop $40K, I'll probably go with the used 540i. If I opt for the practical route, its the IS300 which I feels spans the sport/luxury divide best (though it is not best in either category) at a reasonable price.
I've been looking for over 1 year and thought I'd finally put my thoughts on paper to hear what the masses have to say. Fire at will.........

raylaubu · February 2001

Thank you for your inputs. I think they are very well put.

But I am not too sure about getting a used car (since getting it from dealer mean I won't save much compare to a new one; and getting it from ads will be risker).

I like the IS300 but my girlfriend really love the new C class looks and luxary. So I am still trying to weight things. It also depends how much discount I can get for those C class. IS300 is really a great deal with the amount of discount they are willing to give.

Anyway, I would like to hear more from you guys

Thank you

ezaircon4jc · February 2001

Have either of you considered the Lincoln LS? The V6 can be had with a manual 5-spd.

galvang · February 2001

Try to find additional info on the new 2002 Crossport. Lexus says it will compete with the Audi A4 avant. If this is the case will it have a AWD model? If not, then this wagon will be just another wagon like a Ford tourus wagon. IF Lexus intends to market this vehicle to the outdoor types Skiers, Bikers, and hikers it need to offer an AWD version. Lexus I hope you are listening. Any feedback is appreciated.

denniswade · February 2001

is a nicely styled car with much better than average perforamnce and handling, but it feels ponderous to me. The detailing on the front quarter panels is just gorgeous, though, and with the V8 it's pretty spunky. Truly the best effort so far by an American car-maker. (I had a MkVII LSC, by the way, and absolutely loved it -- it was so far superior to the BMW 5-series at the time in terms of combining luxury and performance it wasn't even funny.)

seattlesheila · February 2001

The crash test reports on the IS300 are just coming out. The side impact rating is five stars...the best. Front impact should be out some time during March. Check that against your other considerations.

longhorn8 · March 2001

Hi all... I just got a Lexus IS 300, and I feel that I can comment adequately and fairly on the competition. I first started out in love with the CL Type-S... I test drove, and it is a very solid car... especially with Nav system... however, after driving a BMW 325, I realized that the Bimmer was a better all around car for the price... mainly because of the unbelievably smooth handling.... even so, I can understand why people might prefer the type S, it is very sharp. My sister owns a new 325 and I was on the verge of buying one, but the price was around 35,000, and finding a lower priced model (w/sports package) was impossible. So, the BMW became out of the question. After looking around, we finally pulled into the Lexus lot, perhaps to find a nice pre-owned Lexus... this was the first time I saw the IS 300. After sitting in the show room model, I fell in love with the interior... it was a truly unique car... and the inside is really neat... especially for someone my age (23). After test driving the car, I found that the Lexus was right on par with the Bimmer's handling... it made for an unbelievably smooth ride and was a bit faster than the 325.... Since it was a younger car, and quite nice, I was able to purchase the demo model for 30,000... a great price. I had to stretch to purchase this car, but it has been worth it. Everytime I drive this car, I am amazed. It is more fun to drive than the 325... perhaps because it is a younger person's car. I simply love this car. The BMW 325 is probably a bit nicer in some areas, but it is a comprable car (which is the point of my email)... if you can't afford the 325 at $35-$37,000... the the IS 300 is a great car at $32-35,000. Also, if you can find a demonstrator on the lot, you should be able to get it for around $30-31,000. You will be well served to have a 325 or an IS 300 (or even perhaps a CL type S with nav system), but I do believe the IS 300 is a very attractive buy since it is slightly better priced the 325. Again, it is a matter of what you can afford, and what your preferences are... the handling between the two vehicles is second to none. Lexus did an unbelievable job in making this car (it is not a old-man's lexus) and what a great position to be in! If you are choosing between a IS 300 and a BMW... you can't go wrong! I would look at your age though... as a young man, the lexus is a bit more versitile and sportier feeling... whereas my sister's 325 feels more posh and sophisticated.... it depends on what sort of car you want. A fun high quality sporty car... or a slightly less fun more well groomed sporty car.... Again, a matter of personal preference.

All this talk about driving has made me wanna drive! I'm gonna go for a spin now!

dotanuki · March 2001

I just got this email today regarding a special lease deal Lexus is running in March for the IS300. The dealership this is from handles the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware area, but the wording makes it sound like it is a national program...

Dear Anthony,

We are pleased to forward a Special Lease Program from Lexus. Lexus is offering a lease special on the IS300. It is based on 39 months at 12000 miles per year. The base payment is 399.06 plus your tax, with 1075 cash or trade in as your down payment.

We have a limited amount of IS300s available, and the program runs thru April 2nd. Call or email me to discuss the details. We look forward to doing business with you and are extremely excited about this program.

The 39 month lease is based on approval from our primary lending source. Tax, tags and fees are additional. Excludes all previous programs.

Regards,
Rickey

RickeyShore
Internet Sales Associate
wilkie2@aether.ispserver.blackberry.net
800-966-9455
Wilkie Lexus

Hopefully some of you might find this useful.

Later...

Tony

bearbear1 · March 2001

My two cents. I have owned four BMWs, my present one being a '00 528ia, my last three were 3 series. All were excellent cars. But after the warranty goes they are not to be trusted. The upkeep and maintenance on them are just too expensive. Today I looked at the IS300 sedan and drove one. I thought it was very well- put-together. The pick-up was excellent and the quality also excellent. I was thinking about getting an Audi Avant 2.8 or S but have decided to go for the IS300 wagon this fall. Lexus's have great reliability and quality service and that was a large part of my decision. Not to mention the significant difference in price. ID

is300owner · March 2001

I've just logged on to this chat room for the first time and only had a chance to quickly read through some of the postings, so forgive me if this has been dealt with before.
We've had an IS 300 for a couple of months now and found that we've gotten mediocre gas mileage, i.e., less than 15 miles a gallon. The dealer tells us that this is what we should expect from a "performance" car. We've also found that the car has real trouble in snow (and a Nor'easter is just hours away). What have others experienced?

dogofthegods · March 2001

I am getting around 20 miles to the gallon. and I have 1500 miles on the car. I have not been pushing the car very hard yet as it is new.

denniswade · March 2001

If you're only driving the car very short distances in really cold weather, the car is running rich all the time, which would partially explain it -- and if you're flooring the throttle every time you take off, that will use a lot of extra gas too. But if the dealer just tells you it's because it's a "performance car", that's not very Lexus-like, and I'd be talking to the customer representative.

jedonnab · March 2001

Hello all - I am planning on getting a new car within two months. I have test drove a Toyota Solar SEE V6, and was given a price of $25,668 include tax, and license. I haven't test drove the IS300 yet, but I've seen it. I hear nexus is running a special lease for the Month of March. I know that Toyota is great when it comes to reliability and holding value. I hear the same for nexus. Any suggestions? I plan to test drive the nexus within the next week. I hear that you can get a IS300 for around $31K, if this is the case I think that's good. I really can't afford anything higher than that.

yamato · March 2001

hi, is there anyone here from IS300.net? Can someone tell me if the server is down or what, I can't get in for the 3rd day now.

thanks

yamato · March 2001

Personally I think both cars are great. The main decide factor is the RWD for me. I have a ES300 which drives great (same engine and platform as solara), but I still want to drive a RWD car for some fun driving (ie IS300

). Yes, Is300 is more expensive, but I think the engine is a bit better than the v6 in solara. Toyota and Lexus is the same company, so the reliability should be similar but Lexus do have a better customer service. you will love the car.

isaari · March 2001

It's been down for some time now. SeattleShelia, you know anything?

Lexus IS 300

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