roushracin

New to the boards and am going to look at an IS250 AWD and an ES350 on Friday. I like them both. However, I am leaning towards the IS just because it's sportier. On the other hand, the IS is a little smaller. I am only 5'7" and my wife's 5'2 so legroom in the IS isn't a problem. We have no children..yet. We are planning on having one sometime late next year. Just wanted to hear some opinions on what the pros and cons are on each one.

whoster

If you have kids you're going to want another car anyways.

Get the IS and enjoy it!

PetesLS400

I really like the new ES's, the only thing I dont like about them is that theyre FWD. Between the 2 I wouldnt even consider the IS unless its a 350. The 250 is loud and slow.

Och

iTrader: (3)

I'd get an IS.... The only thing I like about the ES better is that its faster, other than that its a souped up Camry and not even a real Lexus. The IS is just better built and more solid.

roushracin

I'm not too concerned with horsepower. I don't want the IS350 because it is RWD and the winters here in Missouri can get pretty nasty which is why I would want the 250 AWD. My wife has an '08 Camry SE V6 and I love it but I would rather go w/the IS because we don't need 2 "Camry's" if you know what I mean.

memasterac

If you accept the IS250 has less horsepower, it'll be a better buy for your situation.

mmarshall

The new ES350, IMO, is poorly done in several ways. Go with the IS250 AWD. If if it doesn't have enough power for you (AWD does put a drag on the engine) then check out the AWD Subaru Legacy GT with its turbo. But keep in mind that the stock tires on the IS250 AWD are summer high-performance tires that may not be good in snow. The Legacy GT, I believe, has high-perfomance all-seasons.

LexBob2

Good luck with your decision. I looked at both the IS250 and ES350, and went with the ES as it met our needs better than the IS. IMO, you can't go wrong with either. They're both good cars that obviously appeal to different buyers. That's why they make 'em both and both sell well.

DASHOCKER

iTrader: (2)

Living here in the North East, I know all to well what it is like driving during the winter season. Nothing beats the advantage of AWD in bad weather. Go for the IS250.. Don't limit yourself though.. Heck, the Infiniti G35x in the same price range as the IS250. 306hp v 220hp(?) There are also great SUV's available in the same price bracket. Rav4V6L, Highlander, InfinitiEX35 just to name a few. Good luck.

Lexus 1

Had my ES for just about 8 months. LOVE IT LOVE IT. It's a perfect combination of classy style, plush ride and good useable space.

Och

iTrader: (3)

How good are the AWD systems on these small sports sedands (IS awd, g35x, 328x, etc)?

I know Acuras SH-AWD system is great, and so are generally Audi and Subaru systems, but are Lexus, BMW and Infiniti systems effective at all? Because I remember when checking out a past gen G35 a few years ago, I was insisting on G35x, but the salesman was talking me out of it saying that the AWD system wasnt effective at all.

PetesLS400

Cause youve extensively driven both??


Everytime I get a IS as a loaner I tell them I rather have something else. The car is cramped and the engine runs loud, not at all up to Lexus standards.

mmarshall

Drive an ES330 and see if you still think the 350's ride is plush. Lexus dumped the smoother-riding suspension and tires of the 330 for a firmer feel and handling on the 350. If you like the 350's ride, fine. I think it's a step down from the 330's.

Och

iTrader: (3)

On my GS I got rid of the 235/45/17 rims/tires, and bought a set of 225/60/16 wheels from LS430. I have a newfound love for my GS.

LexBob2

This is obviously a very subjective topic and opinions will vary from person to person. However, I don't recall ever seeing the word firm used to describe the ride quality of the ES.

I used to own a previous gen Avalon XLS which was very similar to the previous gen ES. Overall I liked the car but the ride, as well as the handling and steering were atrocious. In road conditions other than a straight line, the car was all over the road. IMO the new ES is night and day better, while certainly no sports sedan, it is a very comfortable/secure car. But like I said it's subjective and to each his or her own.