Hey guys,

Completley new to this forum. I actually don't own a Lexus. Not yet. Maybe never? But I've become a member to acquire more knowledge of these people cars which intrigue me quit a bit. Which makes me a good canidate for one.

I'm currently a 21 yr old dental hygiene student in Rochester MN, and plan attending school elsewhere to become a Dentist.

My ? is, what do you guys think of the IS3 V.S. the GS3 V.S. a 3 series bimmer. I know this is a GS forum, so I expect some suttle favoritism to the GS series models. But honestly.

I like all 3, and would just like some feedback.

 

Mike,

First and foremost, welcome to the forum! As for comparisons, I believe you should further discriminate your comparison to IS300 VS 330i and the GS300 VS 530i.

I do not have too much experience on the 330i nor the 530i but have had some experience with 328i and 528i. With the introduction of the new engine I have to do some research and catch-up work. My best friend acquired a X5 3.0 but I don't think that is a fair comparison to the GS except the fact the X5 is a raised 5-series sedan w/ four wheel drive. However with trim and packaging and pricing, BMW cannot beat Lexus in these aspect. Then again I've heard industry reports the new 5-series should be rolling in any minute now.

Good luck on your pursuit.

 

Mike,

for your 3 possible choices, it all comes down to the following factors:

1.price: here are the ~ market price(not msrp)

is300 ~$31500+fees
gs300 w/premium pkg ~$38500+fees
330i ~$35-39k+fees

2.size: gs300 is much larger and comfy, do you prefer/like the room in your ride? or would you prefer smaller cars for its nimble handling?

3.appearance:its a personal taste

4.interior:either lexus model has MUCH better interio materials and design, imo

5.reliablity: got lexus? this is a no brainer.

conclusion: if you like /prefer smaller car, the IS is the best value for your hard earn money. actually i like the IS as much as the GS, but i prefer more room in my ride, especially in LA traffic.

hey, i liked the bmw(owned one before). but they failed my expectation test-i prefer the car that i spend over $45k to be reliable, and take me places.

once a lex owner, always a lex owner.

if you have the extra $$, and like more room, get the GS3, and add on a little more suspension and steering goodies to improve its handling. consider what you pay for the size, elegance, it is also a bargain.