Thinking about purchasing an '06 up GS350 or IS350
10-31-12, 05:01 PM
#1
Thinking about purchasing an '06 up GS350 or IS350
I'm almost ready to get a newer car. I've read of some issues with the '06 GS300 with piston rings issues but haven't read much about the IS. Are there any common known issues/bugs with the GS3 or IS? I'm getting a little tired of heavily modified cars, so my plans would only be for a set of wheels, slightly lowered, and a sound quality stereo system. Is the navigation/stereo system heavily tied into other functions of the car? I'm interested in re-using my current stereo unit that has navigation. Thanks.
10-31-12, 09:52 PM
#2
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I just went from an IS350 to the GS350 (totaled the IS 
). The IS was issue free besides the typical recalls that are covered by Lexus. As far as the Nav goes, yes, everything is tied into it. There are almost zero aftermarket options if you get one with Nav. Even non-Nav units have limited options. This applies to both the IS and the GS. If you can find one with the Mark Levinson option, you won't be disappointed (assuming you're not looking for a ton of bass). You can always add an aftermarket amp and sub.
). The IS was issue free besides the typical recalls that are covered by Lexus. As far as the Nav goes, yes, everything is tied into it. There are almost zero aftermarket options if you get one with Nav. Even non-Nav units have limited options. This applies to both the IS and the GS. If you can find one with the Mark Levinson option, you won't be disappointed (assuming you're not looking for a ton of bass). You can always add an aftermarket amp and sub.
11-01-12, 06:01 AM
#3
Drive both. The GS is a Grand Touring vehicle, the IS is more of a Sport Touring vehicle.
If you are going to lower the car, do NOT get an AWD GS or AWD IS. You can get on lexusdrivers.com and run the vin to see all of the Lexus service records if serviced at the dealership.
My GS300 AWD has 87k miles and I have not had a single problem with it, with the exception of the driver's seat cushion and back rest cushion being a bit flaccid and unsupportive. This seems to be common as the seats are soft/comfy, but not super durable. And its not the leather. The seat leather is fantastic, its just what is underneath.
I had my GS tested for the piston ring problem, and (knocks on wood) it had absolutely no signs of the problem. If you drive the car up to temp and get deep into the throttle once in a while, I understand (with regular maintenance) the issue is not nearly as prevalent.
My advice is to drive both. I'm a tall guy and simply cannot fit comfortably in the IS if I were to have 3 other adults in the car. It is a small car. The GS is a step up in terms of comfort and luxury. The IS is, in my opinion, more fun to drive though.
If you don't need the space, and lean towards the sporty handling side, go IS. If you prefer a bit more luxury and could use the space, go GS.
Good luck man!
If you are going to lower the car, do NOT get an AWD GS or AWD IS. You can get on lexusdrivers.com and run the vin to see all of the Lexus service records if serviced at the dealership.
My GS300 AWD has 87k miles and I have not had a single problem with it, with the exception of the driver's seat cushion and back rest cushion being a bit flaccid and unsupportive. This seems to be common as the seats are soft/comfy, but not super durable. And its not the leather. The seat leather is fantastic, its just what is underneath.
I had my GS tested for the piston ring problem, and (knocks on wood) it had absolutely no signs of the problem. If you drive the car up to temp and get deep into the throttle once in a while, I understand (with regular maintenance) the issue is not nearly as prevalent.
My advice is to drive both. I'm a tall guy and simply cannot fit comfortably in the IS if I were to have 3 other adults in the car. It is a small car. The GS is a step up in terms of comfort and luxury. The IS is, in my opinion, more fun to drive though.
If you don't need the space, and lean towards the sporty handling side, go IS. If you prefer a bit more luxury and could use the space, go GS.
Good luck man!
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11-10-12, 03:08 AM
#10
Size is the biggest factor here. I love the IS, but when I had one for a loaner I couldn't get over how small it was inside compared to my GS. But both are great cars inside and out. The IS was very fun to drive and nimble. My GS with F Sport sway bars drives like a champ too, though.
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