Runt888

Hi guys, first post here. I've been lurking around for the last couple of months. I've been trying to decide between the IS 250 AWD and the 06 Acura TSX. Two days ago I finally went to test drive it. All I can say is, wow. I thought the IS looked pretty good from the pictures, but seeing it in person is a whole different thing. I literally stood staring at the IS in the showroom for a good 20 minutes. I like the looks of the TSX, but there's no real comparison.

I was concerned at some of the posts here about the speed of the AWD model, but after driving it I didn't think it was an issue. It's a little slow off the line (especially compared to the 350, which luckily I drove after the 250), but once you get to 15 or 20 MPH, it really picks up. Definately faster than my current car (99 Subaru 2.5 RS).

Anyway, on to the questions. I'm really only interested in the Navigation and ML options (it was kind if drizzling during my test drive, and the rain sensing wipers were really cool, but I can't see spending almost 2 grand or so more to get the luxury package). I just saw that CarsDirect has Navigation and ML available as separate options. Are those prices correct? Why is it cheaper to get them individually than to get the package that has them both?

Also, I've never bought a lexus before. If you do a custom order, can you pick and choose options from the package? For example, could I order just the rain sensing wipers and power telescoping steering wheel without getting the entire luxury package? For one thing, I really don't want the wood trim.

Last question, what kind of OTD prices have people been getting on their AWD IS's? I'm hoping to stay under $40,000 OTD, if possible.

Thanks for any answers to these questions!

Kelly

Edit: I just found the individual pricing options on the Lexus website (doesn't show up under the build your car thing...). It seems to agree with CarsDirect, except it doesn't list ML as an individual option. Anyone know about this?

Also, completely unrelated...before the test drive I asked the sales guy what happens if the battery dies and the doors won't unlock. He showed me the little hidden key, but we couldn't figure out where the key hole was. Tried to put it in the little slot under the handle, but it wouldn't fit. Can anyone clarify this mystery?

flipside909

ML and Nav are bundled together. The $500 difference you saw by selecting the options seperately was something that was overlooked.

Welcome to CL!

flipside909

BTW, the key is to unlock the trunk from valet mode.

Runt888

Thanks for the welcome and the replies!

So what happens if the battery dies?

isdsms

There is a piece of plastic that snaps off at the handle. Once removed, you hace access to the key slot.

Rockville

the driver's door. There is a little notch under the right end of the door handle that you need to pry up on until the cap levers off. I'm not crazy about it because it requires a little expertise to fit it back on snugly after you use it but it is your only way in. Flip is correct that you can enter the trunk with the metal key also. The Smart key is effortless otherwise. BTW if the Smart Key fob battery is low then you will need to place it right next to the Start button so that it will give you the green light.

Rock

Runt888

Thanks for the responses guys. I'll have to look for that next time I go testdrive.

Does anyone know the answers to my other questions? Basically, can you pick and choose options from the packages without getting the entire package, and has anyone gotten a decently equiped IS250 AWD with Navi and ML for under $40000 OTD?

Thanks a lot!

Kelly

MR LEX

Decently equipped w/ML and Navi sounds like fully loaded to me

Lex