Turkoman

I went through the same process when I was considering the IS in terms of power. I decided to get the 250 over the 350. First, even though it is anemic on paper, it really felt peppy enough to me. I also felt that the 250 AWD outhandled the 350 in tight windy roads. Opinions are opinions though so you will have to judge the car yourself. What I am saying is that if it feels good to you, don't let the specs on paper get to you.

Going back to the resale issue, I don't think you would have any trouble selling a 250 even if a larger engine version comes out. My guess is this model will be a classic icon like the BMW 3-series. Also, many people who buy cars don't consider hp as the primary factor. My 1999 RX 300 is underpowered and slow by today's standards. Just look at the RX 350 and the 400h. I sold it within an hour after posting the ad on the net for the TMV price for private sellers that I confirmed from 3 sources. Obviously the fact that the 300 engine is gone now in the RX did not hurt it. It also won't in the IS.

Bichon

If you think that the IS250 is all about horsepower per dollar, you don't understand their target market. The 204 HP IS250 is in the same class as the 215 HP BMW 325 and the 200 HP Audi A4 2.0T.

If you are looking for horsepower, the IS350 has 306, the highest in its class. Since you aren't looking for a stick or AWD, it should fit the bill perfectly.

diablo1

Strange that you are saying "All Lexus cars are underpowered" when you are in an IS forum and the IS 350 in fact has the most power in its class...

Big Andy

Perhaps you could explain that comment because looking at the the Lexus range I sure as hell can't understand it. For what it's worth the IS250 is a brand new engine and will be available for the lifecycle of this generation IS i.e until 2010.

Cabby

Not sure why everyone is so offended. If I wanted straight HP, I can sure as hell get it cheaper elsewhere. The same reason Nike shoes are more expensive then Keds. What's not to understand? It's the same reason we are all buying the car that says Lexus on the back instead of Toyota. Same car, higher price tag.

phish2112

I have the 250 and will be the first to admit I wish it had more power. Sometimes I feel like I wish I was Fred Flinstone so I could stick my feet out and run to help it move faster.

BUT, I opted for the 250 over the 350 because of the awd, and I am willing to bet most awd owners went with the 250 because of the awd option. In snowy climates we don't have much choice. The 350 is not much more $$ than the awd (what's a couple grand more when you're shelling out $40k anyway), and the base 250 is attractive due to its lower sticker price compared to other luxury sport sedans.

My point is each model has their selling factors. If they offered a 350awd, disregarding price, I bet there'd be more of those on the road than a 250awd.

kenne74

I agree i was very close on buying a 250 because of the awd but once i drove the 350 it was all over. I figure if a good set of snow tires can get me where i want to go then i'll be fine. But if they can't then i can always drive my 400h or just stay home.

LexFather

I think you should change your tone bub.
1. Lexus are not just Toyotas with a badge. If you think that much, please SEARCH. I in particular have covered that topic many times.
2. From my insiders, there is no IS 300 coming. The GS 300 engine will be defunt when it becomes the 350.
3. The IS 250 "underpowered" is selling fine. And if you knew ANYTHING about sales, you would know the 184hp BMW 525 sells around 1200-1500 copies a MONTH, costing MORE than the IS 350.
4. That is just ANOTHER example (IS 250/ BMW 525) that some people don't have PEAK horsepower as their PRIMARY reason for purchase.

I had a IS 250 loaner and don't let the 204 hp rating fool you. Its VERY peppy and IMO, no where near underpowered. Of course driving a 350 to a 250 will make it seem underpowered. Compared to most cars, it is not.

Of course Camrys, Accord, Altimas, etc are more powerful and if you like em, go for it.

Big Andy

Round of applause for that man!

Cabby

Excellent points, thank you.

I didnt think my tone needed reprimanding, but you're the boss

Lenscap

Your point is right on, although the 525 has 215hp. It starts at $43,500.

4TehNguyen

iTrader: (1)

biggest slug ever