Cobra611

Hello everyone. I just signed up to this forum, as I'm seriously considering purchasing my first Lexus. I've been an Acura owner (Integra, CL Type S, TSX) over the years and have been very satisfied with them. Just recently, I started searching for a used car, preferably an AWD model for use here in upstate NY. I had my sights set on a '10 TL SH AWD, but test drove an '09 IS250 AWD a few weeks ago and came away very impressed. But, I've narrowed down my choices to both a '10 IS & TL AWD models and I really don't think I can make a bad decision. But, honestly I'm leaning toward the Lexus. I suppose I have many questions, but I'll start with just one for now. The '10 IS 250 I was looking at had a number of very cool options, such as the headlight washers, power tilt/telescope steering wheel and power rear window sun shade. But, it didn't have the Mark Levinson premium stereo, which has me really bummed out. Is that a must have item or is the stock stereo enough? Someone said you can watch DVD's with the ML system...is that true? Anyway, thanks for listening and I would really appreciate any comments, suggestions or any insight about the IS 250 that I'm just learning about.

Thanks!

dackp143

iTrader: (3)

Man, once you start to drive the Lexus you will feel a type of comfort and warmth that is hard to beat. I love both Acura and Lexus but there is something about the Luxury and performance of a Lexus that makes you feel cozy and sporty at the same time.

I have the ML (Mark Levinson) in my IS350 and YES, it will play DVD's. The sound system is incredible. If it were me, I would tell the dealer you want the ML or if its a private seller, keep looking. I mean, I don't really blare my music but when I decide to, there is nothing like driving down the highway at 90mph with the windows down and still being able to turn your music down because it is to loud

Cobra611

Thanks for your input, Dack! It's a CPO vehicle, so would there be a possibility of having the dealer swap out the OEM for the ML?

anthrax144

Zero. =(

It's more complicated then just swapping out the head unit, unfortunately. Expand your search radius. It may be worth driving to another state to pick one up. I have ML in mine so I can't comment about a stock stereo in the IS but I can tell you, the ML is outstanding.

As a side note, '11 models now have an AWD 350. The main complaint on the 250's is how slow they are. Test drive it first and make sure you're ok with the lower power (~205hp vs. ~305hp.) You may be better off getting a RWD 350 and a good set of snow tires for the winters.

NorCalIS

iTrader: (5)

I have the stock system rather than the mark levinson. I have heard both and ended up with the stock because of the price mostly. The mark levinson sounds great but the stock is pioneer which isn't to shabby itself. I personally don't roll down the windows past 80mph as the weather isn't usually that nice, but at 70mph with em down I can hear the pioneer crystal clear! As for the acura vs. Lexus debate I went down the same road when choosing my 250 a month ago. I went with the Lexus purely on how smooth, quiet, and comfortable the 250 was, not to say TL's aren't, but there's something about the Lexus comfort that gets ya. Good luck!

Cobra611

Thank you, I appreciate all the feedback. The salesman at the Lexus dealer told me that in the 12 years he's been with them, he's never seen an IS come through with the ML system. And in my search through AutoTrader.com, there are NONE locally and only about 6 nationwide. I definitely want to drive both the TL and IS one more time, before I make a decision. Of course price will be a big factor. I have to admit, I'm getting excited about becoming a potential Lexus owner!!!

Joeb427

iTrader: (1)

The '10 TL SH AWD is a great car but tough to look at.
Not just my feelings but auto magazine and auto reviewers.
I realize looks of a vehicle are subjective but the majority feel the TL and Acura designers have toned the ugliness on the '12 model.

dackp143

iTrader: (3)

I mean I would have to say that as far as comfort, they are similar... but look at this:





Just buy body style, the IS is definitely sportier. If you like the boxy look of the TL, then go for it! I honestly don't think you can go wrong. TEST DRIVE TEST DRIVE TEST DRIVE!

Here is one guys thoughts: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...-acura-tl.html

I like what one guy said: "IMO, the IS is a younger man's car, where the TL appeals to an older crowd." --- mind you, I'm almost 30 myself, STILL YOUNG!

NathanH

To be honest with, I own/drove the is350 for 4 years, it's an okay car, smooth, but not exciting driving vehicle. Tons of recalls and little problem got it fixed before warranty.

However, recently navigation is broken and it cost $3000.

Do your research, I just want to share this info because I am frustrated now.

felixdang

I looked at both when I was shopping in febuary.. I narrowed it downto both cars too.. To be honest I couldn't justify getting the TL just because of the ugly styling it just turned me off.. ( But the redesign 2012 was a whole different story) I would consider the TL..

So I made the jump and bought the 2011 is 350awd and love every min the car

If ur gonna get the TL then I suggest the 2012, or not get the Lexus if you don't mine the underpower..

Good luck be patient and happy shopping

I wanted an AWD too cause I live in MI and winters are really bad here.. But didn't like the power of the 250 after test driving the

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

TLs are still FWD aren't they?

Cobra611

Yes, you can still get a TL with FWD. Honestly, I'm in the minority, but I do prefer the look of the '09-'11 TL, and not so much the 2012 touch up. Some things have taken place with me in the last 72 hours, so I'm gonna have to scrap the idea of getting a CPO 2010 IS 250. Just as I was making progress on educating myself with the '10, I now have to research the '07-'09 models. Somewhere in this form, at least I remember anyway, that somebody posted the actually changes to the car from model year to model year but unfortunately I can't find it now. Regardless, after being on this forum for a week or two, I am learning and really liking the Lexus a lot more than the TL. Each have their benefits, but would like to be a Lexus owner at this point.

dackp143

iTrader: (3)

DO IT! Pull the trigger Cobra Commander!