Hi, I am looking into buying a 2006 Lexus IS. The thing is, after reading reviews, the IS250 is more fuel efficient, but the IS350 has more HP. I don't know which one to pick, so I read reliability reviews on both. I came to conclude that the IS250 had reliability issues, and the IS350 was actually reliable. Can anyone tell me if this is true please? This would be helpful. Thanks.

 

My 350 has been flawless for 63k.....knock on wood......plus 100hp more is more enjoyable to drive!

 

it all comes down to what you are looking for, saving gas or you want a car with alot of hp. If you're going for hp i say forget the 350 just buy a IS F.

 

For the most part, both share the same issues. There are 2 "big" issues that are exclusive to each model though. IS250 suffers from carbon build up issues (covered thru TSIB during warranty), and the IS350 has issues with the valve springs (covered by a recall). The carbon build up TSIB for the 250 isn't a permanent fix though.

 

The IS350 is the more reliable, and gas is negligible. Its about 1 mpg difference...

It really comes down to if you want AWD or if you have the extra cash for the 350

 

I believe the valve spring recall effected models up to 2009 and early 2010s.

 

Go with the 350, price difference isn't much + it is more reliable. In terms of gas, it's not much of a difference if any at all.

 

valve springs recall are for.. "2006, 2007 and 2008 GS, LS and IS models powered by either the company's 3.5-liter V6 or 4.6-liter V8."

Get the IS350.

 

+1on the IS350. Valve spring recall fix is a one time free deal and should be done asap. Carbon build up is a recurring deal. Gl

 

350 all day! Same price in some cases. Take your time searching

 

I owned the 250 and traded up for the 350. The power of the 250 is less than I had hoped for.


Reliability wise, they are both above average for reliability. If you like the power and can afford the higher price, extra few bucks at the pump, and higher ins cost, get the 350. I still get 27 MPG highway.

Drive both and decide!

 

350 would be my vote as you do not have to deal with the carbon buildup issue, The valve spring is a one time thing. The only other issue I have has is the "start up grind" on the 350 again covered under warranty and hasn't come back.

 

If these 2 models are your only options, I would go with IS350 to save the headache/worries for engine carbon buildup and spend more gas money down the road than on the IS250.
If you are seeking reliabilty only, I would go with diesel engine which last twice much gas mileage between each fill up, and stronger engine which can last longer than gas powered engine.

 

Go with the 350

 

while I accept that diesels are very reliable, they are not 100% either - especially the newer ones with all the emissions related items are getting worse and worse with higher service costs...