MRM4

I'm new here, been thinking about getting an IS250 or IS350. In looking around at these cars, I've noticed there are a number of packages containing different options. I haven't found a resource that breaks them down, so I though it would be best to ask those that own these cars the differences in each package. If anyone could help me out, I would appreciate it. It will also help me decide if I want to pursue getting one. Thanks.

vapid2323

If you go to http://www.lexus.com and build a IS, about the third step in it will cover all packages in detail. With pictures, descriptions, even videos.

The other place I might go is to a dealer and grab some info on both cars.

hhss

iTrader: (1)

Did you even bother to use the search function...

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...-packages.html

Tarrant64

Most of the packages are listed somewhere on Lexus's site. Some of the information has been posted on these forums already as well (search!). In either case, here's a quick breakdown however some of the options change depending on the year. So please let us know what year, model, RWD/AWD model you're looking for.

Example: 2011 IS350 HID's became standard and it no longer required a certain package to get them.

Luxury Package (AWD only) -
- Power tilt-and-telescopic steering column
- Lexus Memory System for power driver's seat (except lumbar), outside mirrors and steering wheel
- Illuminated doorsill scuff plates
- Power rear-window sunshade
- Rain-sensing intermittent windshield wipers with mist cycle
- Electrochromic (auto-dimming) outside mirrors with auto tilt-down in reverse
- Bi-xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
- Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS)

Premium Package (RWD only) -
- Auburn bird's-eye maple interior trim
- Perforated leather-trimmed interior
- Heated and ventilated front seats

MRM4

I guess I should have said I'd be looking at a used vehicle, not a new one.

DKnight350

If you are not sure if you want a 250 or 350, I would say you need to make that decision, then look at features. All of them are pretty well featured.

Just make sure you are certain about the 250 vs. 350, cause I bought the 250 and traded it for a 350 3 months later for the power. Adding more speed to the 250 is not economical. If you care at all about speed or acceleration - get the 350.

MRM4

I'd rather have a 350 because of the power. Since 75% of my driving is city driving, not sure how much I need the power. I currently own a Pontiac G8 GT. I rarely get the opportunity to really open it up. There's one dealership near me that has both a used 250 and a used 350 for sale. I may go by there and see if they'll let me drive both just to compare.

Kurtz

iTrader: (1)

You don't ever want to do that...

All that shows you is what is available at local dealers, not what the actual options available on a car from the factory are.



If you want to see all the options for the current year you'd instead go here:

http://www.lexus.com/models/IS/features/pricing.html


If you want to know about previous years it's pretty simple.. Hrmnds link has a post of mine that covers all the major packages up through 2010... a more complete version is in the buyers guide and includes some later year info-
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...e-threads.html

Also be sure to use the info on "how to tell" from the buyers guide because most used IS ads totally lie about what the car comes with package wise.

MRM4

That last link is what I need. Very well done. Have some reading to do. Thanks.

What kind of gas mileage are you 350 owners getting with city driving?

Kurtz

iTrader: (1)

I usually get 20-22 in the city depending on traffic and weather and fuel blend... highway is 28-30 if no mountains are involved.

SC400MAN

iTrader: (1)

Agree on that mpg on my wife's 350.

MRM4

That's better than what I'm getting now which is about 14-15 city, but I can get 23-24 on the highway even doing 80-85.

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

Get the 350, you won't regret it! Test drive both, and you'll see why we say get the 350! The fuel mileage between the two models isn't that far apart and the 350 is less prone to have the common carbon build-up issue.

Post pics and the vin when you get the chance!

Tarrant64

You'll want the 350. I spent months searching for one and had trouble settling on a 250. Ultimately what it came down to was the lack of power. 200+ is nothing to sneeze at but something about that particular engine is lacking. It's still a great looking car, and if MPG is critical it's a good second choice. The 350 would be the choice if you were power hungry. You will want to test drive both. I did several times and couldn't get over the different - I bought my 350 ultimately 3 weeks ago.

As far as 350 MPG, I get 17-20 city, 23-25 highway. I'm all over in terms of city vs hwy so I'd say I'm right around 22 and I'm happy with that. I do have the AWD which can get a little less. I've never seen 27+ consistently, granted I haven't had it that long.

EDIT:
I also see you're coming from a Pontiac G8 GT? That's no slouch. A 250 would be a huge step down. I'm not sure the 350 would be adequate either. I think the ISx50 looks better than the G8 GT, but on paper I hope you realize what you're switching too.

Individual

iTrader: (7)

My vote goes to 350 too if you're okay with 19-22mpg city, which is what I average. I once averaged 18mpg, but I was doing more spirited driving that time.