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One of my first stop for car shopping! Test drive the IS250... Totally up to my expectation. Class leading in almost every aspect. Probably only the C-class left an equally good experience.
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Worthy Compact Executive Sedan `
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I tested the IS250 in F Sport guise, and although the endowed body kit makes the car look more aggressive and sporty compared to the normal variant, somehow I still think I prefer the look of its predecessor over this new version. It's attention grabbing, but somehow looks a bit awkward.
Inside though, is where the magic unfolds. The build quality is nothing short of what you expect from Lexus, and the cabin is different from anything else out there, in a good way. The highlight would be the futuristic tachometer, which can slide around to reveal other menus.
Powered by a 2.5l NA engine, the handling is sharp and accurate while accompanied by a throaty roar when you rev the engine. While the car is not exactly slow, it does lack the torque of its turbocharged German counterparts which would have provided an even better driving experience. However, what it does well is merging both comfort and a sporty ride.
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Beats the BMW 328i in all areas except... `
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I was genuinely surprised by the 3rd generation IS250! I found it to be a better drive than the 328i. The steering is more precise and better weighted. I didn't notice the brakes so that's a good thing. Driving position is perfect and the seats are much better than the flat ones in the BMW. The styling you will either love or hate. I like it especially with the F Sport bodykit. At least it doesn't look as bland as the 3 series. The paintwork is much better than the 3 series. Lexus paintwork has always been fantastic. The interior is interesting and stylish. But I wish they would put in more aluminum trim instead of plastic on e centre console. What really blew me away was the ride and handling. My goodness, it rides and handles better than the 328i or the 335i. The 328i surprised me with its handling but not in a good way. It felt soft and unsure of itself, and the steering was vague! It felt like there is too much rubber in the suspension. The IS250 on the hand was a real gem! The only letdowns were the engine (smooth, great sounding but unresponsive and feeling like it had 170 bhp instead of 208) and the 6 speed automatic gearbox (slow not even that smooth). Can't wait for the new 2.0 straight four turbo engine from Lexus. I believe it will be smooth and refined, and if they can get it to match the 328i for power and torque, Lexus has a CLEAR winner.
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THE best car I've ever owned `
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coming from an audi a4 (2012 model), i am completely blown away by how the Lexus IS looks, handles and absorbs everything on the road.
as a touring car. there arent many that is more refined and balanced than this IS.
the a4 is shit in terms of handling when compared to this. in terms of serene environment when driving long distance, the IS is king. i tested the 328i, its noisy as hell on North South highway, thats why i bought the a4. its a much quieter car then there's the IS.
the handling is sublime, even my hardcore Beemer fan friend acknowledges it.
everything has its downside. for me the its the engine. with BMW and Mercs going turbo, this engine is still NA. being NA its really thirsty, also, its sprint time wont hurt the turbo guys.
however, on a day to day basis this car is perfect.
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