Lexus IS250 Review
Loading Vehicle Picker...
LEXUS IS250 Review
Summary:
What we like: Handling, Styling
What we don't like: Limited rear seat space
Click here to get the lowest price on a LEXUS.
LEXUS IS250 review in detail:
Now in its second generation, the IS Series Lexus is a Japanese car aimed at taking on the big-name European marques at their own game. As the dedicated athletic sport sedan, the Lexus IS 250 carries on the tradition of the Lexus IS model. Under its sharply styled exterior, the sedan packs a sophisticated suspension, powerful brakes and a V6 providing respectable performance.Cabin space has been improved from the old IS, but a rear-drive layout doesn't make for high interior volume in any low-slung vehicle.
Lexus now follows most other marques in using a twin-cam V6, despite strongly promoting the use of a straight-six engine in the original IS. The 2.5-litre powerplant is mostly set up for European conditions, so perhaps a little lacking in torque at low revs. It's good over 3000 rpm and simply sensational once it's passed 4000 rpm.
Gear changes in the manual variant are slick and precise, with a lovely metallic feel that's a joy to live with.
The manual transmission allows drivers to wring out a bit more performance from the small V6 engine, but overall the automatic is a better choice. Either way, expect adequate acceleration. The ride is controlled but soft, and the IS 250's plush cabin, devoid of any noise, harshness or vibration, is a portrait of tranquility. On twisting roads, this smallest of Lexus sedans is comfortable, reassuring and competent.
Steering is nicely direct, with near-instantaneous response and excellent feedback.
The brakes are superb and pull the car up reassuringly from high speeds, with a nice meaty bite that suggests they stay fade-free under just about any circumstances.
In crash tests, the Lexus IS 250 earned a "Good" rating (the best possible) for its performance in IIHS frontal offset and side-impact testing.
In the entry-luxury sport sedan segment, the IS 250's strongest competition comes from the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. Finding a winner isn't easy. The Lexus excels when it comes to comfort and feature availability. Only in the more esoteric areas of chassis response and driving enjoyment does the 325i prove to be superior. In reality it's hard to go wrong with any of these great machines.
Testimonials
We saved around $1500 which was absolutely fantastic given that it resulted from only one web enquiry and five minutes of our time! Thankyou so much. And, yes, we will tell others of your service.
J.T., Canberra
Just to let you know that we took delivery of the new Mazda SP23 last night with the customer service from the dealer first class. I would like to take this oportunity in thanking you for your help, professional advice and most important getting me a great deal on the Mazda SP23 that I would never have achieved.
C.A., Perth
Thanks for the quote. I am kicking my self slightly. In the weekend I went to my local dealer to test drive the car and was offered exactly my spec with 1500km on the clock. 3 months old for $55K (the GMs car). I had to make a call on the spot because another chap was also looking at it. I thought this would be pretty hard to beat so i went for it. If i had waited i guess i would have an absolutely new car and with 12 months worth of rego not 9. We live and learn. Next time. Thanks and regards
W.D., Sydney
Just a short note to say thank you for brokering the purchase of my new car. The MX-5 is fantastic and what's even better is the great price you negotiated for me. The Paint Protection went on with ease and the finish is superb. I'm glad you recommended it. The entire experience has been a positive one for me. I will gladly recommend your company to any of my friends or family who are thinking of purchasing a vehicle in the future.
R.H., Adelaide
I'd like to take this opportunity to say that this is a fantastic service you offer, especially for a woman as it takes away the pain of dealing with car salesmen. Using your service saved me thousands of dollars and I will definitely recommend you to all my friends and colleagues, in fact one has already logged on to get a quote today.
S.T., Sydney
Delivering what you promise is the foundation of good business. I am sure that's why you sell so many cars for people like myself. Keep up the good work!
L.B., Sydney
It is a sorely needed service as we have had nothing but stress and grief with the dealers we have approached ourselves.
J.F., Melbourne
Picking up car on Friday. Saved >$3000. Thanks for everything. Would recommend process highly. Thanks!
H.M., Brisbane
I received my new car last week which was the fisrt time I set foot on a car lot during this and it was one of the most painless experiences! I have and will continue recommending your services to all my friend and colleges. Thanks for the prompt, professional service and the huge savings.
C.J., Brisbane
Thanks for your help. Must admit I was very sceptical in dealing 'on line' with an unknown person/company. As a single woman I don't want the hassle of going backwards and forwards, playing one dealer off the other. I used the internet to get a measure of what's reasonable and then it's 'give me your best price' no second chance. Some people can't get their head around that but life's too short. I only want to deal with ethical people. I'm happy that a salesperson makes a profit but it has to be fair for both parties. Thanks and I'll be recommending your site to friends.
M.F., Brisbane