wasjr

I also believe you should look hard at the ES. Large comfortable back seat, good mpg, regular gas.

tex2670

Personally, I feel if you that if you are going into ES territory, you should also look at the Avalon (especially with the OP's price cap). I like the Avalon styling better--but that's subjective.

AkhilinMD

How about a GS? I am partial to RWD, but cognizant it may not be practical budget-wise.

But used GS' are reasonable, and the 2012+ models have the new interior (which I love). Got my eye on some GS350s (blue with brown or tan interior) - wifey's already pre-approved the car, so I'm good with everything but size and budget

Anyone know of any maintenance issues with GS'?

ES/Avalon - looked at both, check all the right boxes, including boring and middle-age (I know, I know, but I'm married with kid, not dead).

Guys, thanks again for all your input. Really appreciate it.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

you mean 2013+. it is a nice car, my daily now, and it does have decent rear cabin room. again the center spot is a bit tricky but a good car overall

mmarshall

Consumer Reports cautioned against the early GS300AWD versions on reliability, but otherwise nothing else I know of.

tex2670

I don't think he's looking for something that old.

UDel

IS rear seat is too small for 2 adults and a child to be comfortable, even on shorter trips if you are going to do it regularly. IS250 is underpowered too especially with 5 people in it but it won't be any worse then a 4 cylinder compact. IS250 also may still have carbon fouling issues with the DI engine, you may want to look into that.

Huge difference in size/price between a IS and LS. I would look at a Lexus ES, slightly used ones will easily fit your budget and will be less expensive then the IS plus you will get a larger stronger V6 standard. You may be partial to RWD but it is not going to make much difference in a V6 car with under 300hp plus in DC you will likely prefer the traction of FWD in snow. You also may want to look into a Acura TLX or Infiniti Q50, both good reliable entry luxury sedans, a new Accord is a excellent car too, V6's are really quick.

AkhilinMD

Stop making sense. It's like you using common sense and logic....

Actually, I was surprised that the Avalon beats out the ES and GS in interior space.

Still pushing for the GS (be still, my beating heart), but practicality may win out in the long run (can't find a GS in the right color combo).

Thanks for your advice!

AkhilinMD

Thanks, UDel!

Not really interested in Infinissan/Acuronda products - have owned Hondas and Nissans prior and they never inspired confidence (Nissan Maxima - great engine and interior, crap build quality, Honda Fit - great car, quirky Honda drivetrain and NVH).

Think a new (or lightly used) ES or GS seem to be the way forward. Emailed the Lexus dealer to find a CPO GS - got a form email back with a standard CPO regurgitation. Waste of time. Think it'll have to wait till after I move.

tex2670

Just don't rule out Honda because you didn't like the Fit. They make good cars.

-J-P-L-

New Toyota Highlander. $40K and a great overall value. Superb versatility. Close to Lexus interior.
A used LS will have high maintenance costs.