NAZTY97

Ok... outside of the obvious difference being performance / size.

How do you feel about the two models, in regards to build quality, amenities, etc. The two almost look identical, save physical dimenensions. How different is the interior??? Is the GS truly more luxurious???

HemantS

IS350 - faster, better handling, better fuel economy, sportier

GS300 - slower, more luxurious, "highway cruiser", better interior, larger

EyeKutr

iTrader: (5)

the 2 look almost identical What do you think about the difference in a fully loaded corolla and a camry...?? I dont mean to hassle you, but they look very different to me

NAZTY97

I was referring to the interior via webshots... i have not been in an IS350 in person....

and the two have very similar lines,... similar,..not exact.

lexlovgs

r u kidding? look almost identical?

IS - Smaller, no back seat, not graceful, compact, sharper edges...
GS - Bigger, luxurious, graceful yet sporty, Slower but carries its status, cruiser but responsive when pushed, so many auto features and amenties..

r u kidding? I rather drive GS than IS given a choice. IS is a great car too!

silvercvic

Now similar question:

GS 350 vs IS 350


don't mean to hijack this thread!

conclevage

iTrader: (1)

Depends on your taste...

Buy the IS350 if you want to drive first and enjoy that "sporty feel"

Buy the GS300 if you want to cruise in luxury/style.

I think the GS300 looks more pimp and since I'm not a speed demon, I feel like a big tymer when I'm cruisin in the lex.

RandalR

Well, that's a better question. I'm presuming the original poster used the GS300 for the comparison because the prices are rapidly becoming similar. IMHO, with the Gen5 Nav, the GS350 is a more "Lexus-like" car than the IS350 in every respect (except for the AUX input - big deal!) If you really want the "driving experience", you're going to be buying a BMW 335i over an IS350, anyway.

Shawnmack

The GS is more luxury with more detail than the IS

hsk73

Hmm... if you can't find difference between two Lexus model.... How about this?
Would you like BMW 3-series or 5-series??

crowe85

I struggled with this dilemma for a year until I ended up buying a GS350 over an IS350. In terms of exterior design, the IS is a mini-GS, both look awesome, and differences in straight-line speed, and least to me, are negligible (with an obvious slight edge to the IS). Here's why I chose the GS:

1) Cupholders: Sit in an IS and you will see what I mean. One cupholder (small) and one larger one inside the glove box, which risks condensation getting on whatever you have in there, likely an iPod since that's where the AUX input is.

2) Backseat: I very rarely drive with other people in my car, but nice to have a livable backseat when you need it.

3) Resale: Obviously a partial function of a higher sticker, but GS will retain its value better.

4) Exclusivity: In Los Angeles, the IS is quickly becoming as plentiful as the 3-series, and I didn't buy a Lexus to blend in.

The AUX input was the main reason I hesitated on the GS, but I came up with a factory-look solution that I've referenced in other posts and will post pictures as soon as I replace my digicam. Price was not a factor in my decision, but I don't feel I could have gone wrong with either car.

NAZTY97

I think my slight hesitation was the fact of coming from an SC400 ( V8 ) to the lower hp engine, and bigger car, to which I saw an IS350 for the same price... I got to wondering... are these cars really that similar for their price to overlap??

I haven't grasped the whole level of differnce in luxury factor...as I have not sat in an IS350 yet. I just looked at the pics online,...and it didn't appear to be a far shot from the GS's interior...save placement and maybe aesthetic layout. That 306hp was calling my name for a second.... but again.... IS doesn't seem to "big boy" to me.

The GS looks more pimp to me, because it is bigger and I did like the amenities it had.

Now here's a flip,... how much lesser is it in detail / luxury than the LS series???

I already know the obvious of the engines....but arent they similar in some ways?

bcz i can

I have a GS and my girlfriend has the IS. The GS is complete comfort and luxury which is more my style. The IS is fun, good handling and paddle shifters, but unless you intend to take corners and use the paddle shifters often I would go for the GS

INHOCJP

Unfortunately in So. Cal., it's hard to stand out driving almost any luxury model. Heck, I see numerous AMGs on my daily commute. And last weekend while at the Grove, I parked next to two Bentley Continental GTs.

RandalR

LOL! That's the truth - here in NoCal, too. Lexus is a working-class brand around here...and only illegal aliens drive American cars.