ctruon1

A. http://www.toyotaofclovis.com/detail...-12700523.html

B. http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...83668714&Log=0

I'm a 21 year old college student who is in search of their first car. In a previous post, people have suggested I go for the IS350 or get a cheaper model car (like B), however, the IS350 is out of my price range. I'm looking for a reliable car that would last me 10+ years plus and is low maintenance. Both cars kind of fit that bill, but for the Lexus, its slightly higher maintenance. The most common problem that I've heard for the IS250, is the carbon build up, among other issues. Though I can afford to pay to fix these problems, I'd rather not. If I got the Camry, my parents would pay that for me, but if I got the Lexus, I would have to pitch in an extra $5k, which I don't really mind. I also would be driving 36 miles everyday, mainly on the freeway.

Gerb

We have some in vancouver for 12k - 14k Canadian with half the km probably cause your buying off dealer

pmanliu

iTrader: (4)

I think that everything that needs to be said, has been said in your other thread already. You answered your own question - you're worried about maintenance, therefore I'd shy away from the 250 if you want to avoid that risk completely.

ctruon1

I should obviously get the Camry, but I irrationally want the Lexus.

Edit: What about the ES350? I heard that its more reliable than the IS models. My dad drives an ES300 and it still works great after 14 years.
I looked and found a 2007 ES350 @ 75k miles for $16,900 and the car fax looks great.

http://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/de...3636/overview/

darkdream

The poster is from California and cars here are always more, but usually better condition. Many out of state cars that come in the state have salt damage and rust.

darkdream

The 2nd generation IS does not have folding rear seats. If it is the only car you plan to have for the next 10 years you might want to consider that.

The ES is a boring car. I got the latest generation as a loaner car and I really disliked it. I actually preferred to drive my sister's corolla over it. Have you driven both the cars? You will notice a huge difference.

ctruon1

I have not driven a IS model, but have driven the Corolla and my dad's ES300. Driving my dad's car, is a nicer smooth ride, however, the car is a bit large, for my taste, whereas, I like to drive the Corolla since its a lot easier to maneuver and park. But, overall, I don't mind driving that size, I'm use to it since I switch between, his Lexus and my mom's Avalon.

Sffd103

iTrader: (16)

I have a 20 year old college student and I think the Lexus looks nicer but if you want to be worry free, and if your parents are paying for it go for the Camry. Who cares what you drive as long as you can get to school and not have Another thing to stress about. Graduate, get a good job and get what YOU want!

darkdream

Oh. So you just want a smooth ride and do not want a sporty ride? In that case the ES will be a much better choice vs the IS, corolla, or camry.

Gerb

we are just a bit above cali.

xanderES

iTrader: (8)

^far enough north to where there are actually seasons it was 77 degrees yesterday!

The ES is a great car. No carbon build up, drives on REGULAR, 270hp and is an awesome cruiser. Just dont expect it to handle like a sports car. And a plus is they are super cheap in california right now. Can be had for ~15k or less. Only major problem is the timing cover leaking which is EXPENSIVE. They're owned mostly by seniors 55+ so they are well taken care of in terms of maintenance and they arn't abused. Just make sure to use drivers.lexus.com to search the maintenance history.
I owned one from 06-2013, put on 88k and never had a problem. Just got tired of no aftermarket support so I changed to an IS.

jst17

I'm aN undergrad at a uni as well. To give you my perspective, I think if you get the Lexus don't expect it to last 10 years like you said. A lot of things will happen during that time.

Problems will come up and 74k is a fair bit of mileage. I would say definitely go for the Lexus, but buy one with warranty(CPO) which is usually 4 years of worry free time, by then you will be out of college and will be capable of covering any odd job that could potentially come up; an common alternator change at dealer is $1000+, an oil change is $140. Or most likely, sell it before warranty and get a better car.

Just my 2 cent.