liazon

iTrader: (1)

Hi guys. I've been around the GS forum for a long time but new to this one.
I am considering a move into a 2011 IS350 as my 66k 2005 GS430 is no more. (sad) It is nearly irreplaceable, unless I have 6 months to locate another, which I don't.
I have found a 55k IS350 that is super clean. I have driven it. I like the ride, etc....What's not to like....except......
As a longtime owner of 2nd generation v8 Lexus, though, I must admit I'm fearful the IS350 might turn out to be a much higher maintenance car due to the high output v6 and all the bells and whistles. This fear is affecting my ability to make a decision.

Please advise, IS350 owners, especially those who've been in their car for 2+ years, would you buy your car again?

I trust my fellow CL members on this and your advice will help me.
Thanks in advance.

yardie876

I haven't owned either of those cars, but the 3.5L engine (aside from their stellar V8s) is a Tried and true Lexus motor. There's a reason it's been in use for over 10 years lol. Only issue I've seen is a leaky water pump. On the inside, the touch screen (if so equipped) has had a few failures that I've seen.

MikeyK02

iTrader: (7)

I'd buy another 350 no issues at all. Just stay onto of the water pump (leaks) and you don't have much else (unless touchscreen nav)

I regret selling my 350, but my 250s will do until I find another clean one

jadu

iTrader: (42)

The 3uz is one hell of an engine and I'm sure you're gonna miss it. I have an 06 gs430, which I love to death, and I'd be in the same position as you if I ever lost it. Id say look into another gs430, gs460 or ls430 or try out a 350 at car max or something-it's not gonna have the torque that's for sure. Gl on your search.

Ling2IS

iTrader: (4)

How do you sell a 350 and go to a 250? o.O

MikeyK02

iTrader: (7)

Easily. 6 speed manual

jonnyp34

I have never loved a car like I do my IS350. What I have experienced so far:
I bought it used and have had it for 18 months. It was in excellent shape and I take really good care of my car.
What I love:
The car is fast...way faster than anything I have owned before. (Jeeps, Hondas, 4Runner)
It's fun to drive. Good cornering, great brakes, and the acceleration from 20 - 90 is crazy fast.
You really feel connected to the road. Good means you stick to the road, bad means you really feel the pavement. On a good road that's great. On a bad road it's rough. If you want a cozy, comfortable car--this isn't it. This is a get me from point A to point B fast car.
It's quiet. Very little road noise.
And the stereo is amazing.

What I don't love:
The headroom isn't the best. I'm a tall dude so I have to lean the seat back quite a bit. With a small back seat, this makes legroom in the back VERY tight.
You will go through brake pads and tires quickly. I have replaced three of four tires, and all brakes/pads/rotors, including rear calipers.I have the RWD model, so no rotating tires.
Repairs on a Lexus are more expensive. I listed my previous cars up top. This car is just more expensive to drive.

Summary: If you want a really nice car that packages power into a luxury ride, but is more sport than comfort, this is the car for you.

1QWKGS4

iTrader: (3)

Hey Mark,

I don't own one but I drive an IS350 every other nite. I converted my Mercedes loving GF into now driving an IS350 (2011). I was in the same position at one time, I was thinking about the IS350 for myself because it has about the same performance as the V8 GS, and that it has newer Technology and newer styling. Like the other guy said, it's less smooth and luxurious as the GS. It's not real smooth if the roads are imperfect. It feels lighter and handles better despite it only weighs 100 pounds less than the 2GS. I'm a tall dude also, and even though legroom is just as good as the 2GS, it's a more tight up top in torso area and headroom is less. I'm almost touching the roof liner and I'm 6'3. In the GS, I'm very comfy and plenty of torso and headroom. Why, I still consider one? (Gas mileage is alot better with IS350) In my GS430, I get 21-22 hwy driving about 80-85mph.. I get 27-28 mpg in her car doing the same. 0-60 in the IS350 is like Rocket, the car is very peppy, not as torquey as the GS430 but plenty of pepp to keep you happy. I do miss my car when we driver her car often. I prefer my GS430 but the IS350 feels more connected to the road, it's very sporty, fun sedan and quick! The Highway gear in the GS430 is phenomenal, if we both kicked it about 80, the GS430 will pull away and i'm easily doing 130-140 in a matter of seconds. In my opinion due to the IS350 low rear end 4.10 ratio, it doesn't have much power left after 90-95 mph.. but the IS350 is a Rocket from 0 to Quarter mile. The GS430 also excel better in mid-power. Say both cars are going 40-50, both cars kick it, the GS takes the IS because of the Goobs of Torque the GS V8 puts out of that has more usable power.

I feel the IS350 is an excellent commuter car for driving short distances like 40-50 miles a day, but it's not a comfy highway cruiser like the GS V8. To me, the IS350 is harder to get in and out of than the GS, I'm almost 6'4 and about 250. If you're shorter like around 5'10 to 6ft should be okay. My GF is 5'6" and she loves it. perfect for her.. Anyways, which ever you decide, they're both great cars but they're designed to do different things. (Also the IS350 has a Staggered Tires setup (No Rotation), and it seems to wear tires in the back alot quicker than the GS's.

Good Luck man..

liazon

iTrader: (1)

great thoughts, thank you.
I've decided to buy the car.

Ling2IS

iTrader: (4)

Lol... It's still a 250 regardless

COOLIS

I have an 02 GS430 and an 06 GS430. I previously had an 06 IS350 and their are major differences between the 2 cars, although, both are great cars in their own ways. Of course the biggest difference is the V6 vs. V8. The V8 is smooth and refined and the V6 is a little more coarse and noisy. Your 05 had a timing belt and the IS350 has a timing chain, so you will notice the noise. Maintenance shouldn't be an issue. The IS350 has proven to be pretty reliable.

liazon

iTrader: (1)

Well I have to say I am in heaven so far having made the switch to the 11' IS350 (55k miles).
I got new tires right off and the car rides super smooth.
The engine is quiet and smooth but explosive if you floor it.
I am getting used to the whine of the timing chain (vs quieter belt in the 2GS)
The steering is tight, a perfect balance of luxury and sport.
Unlike the 2GS4 which had a little bit of lag off the line, the IS is super quick from a stop.
1st gear is actually a little bit 'jumpy' and I'm having to adjust with a lighter foot for normal driving.
The stereo rocks. I'm sure I'd be missing the backseat if I had passengers very often, but I don't so no worries.
With the seats back and the steering wheel adjusted to it's lowest setting, i couldn't ask for a more comfortable ride.
A very well thought out car, like the GS was, just smaller and quicker.
Thanks to everyone's input in helping me make my decision. It was a good one.