IS - 3rd Gen (2014-present) Discussion about the 2014+ model IS models

Leasing a 200T F-Sport vs. 350 F-Sport

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Old 10-31-15, 04:36 AM
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SK0077
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Default Leasing a 200T F-Sport vs. 350 F-Sport

Hello all. I live in SC and am new to leasing. I am looking to lease either a 2016 200t F-Sport with navigation, BSM or a 350 F-Sport also with with navigation, BSM. I am set on the Atomic silver or Obsidian black with the Rioja red interior.

I drove a IS250 a few times and was underwhelmed by the engine, so was really looking forward to the 200T. I drove a 200t yesterday (non F-sport) but left it in Sport mode the entire time and wasn't particularly blown away by this engine either. It was very smooth and had some good pull once it was past 2500 RPM, but I didn't have that happy grin. I did like the slight turbo whistle, but I wanted to like it more as it's obviously more affordable than the 350. I didn't get a chance to drive the 350 yet as one wasn't available, but one should be today.

Anyway, I got some numbers on both the 200t F-sport and 350 F-sport:

200t F-sport, navi, and BSM: MRSP: $44,170, $1,000 recent graduate discount
12,000 miles/36 months, $2,500 down, $410/month

350 F-sport, navi, and BSM: MRSP: $47,325, $1,000 recent graduate discount
12,000 miles/36 months, $2,500 down, $485/month

Any feedback on these numbers? I don't have the MF or residual, but am sure I can get them. I was told these numbers may change as today is the end of the month.

I know the 200t F-sport gets significantly better mileage, but I have been waiting 2 years to finally new a new car and I want to be in love with it. Anyone have some insight on what it is like driving/owning the 350. The only issues I have come across is the tires tend to wear pretty quickly, but I am okay with that.

Thanks for reading and let me know if you can help.
Old 10-31-15, 05:05 AM
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Nathan901
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What is the residual value for them?
Old 10-31-15, 06:27 AM
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evident
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Welcome to the forums.

If you're underwhelmed by the 250 and the 200t then it's obvious. get the 350 otherwise you'll be regretting it. I love getting in my 350 f-sport every day, with no regrets!

I never even considered the 250 since it's such a lousy engine. honestly it's not even the same car. i'd pick a BMW 320 or 328 over the 250, or hell an acura tsx. I never drove the 200t but i don't think the difference of saving 3K is worth skimping out on the 350.
Old 10-31-15, 06:42 AM
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EZZ
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If you test drive the 350, keep in mind that it has a sport+ mode that the other IS versions lack. This really changes the behavior of the car. The variable suspension becomes stiffer and the throttle gets really responsive. Steering feel also changes dramatically. I bet after test driving the car in this mode, the decision becomes much easier.
Old 10-31-15, 07:55 AM
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corradoMR2
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Almost a year into ownership of the NX 200t and if I had a choice between this 4 cyl Turbo and the 3.5L V6, with 100% certainty, I would get the V6.

2L Turbo Plusses:
- Fuel economy
- Rush of Turbo boost and feeling of unlimited power
- Trick Boost and G-Meter gauges
- Smooth and fairly quiet for a 4-cylinder

Minuses:
- 4-cylinder note not pleasing (to my ears)
- some slight roughness at idle
- Soft launch, lag even in Sport mode

I love the 2.5L V6 in my IS over this 4cyl Turbo in the NX and I would swap for the 2.5 in a heartbeat as it's smoother, torquier/responsive, and sounds so much better. The 3.5 is even better and no brainer for an extra 70$ a month more on the lease.
Old 10-31-15, 09:28 AM
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is300sport
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honestly talk to the south florida dealers for a better price. jm lexus, pembroke pines, etc.. If you can wait till December.
Old 10-31-15, 11:10 AM
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tea
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to me, 350 > 250 >200t. go for the 350
Old 10-31-15, 02:29 PM
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SK0077
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Thanks for the posts everyone, I appreciate it.

I just got back from driving a 350 F-Sport (Atomic Silver, with the Rioja Red)... needless to say I was IMPRESSED. The thing moves and sounds good doing it. After driving the 350, I can't go back to the 200t. I had it in Sport+ mode and it just sounds like a beast. I am looking to get a better deal as the $485 is slightly too high. I am considering waiting until December and see what the deals are.

As for residuals... I didn't ask yet, but I should.
Old 10-31-15, 04:16 PM
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Suspenders
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I'd say go for the 350 f sport. I test drove a 2016 IS300 on Tuesday and bought the 350 on Wednesday.

You won't regret it.
Old 11-01-15, 09:26 AM
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ExSrAaron
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Those monthly payments don't seem very good to me, especially for a 36 month lease. Check out the lease thread and try to get close to those figures before the graduate incentive. For example my 24month lease payment is $399 with less money down.

Can't speak for the 200T but the IS350 is a nice DD if you're satisfied with the power. Decent MPG, quiet inside, very composed over rough roads, and handles good for a heavy sedan. Good luck!
Old 11-01-15, 11:10 AM
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SK0077
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@ExSrAaron, thank you for those numbers. My goal is to get the payment a lot closer to $400 and would consider a 24 month lease as well. Are your numbers for a F-sport? Thanks again.

@Suspenders, thanks and congratulations!!
Old 11-01-15, 04:33 PM
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ExSrAaron
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Yup, same build as you listed I think. IS350 F sport (RWD), BSM, NAV w/ML, and VGRS. There's a lot of other CL members who got similar payments as well. There's a ton of these IS350's out there so don't rush to get one if the price isn't right, make sure you get ur payment where you want it first!
Old 11-01-15, 05:04 PM
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ALE81
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A quick question for those leasing their IS. Does it include insurance or are you buying that separately?
Thanks!
Old 11-01-15, 08:16 PM
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2015isboy
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Test drove both cars this past weekend. Night and Day between both cars. You get so much more for your money with the 350 f sport.

If you are looking for a little pep and some gas savings gets the 200t. Otherwise its a no brainier to try and at least go for the 350. Car is too much fun
Old 11-02-15, 03:12 AM
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SK0077
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Originally Posted by ExSrAaron
Yup, same build as you listed I think. IS350 F sport (RWD), BSM, NAV w/ML, and VGRS. There's a lot of other CL members who got similar payments as well. There's a ton of these IS350's out there so don't rush to get one if the price isn't right, make sure you get ur payment where you want it first!
Thanks a lot for this advice. I am going to try to be patient and get the payments closer to $400 and contact another Lexus dealer in the state for some numbers as well.

What do you think of the ML sound system? Do you think it's worth the upgrade? Thank you.


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