jackjohnso

Hi all,

I am interested in buying a used car in the <$25k range. I'm looking at the Audi a4, BMW 328i, Infiniti g37, and the Lexus IS250. I'm leaning towards the IS250 but I want more input just to be sure I'm making the right choice.

1) Is this car reliable? I just graduated and this will be my first car so I need something that won't break down.

2) Is it relatively fast and fun to drive? I am currently driving a Honda so I'm sure it'll be much faster but I'm wondering what you guys think.

3) Is it possible to get a 2010+ with under 45k miles for around 22k? I can go up to 25k but I rather stay lower if possible(I'm in the PA area).

4) What is your most hated and loved things about the car?

Thanks a lot guys, feel free to say anything else that you feel is helpful.

darkdream

1)Yes

2) If your idea of fun is fast, you are better off getting something else. These days alot of cars are coming out with 350+ hp for around 25k-30k. It is not also the best for tracking either. It has alot of body roll.

3) Definitely possible, especially outside of California.

4) Many hate the melting dashboards( I do not have the problem). My biggest complaint is the lack of steering feel (improved on the 2010+ cars).

jackjohnso

Thanks for the reply. So in your opinion, it doesn't feel fast at all? Like i said I come from a honda civic so anything that is even a "little" fast will feel fast to me. Also, what do you mean by melting dashboard?

LP817

iTrader: (1)

I agree with darkdream's repsonse on 1-3. My only complaint is lack of leg room for the back seat, But I knew about it when I was purchasing my 07 is350

darkdream

I have a IS350 and it feels slow compared to newer cars. These days not even 300 horsepower is considered much. If you are concerned about having a fast car, there are plenty of other options with your 25k budget. Many pre 2010 cars have problems with melting dashboards and other panels, but it seems to be in areas of high humidity and heat.

lucidspoon

Small backseat is the biggest problem I have with the IS. Can't have a front passenger with a car seat in the back, and my friends don't seem to like riding in the back.

My IS350 is plenty of power for me, but it makes anything around 200hp seem sluggish.

jackjohnso

Thanks, what cars do you suggest in the 25k range that are faster?

Sffd103

iTrader: (16)

Out of the ones you listed the only other one I'd look at is the Infinity. It looks like you want a sedan and reliability. I'd go for a bit older IS350 cause it has 100HP more. You should drive one to feel it.