Entry level lux car: IS250 still viable?
The A4 is quite a bit bigger than the IS. A few inches really make a difference in this class. But, I would advise to totally steer away from a front wheel drive A4 - the torque of the 2.0T is too much for the drive train and wheel spin is a big issue. So looking at a Quattro model, it's probably getting above her price range, considering you'll get a huge discount as they try to clear out any remaining last gen IS250's. there's really never been a better time to buy one.
The carbon buildup is an issue for those whose trips never allow the engine to fully warm to operating temperature, and neglect their oil changes. Get synthetic oil everytime, and it's really not an issue.
The IS is one of the most reliable cars you can buy, and the fact it's a Lexus means you get an outstanding total ownership experience well above that of a Honda.
The carbon buildup is an issue for those whose trips never allow the engine to fully warm to operating temperature, and neglect their oil changes. Get synthetic oil everytime, and it's really not an issue.
The IS is one of the most reliable cars you can buy, and the fact it's a Lexus means you get an outstanding total ownership experience well above that of a Honda.
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From: Montreal, QC
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From: ON/NY
My sister in law is looking to replace a 14 year old accord. She always liked my IS250 AWD back when I had it. Lexus Canada is giving them away now with a 3000$ cash incentive, on top of any negotiated dealer discount. She likes the price, the styling and the long list of standard equipment.
Is a 250 still worth it today? It's at the end of it's life cycle. The infotainment is a decade old (does it even have a USB port?). It's seriously down on power compared to the American and German competition, though she could care less about acceleration.
I've been trying steer her towards a CT200h, which is more in line with her needs, but she doesn't like hatches.
She test drove the A4, but was put off by it's size, and the low content at base trim levels. The c300 is on her list too, but MB also rapes you on options. She refuses to try the S60 or ATS.
Opinions?
PS: did they fix the carbon issue in the 2013s?
Is a 250 still worth it today? It's at the end of it's life cycle. The infotainment is a decade old (does it even have a USB port?). It's seriously down on power compared to the American and German competition, though she could care less about acceleration.
I've been trying steer her towards a CT200h, which is more in line with her needs, but she doesn't like hatches.
She test drove the A4, but was put off by it's size, and the low content at base trim levels. The c300 is on her list too, but MB also rapes you on options. She refuses to try the S60 or ATS.
Opinions?
PS: did they fix the carbon issue in the 2013s?
She ended up buying an IS250:
Poor power from a V6
Premium fuel
Loud tires
Loud interior
Fatiging drIve
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From: Southeastern PA
Lexus Test Driver
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From: Treasury
Buddy just picked up a 2013 Buick Regal GS and I have to say the outside looks awesome.
The next step down you can get a Turbo -AWD, for a pretty good price right now, loaded, with good style........
The next step down you can get a Turbo -AWD, for a pretty good price right now, loaded, with good style........
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 20,238
Likes: 274
My sister in law is looking to replace a 14 year old accord. She always liked my IS250 AWD back when I had it. Lexus Canada is giving them away now with a 3000$ cash incentive, on top of any negotiated dealer discount. She likes the price, the styling and the long list of standard equipment.
Is a 250 still worth it today? It's at the end of it's life cycle. The infotainment is a decade old (does it even have a USB port?). It's seriously down on power compared to the American and German competition, though she could care less about acceleration.
I've been trying steer her towards a CT200h, which is more in line with her needs, but she doesn't like hatches.
She test drove the A4, but was put off by it's size, and the low content at base trim levels. The c300 is on her list too, but MB also rapes you on options. She refuses to try the S60 or ATS.
Opinions?
PS: did they fix the carbon issue in the 2013s?
Is a 250 still worth it today? It's at the end of it's life cycle. The infotainment is a decade old (does it even have a USB port?). It's seriously down on power compared to the American and German competition, though she could care less about acceleration.
I've been trying steer her towards a CT200h, which is more in line with her needs, but she doesn't like hatches.
She test drove the A4, but was put off by it's size, and the low content at base trim levels. The c300 is on her list too, but MB also rapes you on options. She refuses to try the S60 or ATS.
Opinions?
PS: did they fix the carbon issue in the 2013s?
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 22,608
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From: Waiting for next track day
I found the power totally adequate when I used to drive them as loaners, great gas mileage, nice looks, last model year tweaks and reliability, and a great price. Sounds like a good deal especially if having the last gen model doesnt bother her. If she wants to spend less I would say KIA Optima all the way. Great looks, solid reliability, good size, and great styling
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From: Maryland
I just had a CT200h loaner. You could not pay me to drive a CT. Only Lexus I have ever driven that I can safely say I hate.
You really should try and get her to drive the ATS. Seriously, in that segment right now the ATS is a real winner.
You really should try and get her to drive the ATS. Seriously, in that segment right now the ATS is a real winner.
Just "test" drove it today. Forgot how old the tech was. Ipod integration sucks, center stack still has the 80s VCR LCD display. Need to get navigation to get most of the decent functions. My wife's chevy cruze has a better infotainment system.
Honestly, for my money I would get a Verano. Next week we try the Benz c300.
Honestly, for my money I would get a Verano. Next week we try the Benz c300.
indeed.
what's an A7 got to do with a 14 yr old accord or an is250 or even an a4? 
She was complaining the A4 is too big.
Thread Starter
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From: Montreal, QC
I tried to get her try an ATS 2.0, she has no desire to be associated with teh cadillac brand. It's amazing how someone who knows so little about cars, has such strong opinions about brands. kudos to the marketing machine from 4th Reich motors.
She might be better off waiting for the CLA or new A3, but the Accord is being held together by rust and duct tape.
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Exactly. What she wants is a Corolla with a German badge.
I tried to get her try an ATS 2.0, she has no desire to be associated with teh cadillac brand. It's amazing how someone who knows so little about cars, has such strong opinions about brands. kudos to the marketing machine from 4th Reich motors.
She might be better off waiting for the CLA or new A3, but the Accord is being held together by rust and duct tape.
I tried to get her try an ATS 2.0, she has no desire to be associated with teh cadillac brand. It's amazing how someone who knows so little about cars, has such strong opinions about brands. kudos to the marketing machine from 4th Reich motors.
She might be better off waiting for the CLA or new A3, but the Accord is being held together by rust and duct tape.
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From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
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From: Southeastern PA
Exactly. What she wants is a Corolla with a German badge.
I tried to get her try an ATS 2.0, she has no desire to be associated with teh cadillac brand. It's amazing how someone who knows so little about cars, has such strong opinions about brands. kudos to the marketing machine from 4th Reich motors.
She might be better off waiting for the CLA or new A3, but the Accord is being held together by rust and duct tape.
I tried to get her try an ATS 2.0, she has no desire to be associated with teh cadillac brand. It's amazing how someone who knows so little about cars, has such strong opinions about brands. kudos to the marketing machine from 4th Reich motors.
She might be better off waiting for the CLA or new A3, but the Accord is being held together by rust and duct tape.