Thoughts on the IS350 AWD vs 335i xdrive?? About to make the plunge and really leaning towards the Lexus. Appreciate the input.

 

You're going to get biased opinions, but the 335ix will be sportier to drive, might have crappy run flats though, reliability is a major concern and the interior is not as nice much more cheap hard plastics. The IS350 AWD will have much better reliability, more comfortable, cheaper to maintain, nicer cabin materials, back seats do not fold down (unless you're going for a new 2014 IS model) like the BMW so usability is a bit more compromised. If you plan to modify anything, the 3-Series will have better aftermarket support especially in the performance department. Best bet is to drive both and see which you like better. It it were me I'd go with the IS.

 

^^^^ well said Hoovey................unless he talking about a new bmw where 4yr/50k miles maintenance is free.

 

Thanks, and yeah I forgot to take the maintanence into account. OP didn't list new or used.

 

Also, if its lease, I'd rather take the BMW. They have great lease offers and if reliability isn't a concern, then i like the BMW engine over the IS350.

 

Also depends on if your buying it or leasing it. New or used? Ive noticed that the 335xi's didnt really hold their value as well as the e46 did. Im surprised to see some of the earlier models of the e90 body style for under $18k at dealerships. Felt too soon

 

Lease BMW, buy IS. Love the new M Sport steering wheels in BMWs,

 

Whichever. Just drive both and see which one speaks to you more and go for it! Both are great cars.

 

Well, the former 335i was, IMO, a sport-sedan that, driving-wise, approached perfection. It had a superb ride/handling combination (even with harsher 35-series Sport Package tires), an ultra-firm brake pedal, and hydraulic power-steering so tactile you could almost steer the car blindfolded.

But it was also plagued with fuel-pump issues and often second-rate electronics. And the new BMWs are converting to electric power steering that, tactile-speaking, simply cannot match the old hydraulic units.

BTW.....welcome to CL and CAR CHAT as a new member. Glad to have you.

 

if you decide you love the beamer, make sure you have plenty of warranty or get an extended one for peace of mind....so calculate that cost in.

 

MODS- PM me if you think I'm being obnoxious, but I don't know how you haven't noticed a pattern here. I'm not sure what the impetus is, but Tim1988, jsanders, and now Philly350 have got to be related usernames. Their questions are innocent enough, but do you think its pure coincidence they all joined in January, post comparison threads, all have real names in their usernames?

 

TangoRed- the quote from Catch 22 seems applicable here... "Just because you're paranoid, doesn't mean they aren't after you." There's no foul play or trickery here. Just a guy asking a question. I appreciate all those who responded.