Guys I'm trying to buy a car for my mother. She's used to driving a small car and is short like 5' 1-2

I had decided on a IS350 but a friend said to take a look at a GS300. The prices seem to be about the same for 06 between the two models.

Which one would you recommend and why? The GS seems a lot more upscale and more car for the money but it may just be too big and bulky for my mom who doesn't hardly use her car and has just herself to take in it. Gas mileage and low maintenance is huge for my decision.

What do you think? thanks!

 

Does she care about a sporty ride? if not, I'd vote ES. But, between the 2, an IS250 sounds like it'll work and be more fuel efficient

 

ES330 also gets my vote. plus its an old women's car lol. for real now, ES330 is cheaper to keep up with and gets better MPG.

but if you must go with IS vs GS than I say GS, it is bigger and has more room.

 

considering how small your mom is I would say IS250/350 over the GS. the GS may seem too big of a car for her. Not really sure on maintenance but I would guess the IS would be cheaper then the GS but I could be wrong.

 

Give that cougar an LS!

 

My recommendation is to show both cars to your mom and explain and elaborate all the shortcomings to her first, let her decide.

 

One more unfounded (and inaccurate) stereotype. Lots of males like and drive ES models ....although, in general, they do tend to be older males. The 4th-generation ES (which included the 330) was particularly well-done, IMO, with the best interior quality of all the ES models either before or since. One (possible) fly in the ointment, though, was some quirks in the drive-by-wire system with flat-spot throttle response and the transmission-shift ECU. These were addressed with factory computer-flash updates, so make sure your car has them if necesssary.

Careful. I don't want to speak directly for him, but some guys might not appreciate their moms refered to by that term. A cougar is an older woman who pursues younger men.

 

I also agree with the notion of an ES. Honestly, an HS might also be a great choice for her.

 

Why not an RX she'll be comfortable safe and have good visibility ?

 

Most RX models come with AWD (though FWD is also available). AWD for snow is usually not needed in most parts of FL, though I agree it can also be of some benefit in rain.

 

too tall and hard to get into out of for someone 5-1.

another vote for ES

 

Not true. Most RXs allotted to the southern region, and especially Florida, are FWD.

 

My mom is 5'2" and my mother in law is 5'1" and both comment how incredibly easy it is to get in and out of the RX. I would give it a try.

 

True, but from there, they could wind up anywhere in the country as used vehicles...and a lot of used AWD models could also, That's why I said if they were going to look at an RX (and the OP seemed to indicate they were going to shop for a used vehicle), to generally hunt for a FWD one, unless they wanted AWD for the rain, where it can also be beneficial..

 

I used to work with a guy who leased an '08 GS. He could find anything to complain about, and with the GS, it was primarily the blind spot caused by the C-pillar, and the long reach to pull the door handle when closing the driver door. I tested it out the next time I was at the Lexus dealer--it was a long reach....

Get the IS.