Based on your reply and reference to BMW feel, have you even driven ES?!? ES is 180 degree opposite of that. Its not a performance car, it has an almost floaty ride and a very loose steering, its 3.5L V6 has way less torque (than GS/IS), you will have to slow down during turns and forget about cornering cause it has a cruiser-like suspension and too much body roll. BTW, all these comments are not negative against ES, its just a different kind of a ride where you enjoy the roominess, comfort, panoramic view, soft ride, good gas mileage, etc. If you are looking for BMW performance, IS350 (3-series comparison) or GS350 (5-series comparison) will be the answer. Just keep in mind, even IS/GS will not give you a stiff handling/steering like BMW, but will be a really good compromise between luxury and comfort. And, Lexus reliability is bar none, BMW will not even come close. Go to GS forum and read tons of post of ex-BMW drivers.

BTW, have you looked into '07 Infiniti G35? That comes closer to BMW ride-feel than IS. Tight steering, 306 hp engine, completely redesigned with a high quality leather and material inside, etc. I personally drove it and didn't like it cause the ride was too stiff, steering wheel was way too tight, and gear shifting was not as smooth. But, that is my personal opinion. Check it out yourself. You will not get the same reliability as Lexus, but it will be another option which could help you make up your mind...

 

Well I checked out both the IS and ES today.

I liked the outside of the IS, but it is about the size of a Corolla. (Is it based on the Corolla?) It drove nice, but frankly after having several BMW's it does not come close.

So I think for me since I already own a BMW when I want a sports car drive, I will opt fo the ES to pamper myself. I don't think the IS would give me the sport or the comfort, it is more a little of both.

 

Did you drive the 07 G35, not sport version, just regular G35 sedan?

 

Nope, never was a Nissan fan. And they are at the bottom for customer retention along with acura.

Lexus, BMW, MB are the top.

 

I never gave them a second thought myself or looked at anything other than MB or Lexus for that matter until problems with my former ES350. I drove the sport version of 07 G35 and was very impressed with it and they had just come in so no non-sport sedans were PDI'd for a drive.

 

I think that the SC is more sporty than the IS

 

I care to respectfully disagree . I have driven every single Lexus and most very hard and have owned multiple. In order
1. 01-05 IS 300
2. 06+ IS 250/350 sport
3. 92-99 SC 300/400
4. 06 GS 430/450h with AVS (now with the optional AAAS, I would place them right with the 2. car, those active sway bars make that much of a difference)
5. 98-05 GS 300/400/430
6. 02+ SC 430

Now that is just my opinion but I stand by it.