So I've read the differences in the years and I've been searching for the 08 IS350 to no avail. They either have too many miles or I don't like the color (silver ) but also 08's seem to be rare here in Washington. Do you think I should expand my search to 07's or just wait for an 08? Is the change how the steering feels a big factor? I haven't test drove an 07 so I don't know what people mean about the steering being a little heavier in the 08. I might just be desperate to get into an IS so if you guys can help me out with your guy's opinions that would be great thanks!

 

Why are dead set on 08 vs. 07?

 

Is there really much of a difference from 06-08? Look for an IS with all the toys (options), whether it be an 07 or 08.

 

I'm not sure what the differances are between 07 and 08 other than the wheel color but I have an 07 and I love it. I didn't want an 06 because I didn't want to have to do the pedal dance to turn off tc but 07+ was fair game.

 

I was wondering about the steering change in 08? Was it really noticeable?

 

07' 08' are more similar to each other than 06'

 

yea only the wheels have that diff finish which is a moot point because you can change the wheels anyway. Just get an 07 if u find out, or even an 06 if its a good deal

 

I have an 08 and absolutely love it. It is, by far, the best car I have own. But is also my first new care in the past 23 years LOL. Always bought used. I don't know anything about the steering difference between the 07 and the 08. I did installed a steering dampner along with the flat bottom steering wheel and love it. I say if your heart is set for an 08 then wait for the 08. Otherwise, you might not be fully satisfied.

 

What is the pedal dance for tc ?

 

the only other difference between 07 and 08 is that in the 08 they added the coin holder :-p

 

There were several changes 07->08 actually

coin holder
scuff plate illumination changed from blue to white (improvement IMHO)
wheel color changed to liquid graphite (improvement as well)
front seatbacks changed for more rear legrooms
improved steering feel


Call it bias, but I still consider 08 the best year for the 2IS... I've found nearly everything they did visually since to ugly up the car... (the mirror turn signals, the lobster claw wheels, the tail changes, dropping AFS, cashmere->ecru, etc)

Functionally there's been all of 2 (to me worthwhile) improvements since 08 though:
Nav with features from this century added in 2010 models (realtime traffic, ipod interface, A2DP profile, etc)... I actually special ordered to avoid nav on my 08 because of how antiquated the system was before this change

Relocation of aux/power jack in center console to not require 90 degree bends to use (fixed with $5 in radio shack parts, but an improvement nevertheless)

 

On the 06's you have to do a "dance" with the pedals to fully disable the traction control. With the 07+ you just have to hold down the button for about 10 seconds to disable it. Minor but if you like to have traction control off its a huge time/frustration saver.

 

Coin holder? I've had some 09+ IS250 loaners and never noticed this... where exactly is it located?

 

You got me convinced

 

I was in the same boat as you--looking for an 08 with low miles but having a hard time finding just what we wanted (had to be black on black). I also found the 09 upgrades to be less visually attractive (especially the wheels). After one year of looking, I finally found the perfect 08--mint condition with only 4,399 miles. To me it was worth the wait, but then again I was in no hurry. I do wish the NAV had better ipod integration--thinking about a VAIStech solution of some sort. Good luck with your decision.