I was very satisfied initally with the performance of the AWD IS250 having come from an IS300 but after my fiance driving the car before we bought it she was not. We test drove a CPO IS350 RWD and she immediately said that we were only getting a new IS if it was the IS350 due to the added power and better braking response. I am glad that she did make this decision because I would not have been happy with the IS250 AWD.

 

I am looking into the IS 250 RWD, IS 350 RWD, OR THE ES 350 (2013 preferably)

I do have reliable transportation, so the timing is only the matter and of course which one I will be getting more for my buck.

 

^
No, not the ES!!! FWD!!

 

Why not the ES? LOL

 

Eh, I think the 250 vs 350 debate isn't fairly represented in this forum because it's a community of people who like to mod their cars and drive fast. Speed/power is much more important here than it is in the general population. For a lot of people the 250 is still plenty powerful. I'm coming from a '99 Corolla, so I'm already getting a huge performance boost, and I don't personally think the extra HP is worth the ~$6000 + 10% extra in gas.

I'd use that extra power very rarely. I have no issues getting up to speed on the freeway, passing people at 80+, or just plain having fun with the car. I'm a relatively aggressive driver (though probably below average for this forum) and I've never felt like the car is "pokey" as others on this forum have claimed.

Would it be nice to have the extra power? Of course. And I can see how it would be tough to downgrade if you've previously driven a faster car. But I've never felt like I needed it and I still don't think it'd be worth the extra money. But of course money and utility are relative, and if speed is important you should obviously get the 250. I just wanted to provide an opposing viewpoint to the majority opinion.

 

I respect this answer, but what about getting a ES 350 instead of an IS 250?

 

Totally different cars to me... the ES handles like a boat... and not the kind that handles well.

But it's roomier, more powerful, and still gets decent mileage. Sadly it drives the wrong pair of wheels.

 

sgmlexus,

Kurtz, pretty much explained it in more detial. It is a completely different feeling and if you're looking for a sporty car feel the ES would not be the ideal car. I've driven loaner ES sometimes when the dealer has my IS, it is not the same; but it drives well.

If you purchase the ES without trying, you might just regret it.

 

By the way, OP - have you even test driven any of these cars? A lot of your questions would be answered immediately upon driving each of the 250, 350, and ES. This would also help you focus your questions on what you're truly conflicted about.

 

I didn't feel that, however there was a difference when driving the two.

You're right, I am looking for more sportier... IS might be a better option.

Calvin, yes I have. I just wanted to gain the perspective of owners and see their thoughts... But, you're right once I drove the cars I could tell an immediate difference.