I'm looking to purchase an IS350 and wish to see what years will likely work best. A test drive of a 2014 IS350 AWD F-sport showed it had great power and handling, but I'd prefer something used. A 2011 ES350 didn't have the power or handling wanted. Finding any IS350 in my area might take some effort, so I'm hoping you can help me narrow down what to find in advance.

Would any IS350 from 2006 to 2013 likely have power and handling comparable to the 2014? From reading the buyer's guide, do I need to look for one with the sport package or F-sport package?

thanks,
Bryan

 

All IS350's have the same engine and transmission, except for the addition of an 8 speed automatic in 2014. Really its up to you, the styling is very different for 2014 models compared to the second generation IS (06-13). All years are very reliable, although I would personally shy away from 2006 models because they were the first model year and had a few unique issues.

Handling wise, the 2014 models are supposed to be better, but the second generation models aren't bad by any means. I would test drive one to see if you like how it rides and handles. 2008 and up models benefited from better steering feel due to power steering ecu changes.

Good luck on your hunt!

 

I've bought a 2013 IS350 last June (brand new) and actually had a decision between the 14' vs the 13'. I decided on the 13' because I preferred the looks but from what I've been reading the 14' does handle a lot better but for a daily driver the 13' is more than good enough for me.

Other things I've read about the differences is that the 14' has a cheaper interior and is slightly slower than the 13' but the new dashboard adopted from the LFA inspired speedometer is very nice and has the buttery smooth 8 speed transmission.

Researching more, it looks like the 06-13 models with the sway bar set + coil overs upgrades do make a significant improvement in the handling department but everyone who test drove a 14' model does say that it still handles much better.

I never took the 14' for a test drive so I don't know what I"m missing out on but I do really love the looks of the 13' as to the 14'. At least I have something to look forward to in the near future (going to upgrade to the f-sport sway bar set) and distant future (rc or rc-f or whatever equivalent when I next upgrade).

 

You'd have to test drive them both. I'm assuming newer = better, but the 06-12 models are really good so I'm not sure you'd be missing out on much other than a redesign. Sport package would be a plus, it comes more equipped. But you'll likely end up changing the intake, wheels, suspension, exhaust, anyways, so don't let it be a deterrent if it's not. Just make sure it has the features you want like navigation, HID headlights, etc. And I'd look for 2011+ if you can afford it. Chances are they might still be under warranty and you get the cool LED headlights......

 

Ohhh fun... with what seems to be a pretty open budget I'd say just make sure u get all the features you truly want. Used ISF sounds like it will make you happy. Keep an eye on classifieds here they are usually well kept with some threads on a little history. Good luck!

 

Thanks to everyone for great information. I found a 2008 IS350 with 117,000 on it to look at Thursday. That's a bit higher mileage than I hoped, but it's had one owner and looks like it's had good care. I'll review the 2IS FAQ and try to have my local mechanic review it as well.

 

Hope the purchase goes through for you. The IS350 is a great all around luxury sport sedan.

 

I like my 06 IS350 only had to replace a cam sensor. Completely modded out! Cam sensor $80 OEM.

 

hope you had got what you want