obsessive

Has anyone switched from the IS350 to the 2016 BMW 340i?

I test drove a new 340i with the Msport and track package. I really like the car. I don't like how cramped I feel in the IS350, it felt like there was so much more room in the drivers seat and also in the back seats. I really liked the power of the 340i too. I do prefer the interior of my Lexus though, that's where the BMW was lacking in my opinion.

If I can find someone to buy my car or take over my lease, I will probably get the 340.

CarlitoIS

Never heard of the 340i? Is that a new 3 series model? I know the 320, 328, and 335. How far are you from your lease? How much is the lease on the 340i?

obsessive

The 340 took the place of the 335.

I still have a couple years left on the lease, but I don't really care for the IS350 at all.

evident

the IS350 is positioned between the BMW 328 and 340. the 340 is about 5-6K more expensive than the 350 so it would make sense that its a nicer car. comparing a newly released engine in the 340i vs the 10 year old 2GR in the Lexus is like shooting fish in a barrel, haha. Although the 2GR holds up very well still, it needs to be updated. that's the main area of advantage of the BMW over the Lexus.

davyjordi

i think you've already made up your mind, you just need someone to buyout or take over your lease.

EZZ

I found the fully loaded to be about $8k more expensive. It's a bigger car and drives like it. The steering feel isn't as connected also. The engine though is its main strength. What an ENGINE! I say do what makes you happy.

obsessive

I was really impressed with the engine, the exhaust sounded so good too. I really like my Lexus interior better, I just wish there was more room.

Lex2133

One big reason my '15 350 F-Sport gives me joy is the interior finesse and size and fit. The size just "fits" me perfectly, the bolstered seats, the distance and slant of the center console, the multilevel dash, the steering wheel.

Hard to describe in words, but a feeling 'at home', 'for me', 'mine', 'cozy', 'glove'. I just love my 3IS. period. No other car I've owned (and I've owned 8 cars for over 28 years now), made me feel like this. I thought it would be the newness or the novelty, but 8 months after I bought it, I love it even more today than in the first month or two. I spent 3 hours yesterday washing, waxing, detailing.

July-Aug of 2015, I cross-shopped, sat in and drove a 328, which did not evoke the same feeling for me as far as fit and size is concerned

metaleckz

iTrader: (9)

My brother went from 3IS 350 f sport to 435 with m package and track option. Something like that. And he loves it! Hes very happy with the switch

obsessive

Good to hear!

AMNss

I would advise you to go and check the refreshed full options GS350 or GS450H. It will cost about the same as the BMW 340 and the GS is actually a nicer car and bigger so you will not feel cramped.

obsessive

Will have to check that out. The bad thing is, my closest Lexus dealer is 90 miles away.

tea

do it. i'd always lease German, but buy Japanese

anthonys2r

iTrader: (1)

Does anyone else hate BMW's extremely inconsistent naming scheme?

ExSrAaron

I cross-shopped the 335i/235i when I originally got my IS. I was more impressed with the handling and price of the IS, so I ultimately ended up getting it. Saved a ton of money plus I've really enjoyed the car for the last 23 months. I return my lease next month and will probably check out the M2 and 340i before jumping into something new. The new B58 motor (N55 replacement) seems to be very nice, great power (see dyno sheets) still has the nice inline 6 sounds, and good gas mileage.

Personally, I think the 3 series is due for an update. I would rather move forward than backwards in that respect. I think the chassis is better on the IS, ATS, and probably the new Jaguar XE and Audi A4. I would at least recommend checking out those before you make a move.

Good luck!