cbus

Hello everyone,

New member from Columbus here. I've been looking into a new car for a few weeks, and my main two candidates have been a 2013-14 BMW 328 X Drive and a 2014-16 Lexus IS. I am coming from a 2016 Acura ILX that I am beginning to regret purchasing, hence the current search. I have now driven the IS250 AWD, IS300 AWD, and the IS200t. For me, I'm thinking I will go with an L/Certified IS200t as soon as one becomes available at Germain Lexus of Easton here in Columbus. The 250 was smooth but slow (noticeably slower than my ILX), and the 300 is notably faster. However, I think the 200t strikes the best combination of acceleration and fuel economy. Not too concerned about snow performance; Columbus winters are fairly mild (I grew up in Buffalo) and it isn't anything some sand bags and snow tires can't take care of, worst case.

Looking forward to posting about my new car here soon.

39RN

What are the chances this is the cbus I know with the 242LS?

cbus

Zero I'm afraid. Not even sure what 242LS is referring to haha...Google is showing a boat.

39RN

Worth a shot. There is a member that I talk to on a Yamaha boat forum, from columbus, with the same user name! Good luck in your search. I'm sure plenty will chime in.

LeapFrog

In snow country, get an IS350 AWD. Spend a bit more now but keep the car longer - which will be no problem with a Lexus. That's what I would do.

link13

Hi to you in Columbus. My cousin lives in Pickerington and I know the area a little but. I sort of know what you mean by mild winters too. The IS250 is, in fact, smooth but slow. I used to have one and I liked the car overall, but those two comments apply. I think you will like the BMW 328 X drive the best. I have not driven an IS200T, but turbo lag is a major complaint that I have been reading. I have an IS350 FSPORT now and it is thirsty at the gas pump. It is pretty quick and lots of fun to drive. I love it. I love every single thing about it. If you are concerned about fuel economy, an IS350 is maybe not the right car for you.

cbus

I did drive a 328 X Drive actually. The transmission and interior quality worried me a lot. Hesitant shifts (why? maybe I had it in eco mode or something) and LOTS of panel/dash rattle over bumps in the highway. Unacceptable for a car less than three years old.

jkonquer

I had several BMW's and I would never go back. They are great lease car but every single one of them have major problems.

I would also look into Audi A4, they are priced between is200t and is350.

lexi90

I would test drive both models - IS200T and IS300. Make sure that you know which one is the right one! That way, you won't have regrets! Good luck!

cbus

Well...just got rear-ended in the ILX by someone in an Impreza. About 0.4mi from my house. Put things on hold for a while...

goldengame

Oh no! Hopefully you and your passengers are alright!

cbus

Thank you for your concern. Fortunately, it was just me in the car. The Columbus police found the other driver 100% at fault, so that helps tremendously. I also have free rental coverage through my insurance, so that base is covered.

The insurance adjuster found unibody damage in addition to the bumper beam, exhaust, and bumper cover/mounts being damaged. I bet we're looking at nearly $4K in repairs here.

Definitely filing a diminished value claim. Resale on this car just tanked.

flexspace

iTrader: (2)

Sounds like a prime time to trade in the car once it's repaired for something you want.

cbus

But I'd get thousands less for it than I would have 24 hours ago. The stigma surrounding repaired vehicles is too real.

brendanf

Which is why you sue for the diminished value.