IS - 3rd Gen (2014-present) Discussion about the 2014+ model IS models

2018 IS350- Pros and Cons

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Old Oct 21, 2020 | 09:28 AM
  #1  
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Default 2018 IS350- Pros and Cons

Hi everyone,

Seeking advice from previous or current owners. I’m expecting great reliability out of this car but wondering if there are reasons you wouldn’t make the purchase if given the opportunity again. And negatives or things to dislike about this car?
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Old Oct 21, 2020 | 10:28 AM
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3IS in general based on my experience:

Pros
Nice seating position and seats (F Sport) and overall comfort
Good fit and finish and overall quality of materials
Good handling (with F sport package, sticky tires, and F sport pads.)
Good brakes
Generally reliable engine and transmission
Quiet, well insulated

Cons
Iffy (and potentially very expensive depending on component) electronics/infotainment/audio/Hvac/lighting reliability
Eats through tires and brakes extremely aggressively (pay to play)
Fuel thirsty (all trims)
Lacklustre performance (all trims)
Can feel lacking/outdated in terms of features when compared to rivals of similar era
Will feel even older with the 3IS.5 refresh (2021 model)
Audio sounds lacking

Overall a nice buy, just try to get newer models if possible and if something breaks like a headlight/LED module, amp etc, be prepared to buy a used one and install it yourself. otherwise you're talking $2,000+ dealer quoted repairs for what can be had for a fraction on eBay used. That's the overall game plan i would have if going for this car again.
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Old Oct 22, 2020 | 05:37 PM
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Agree with E46CT's post. I have an '18 350 F-Sport... the only things that would be 'cons' for me:
  1. The antiquated center console/infotainment system that hasn't changed or been refreshed for years
  2. 'Heavy' car compared to others in its class; just feels weighted although it does handle well
  3. Non-impressive fuel economy
Regardless, I still purchased the car knowing these things at the time so all in all, it's been worth it.
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