For almost the same cost, which one would you choose?
I know the ES350 has a V6 while the IS300 F Sport Design is a turbocharged 4-cylinder, so does that mean the V6 is better?
But why is the ES priced lower? Does it have any problems that lead to less interest?
Also, what should be a fair out-the-door price for these? I heard we should target around 10% off MSRP and then add taxes?
Thanks for any advice.
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These cars are quite different. One is a small rear-wheel-drive sports sedan while the other is a mid-sized front-wheel-drive sedan.
Let’s start with the basics. What type of driving experience are you looking for?
@Broderick
I honestly like the IS more, but the ES has a V6 for the same price. If the engines were identical, I would have chosen the IS without hesitation.
LisaMoore said:
@Broderick
I honestly like the IS more, but the ES has a V6 for the same price. If the engines were identical, I would have chosen the IS without hesitation.
I recommend the ES since if you don’t get the all-wheel-drive IS300, you miss out on the V6. Plus, with the F Sport Design package, you lose features like ventilated seats and rain-sensing wipers. I discovered that while checking the build and price options. So, for the V6 and extra features, the ES seems like the better choice unless you go for the all-wheel-drive IS300 with the F Sport II package, which adds nicer features like memory seats. But it really depends on what type of driving you prefer, since the IS and ES offer different experiences.
@Dallas
That’s a solid perspective.
Broderick said:
@Dallas
That’s a solid perspective.
Thanks a lot! I wish I could give a firsthand comparison, but I currently have expensive tastes while on a budget. My next car will definitely be some kind of Lexus eventually.
@Dallas
Any IS or GS350 all-wheel-drive from 2007 onward is great. Older ones are becoming quite affordable, even well-maintained ones with reasonable mileage. The powertrain is still competitive after 15 years, which is impressive.
@Dallas
When it comes to safety, I couldn’t find much info comparing the two. Which do you think is safer for highway speeds of 70-80 mph?
LisaMoore said:
@Dallas
When it comes to safety, I couldn’t find much info comparing the two. Which do you think is safer for highway speeds of 70-80 mph?
They should be about equal in safety. There isn’t a significant difference. Both cars are built with safety in mind.
LisaMoore said:
@Dallas
When it comes to safety, I couldn’t find much info comparing the two. Which do you think is safer for highway speeds of 70-80 mph?
I assume that the ES might be safer because of its size and build. However, I bet Lexus has good safety ratings for both models.
@Dallas
Thanks for your thoughts. Do you know the current out-the-door price for the ES350?
LisaMoore said:
@Broderick
I honestly like the IS more, but the ES has a V6 for the same price. If the engines were identical, I would have chosen the IS without hesitation.
If you can, go for the IS350 with all-wheel drive.
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Toni said:
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So we’re comparing the IS350 to the ES350 at the same price, right? Currently, the ES has a V6 while the IS is a turbo 4.
Toni said:
[this comment was removed]
So we’re comparing the IS350 to the ES350 at the same price, right? Currently, the ES has a V6 while the IS is a turbo 4.
[this comment was removed]
@Toni
I’ve heard that the turbo has reliability issues, and many critics say Lexus should have stuck to the reliable V6. Does the older design of the IS affect safety?
And what is limited slip?
LisaMoore said:
@Toni
I’ve heard that the turbo has reliability issues, and many critics say Lexus should have stuck to the reliable V6. Does the older design of the IS affect safety?
And what is limited slip?
Limited slip differential helps with handling and power distribution to the wheels.
@Brett
I’m not really into cars, so does this affect safety? Is the LSD on the IS safer at high speeds? I frequently drive on the highway at 70-80 mph.
LisaMoore said:
@Brett
I’m not really into cars, so does this affect safety? Is the LSD on the IS safer at high speeds? I frequently drive on the highway at 70-80 mph.
If you’re concerned about safety, I wouldn’t worry too much about performance features like the ones found in the IS series. The IS is more of a sporty model, while it’s not unsafe, the ES suits your needs better as it resembles the more reliable Camry.
