Hey, I’m turning 17 soon and looking to buy my first car this summer. My budget is $18,000 or less, and I really like Toyota. I’m stuck choosing between a 2018+ Camry SE or a 2015+ Lexus IS200t/IS250. I’ve seen the Lexus models on marketplace for under $18,000 and wondering if it’s better to buy one from a private seller rather than a Camry from a dealership. I also prefer the IS200t over the IS250 because of fuel economy, but I’m not sure if that’s a bad idea. My twin and I will split the cost of insurance and gas, and we make around $1,000 a month together. Would this work, or am I making a mistake? Any advice would help.
Your insurance will probably cost as much as a car payment. Sit down with your brother and talk it over, then check with an insurance agent before buying. The Camry will be easier and cheaper to maintain, while the Lexus has better quality but higher costs. Drive carefully, and good luck.
@Alden
Yeah, I don’t drive recklessly, but insurance is probably going to be the deciding factor. I’ll check on that first.
Insurance is going to be the biggest factor. Call around for quotes and go with the cheaper option.
Bailey said:
Insurance is going to be the biggest factor. Call around for quotes and go with the cheaper option.
Thanks bro, I’ll do that.
At 17, I’d go for a cheaper used car instead of spending the full budget. A well-maintained older Camry or Lexus ES/IS/GS would be better. If you buy from a private seller instead of a dealer, you might negotiate a lower price. Stay away from salvage or rebuilt titles. Also, making $1,000 a month might not be enough when you factor in gas, maintenance, registration, and repairs. Think long-term before making the decision.
@Valen
Yeah, a $5,000 daily driver makes more sense. The rest could be saved or invested instead of being tied up in car expenses.
An IS might not be the best first car. Insurance will be expensive. If you’re spending $18,000, you might be better off getting a certified used car from a dealership because of the warranties. If you go for a cheaper used Camry or Avalon, you’ll save money and avoid unexpected repairs. Also, being 17, you probably have other expenses coming up, like college. A reliable car with low costs is the way to go.
@AlexToyotaEnthusiast
Exactly. A Corolla would be a smart choice. Spend your money on experiences, not a car that depreciates.
Toyota Avalon or Lexus ES would be a better choice.
Zan said:
Toyota Avalon or Lexus ES would be a better choice.
Yep, those are solid choices.
Honestly, you and your brother don’t make enough for this to be a good idea, even if you’re living at home.
A Lexus will be nicer to drive and have more features, but repairs and maintenance will cost more. It’s still considered a luxury brand.
Go with a Toyota. Lexus maintenance and parts are expensive, and many Lexus models require premium gas. A Corolla, Matrix, or Camry would be a better fit for your budget.
Torrance said:
Go with a Toyota. Lexus maintenance and parts are expensive, and many Lexus models require premium gas. A Corolla, Matrix, or Camry would be a better fit for your budget.
Wait, so does the 3.5 V6 Toyota engine in the Lexus require premium gas?
@Blaise
In Toyota models, the 3.5 V6 runs on regular gas. In most Lexus models, premium fuel is required. The RX350 might be an exception.
Torrance said:
@Blaise
In Toyota models, the 3.5 V6 runs on regular gas. In most Lexus models, premium fuel is required. The RX350 might be an exception.
So the Lexus version of the engine is different?
@Blaise
Same base engine but different tuning. Lexus adjusts compression, cam profiles, and timing for more power, which is why premium gas is needed.
Torrance said:
@Blaise
Same base engine but different tuning. Lexus adjusts compression, cam profiles, and timing for more power, which is why premium gas is needed.
Makes sense. I’ll have to test drive one and see how it feels.
My twin and I did the same thing at your age. We got an older Camry and later upgraded to a Cherokee. The Camry was great—better gas mileage, cheaper insurance, front-wheel drive for bad weather, and more space. You won’t go broke on maintenance or fuel. If you’re sharing a car, practicality matters more than luxury. Hope that helps.