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Used 2008 Lexus IS 250 Sedan Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
104 reviews

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Lexus IS 250 AWD Handling Dream

Criticfilm on LEXUS, 02/22/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is an early review, I just purchased my new 2008 Lexus IS 250 AWD, Starfire Pearl. BMW 325i owner, so standards were high, researched and drove 2008 BMW 328i, Audi A4, Infiniti G35, all excellent cars, tough decision. IS 250 needs more power, but overall great handling, love styling, features great, excellent service and prestigious!

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5 out of 5 stars

Great Little Car

RV, 02/27/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

From an SUV to an IS and I don't miss a thing. The IS is a funny car that packs a good punch and its not a bad looker either.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Everything perfect but the brakes

Massimo Osti, 09/02/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My Lexus is two month old and I'm very happy about my choice. I considered the Acura TSX and the Infiniti G35 but I went for the Lexus because I liked the design and wanted the 4WD. My only complaint is about the brakes: lots of dust on the rims of the front wheels and noise when you depress the brake pedal. This latter problem is rather annoying: every time I came to a stop and then release the brake pedal to move again the front brakes make a noise. I took the car to the dealer and they lubricated all the wheels but the problem still persists. I wonder if anybody else driving this car has had same problems.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best In Class

ScottW710, 10/09/2007
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Before purchasing I drove the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C 350 Sport, Infiniti G35, Audi A4 and Acura TL-S. The C 350 was the only car in class that can hold a candle to this car in all-around characteristics. The IS 250 in the 6 speed manual, gives you the performance that you're looking for. While other cars in the class will be slightly faster, none had as nice of a feel in shifting and ride comfort at the Lexus.

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5 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive

VinDee, 01/16/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I looked at the Mercedes c300 first but opted for the IS 250 instead. I have owned the IS 250 for 2 months now and the car is fun to drive. The 250 does get good gas mileage also. Rear seat legroom is minimal. One drawback is the paint. Already chipping on the front. I've owned other cars for years before the painted started to chip.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

2008 IS 250 AWD (6A)

Steve, 01/16/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Excellent car. Really hugs the road, quick acceleration (not as peppy as the 350, but enough for a 36 year old). I was in the market for a "Certified Pre-Owned" 2006 or 2007, and ended up getting a new one for a few thousand more. Tells me they keep their resale value moreso than others I compared it to.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best Car Ever

John, 10/22/2007
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I shopped and test drove all the entry level luxury models in this category, G35, C280, 3 Series. I previously owned the Lexus SC 300 and Infinti G35 coupe, but this IS 250 is best car ever. Drive it and you wont sleep until you own one. Such a nice balance between sport styling and true lexus comfort.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great overall car, highly suggested

Ennertia.com, 11/22/2007
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

For the price of a base, it's a great overall value for a luxury vehicle. I purchased only the leather package with automatic. Handles well, lovely interior (doesn't feel like plastic) which is important for me. I take clients out in this vehicle with good overall feedback. Base sound system is decent, includes as base a 6CD changer. Previous car was a Acura 3.2TL with a premium package; only difference I've found is that the Lexus handles better, smaller and maneuvers like a small car.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

NICE!!!

Jo-el, 09/05/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I decided this car over the 3 series and A4. I'm glad I made the right choice for myself. This is a big upgrade from my last car. I had an 05 Accord. I like so many things about the car. From its looks to the interior , the handling and comfort. I have 2 kids (2 year old and 7 year old) and they fit fine with enough room. They even say its a cool car. The only downside is the acceleration and that doesn't matter much to me because I'm not racing but it still carries more then enough to be around the city. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone who is interested in getting one because the reviews helped me as well to purchase this car.

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5 out of 5 stars

Wow

TA, 01/27/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I'm not suffering a second of buyer's remorse. The car is a kick to drive, it is loaded with features, and everything about is pleasing to the senses (I find myself just touching various surfaces and marveling at how perfect they all seem). It's tempting to think of the IS as a "budget Lexus". That may have been true of the 300, but this is genuinely a luxurious car--all Lexus. I'm getting about 32mpg on the highway and mid-20s around town. Much better than the new EPA ratings.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Dablaze, 11/26/2007
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just purchased an 2008 IS 250, and I love the car. Me being 16, I love any car but this car is so fun to drive and it is very comfortable! I installed the spyder wheels and the billet grille, which i highly reccomend!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2008 IS 250 RWD

Bean Counter, 08/26/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

First of all, is a 250, not a 350. I understand there is a minimal acceleration when I purchased the vehicle. I don’t EXPECT power or complaint lack of HP. If I did want HP, I spend another 4k. Vehicle engine is smooth; hardly notice any gears shift. Take turn with barely any body roll. Handling feels light and responsive and braking are good for a 250V6. Interior design is good, does not look cheap, except for the dash board. Lots of gadget available with the vehicle options/no options. This is a compact sedan, adequate interior space unless you’re 6+ ft. then gets something bigger. Overall, 250 for luxury commuting w/ great comfort and safety.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Overall Car and Value

TS, 01/02/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Wonderful car all around. I added the HID headlights, XM radio, vent seats, and wood trim. The base models come pretty well loaded. While not a pure sports car, it has found a perfect balance between luxury and sportiness. The ride is as quiet and smooth as can be. When you test drive it, be sure to take in on some bumpy roads. You will feel the difference. I am 6'1" and still fit comfortably into the front seats. No one can fit into the back seat behind me though. The trunk, while not very big, was able to fit my ice hockey goalie equipment. I also test drove the Mercedes 300, BMW 325XI, loaded '08 Honda Accord V-6 Coupe among others. In my opinion, the best value for your money.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

"LUV IT"

Tlynn, 09/05/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my first Lexus and it's awesome. I owned a BMW 325 and planned to get another one. After test driving the Lexus IS250, I was hooked. The comfort and smooth ride beats won me over!

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4.13 out of 5 stars

IS 250 Buyer's Remorse

Kat, 03/14/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The handling on this car is great. It is very reliable and stable at high speeds. The interior is a bit small but feels and looks luxurious. The horsepower is too low - it is missing that extra kick at acceleration. The standard audio system is bad quality; my Bose system in my 96 Maxima was 100% better. The bass is very weak and listening to music became a nuisance in this car. The car makes a weird sound from the rear passenger wheel which I told was normal. Overall, the car operates a bit noisy. The IS 250 is a nice car but I feel I could have gotten a better deal for the money spent.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great car except for the Nav System

Karim, 03/23/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car a week ago, what a fun car to drive! It handled extremely well in the snow, AWD is great. I love the leather seats, smart key, radio. Paddle shifters are fun. Handles unbelievably!! However, the experience that has been awsome in everyway was dissipated when i found out that several nav system available while the car is parked become inaccessible when the car is in motion. In the name of safety according to lexus. If I were to agree that lexus can be my mother, I resent paying $2600 for a system that is literally crippled in my mind when the vehicle is motion. Save yourselves the money get the car without nav and by a $100 3rd party nav system instead.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Awesome Car!

jules8174, 03/28/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This has been a great car so far. It looks great and feels great. It doesn't make a sound when it's on. The interior is also of extreme quality which makes everyday driving an experience to look forward to! I highly recommend this car.

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5 out of 5 stars

Slick... but Still a Lexus

fleetfoot, 10/20/2007
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Had an Audi that was about to bite the dust - thing was an absolute money pit. Fortunately, our other "family" car was a Lexus RX and we've had nothing but a stellar Lexus ownership experience, so when I decided to buy another AWD car, the IS 250 AWD had to be on the list. The car has not disappointed. Handles beautifully, looks good, plush inside and best of all it's a Lexus, so you know build quality and ownership experience will be top notch. Get the nav package (w/Bluetooth and rearview camera) - worth every penny.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Bang for the buck

Tony, 09/03/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The overall design is a major style improvement from the previous model; now it looks more like a luxury vehicle. I think it's a great car for the money spent. People mistake this car as a sports vehicle; it's not. Consider it more of a luxury commuter. The car has lackluster performance but it is sacrificed for fuel economy. I have no regrets.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

2008 IS 250

Ibycus, 11/12/2007
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love everything about this car. The base model is loaded and I only upgraded the wheels, headlights and added a spoiler. I purchased the Matador Red and it's just sexy. I look forward to my drive to work now!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Completely Satisfied

Jess, 01/21/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I test drove this car expecting to not be impressed and I was completely wrong. It looks great, feels great, is very luxurious, and has a lot more pick- up speed than the 250 suggests. I couldn't believe what the base model came with. The comperable BMW didn't even have leather and you had to pay a significant amount more for basic features.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Awesome vehicle!

EJ, 12/20/2007
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Before this purchase, I was also researching the Acura TSX. The Lexus got me hooked. Great ride, good power, and awesome styling. There is nothing on the road that looks like it! A lot of standard features including high ticket safety items that are optional on other makes.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great car for the money

carfreak, 03/28/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just purchased by IS 250 two days ago and I love it. I traded an 07 Acura TL, but I drove the Mercedes C300, Audi A4 and VW Fahrenheit GLI. Glad I chose the IS 250 even though the horsepower is lacking and doesn't compare to the TL I had. I got an excellent deal on this car and the base model is loaded with everything I needed. I did get one with HID, 18" tires and upgraded rims and a few other items. Drive it and you'll want one for sure!

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5 out of 5 stars

Great Choice

Brent, 04/04/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had this car for 1 month and it's been a blast to drive. I really like the interior and exterior styling and it has a very smooth ride to it. I looked at the G-35 and BMW 325 but you get more for the dollar on the lexus IS 250. Never really paid attention to Lexus before, but this is a great quality car. 31.7 MPG highway and 26 mixed. A 15 min test drive is not enough as I had to go back to drive it again. It took me several days to get used to driving this car.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

I love it

Jen, 04/10/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Purchased this car because I needed an AWD vehicle but did not want an SUV. Test drove the Audi A4 but went with the Lexus b/c of reliability. This car is fun to drive and has made my commute more enjoyable. It needs more power. In the Power mode, it's a dream but in regular mode, it's quite sluggish. The ride itself is smooth and the interior is comfortable. I'm getting used to the brakes - I'm used to pressing the brake and coming to an immediate standstill, the brakes on the Lexus tend to "glide" a little more. The back seat is small but my 2 kids (age 9 and 3) don't seem to mind. Handles like a dream. Fuel economy is great. I love it!

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5 out of 5 stars

Very Classy Car! Love it.

Valerie, 11/14/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased the IS 250 in February with 8 miles on it. I love it so much. The only thing that i would love more about this car, is if the thermostat were hotter and the fan blew as good as the air conditioner. Other than it is wonderful, and i would recommend this car to anyone.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Nice!!

lji, 04/17/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought the car a week and a half ago and really like what the car has to offer. Test drove a 335i sedan, infiniti g37, and an acura tl and tl type s. Went with the Lexus due to interior quality and richness and value compared to the bimmer. Coming from an Acura TL, the learning curve on using the nav system is huge. Toyota (Lexus) can learn quite a bit from how Honda (Acura) has implemented their nav interface. Drives like a charm, although I wish the steering would tighten up a bit at highway speeds. It would be nice to deactivate VSC and TCS while driving instead of bringing the car to a stop first. There is definitely room for improvement on the car. Fix the nav operation, add mem seats!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Nick, 03/24/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Had this car going on a month. Great car. Test drove the G35 and c300. Picked the IS 250 because of Lexus reliability and looks.

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4 out of 5 stars

Overall Happy Customer

Trinh, 10/25/2009
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love the IS250 Sport! It has a great look, sporty yet comfortable. Lots a cool features and fun to drive. It's an overall excellent car in its class.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Very good - but not great

bringbackmalcolm, 04/23/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I traded in a 2005 Acura TL for the Lexus. I feel like I've from cream to half&half. Don't get me wrong, this is a very good car, and it was the AWD at a reasonable cost that sold me. The interior is beautifully well crafted, but not as ergonomically friendly as the Acura. You feel more road irregularities, but if were expecting not to you bought the wrong car. My biggist gripe (and I hate to keep comparing the TL) is the Manual/Sport shift. Nowhere near as seamless as the Acura. Even worse is when you move your shifter over into that mode, the default gear is 4th - rather than the gear you were in. Pretty abrupt if your in 6th, which this car has you in most of the time.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Sporty, stylish and fun!

Joe, 12/18/2009
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my IS for just over a year now and have driven over 23k miles. I believe this car to be well designed and of great quality. The styling and sleek look stand above all cars in its class and has head turning qualities. Mileage is OK. Comfort while driving is great. Back seat's a little tight for adults. Otherwise, this car is HOT!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

... so far, so good!

IS 4 KC, 04/27/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just bought my IS250 1 week ago and so far it's been great! I have heard some complaints on how the initial pick up is lagging some, but I have yet to feel inadequate upon "take off". It's a smooth ride and really fun to drive. The navigation system takes a little getting used to-- it's really just a matter of getting the lingo down. I have the tan interior, which tends to get dirty rather quickly, but the perma-plate guard that they put on seems to be keeping the dirt off. The only thing I can complain about is the slightly small back seat (but hey, i'm not sitting in the back!!)and the blind spots. Other than that, I love it!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

WOW

Leo C, 11/18/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my first Lexus and I upgraded from a car that is no longer available. I was first attracted to the car when I drove a friend of mine's car. Overall this is a great car. I agree that there are more powerful cars out there, but I wanted better gas mileage and less power. If more power is needed then the IS 350 is available. On the vehicle there is a POWER switch that changes the shift differential with a notable power increase. If you are looking, you may want to try this and save your self $4K.

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome Car

NJ, 05/01/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car about 5 days ago after deciding to trade in my 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe due to rising gas prices. I agree with several other peoples posts in regards to test driving this car just wasn't enough. After 5 days of owning this car I can honestly say that it is AWESOME. I commute in the Bay Area everyday and this car is by far the best I could have bought. The gas mileage is great, the luxury features are wonderful and the car looks/drives like a dream! Please keep in mind that I came from a 6,000lb SUV to this small Lexus sedan. I was very worried about the drastic change in vehicles and that I wouln't like being in a sedan. I have 0 buyers remorse and don't miss my SUV at all.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great car

caldad, 04/06/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was very impressed with the drivability of this car compared to the BMW and I'm looking forward to lower maintenance costs than my BMW or Audi. Comfy ride yet still good road feel so I know what's going on. Nice and quiet. Smooth transmission even with performance driving. Paddle shifters are convenient and give confidence when performance driving. Heated and cooled seats are very nice.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Lexus Entry Compact Vehicle

speed_Demo, 11/18/2009
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The vehicle suspension is decent, comfortable on road. Seats are nice and huggy, takes a little while to adjust to each driver position. Great gas mileage, low maintenance cost, very reliable, decent HP for the engine size. Interior well design, clean look. Small leg room for back seats. I highly recommend this vehicle for great gas mileage with light foot. Compact vehicle for tight space parking. Easy maintenance, you can do yourself (air & cabin, oil). Competitive price.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent and fun car!

Jason, 05/17/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've read all of the reviews for this car on this website and where some I thought were very helpful, there were those that questioned things like the lack of horsepower, sound system, and build quality. For an entry level luxury car and a terrific base price, you can't get a better deal. The ride is tight with the Sport package but this is what I wanted in a sport compact. The power was surprisingly peppy, fun, and the growl at times was a nice tease that indicated there's still that hint of energy and adrenaline waiting to be let out. When needed, the car goes and in the cabin, the comfort conveniences are second to none. Excellent options and an excellent experience. Very satisfied!

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4 out of 5 stars

Cheap Luxury

EJ, 03/17/2010
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Overall good entry level luxury car. Have had to replace transmission (Manual) once under warranty as well as ongoing trips to the dealer to resolve interior trim panel rattling and cracking noises which are as of now solved. Great gas mileage, good engine, could use more power to be competitive with other makes. Cramped rear seat is a drawback

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Poor Navigation

Jeffrey, 05/13/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Very nice & refined car. AWD model accelerates fine. Very nicely finished interior. The rear seat is tight, but I knew this when I made the purchase. It was hard to find a model with the Luxury Package. Would not have purchased the car without that package. This package is what makes a Lexus a "Lexus". On the other hand the navigation system is not acceptable. A passenger cannot program the system while the car is in motion, does not announce street names, is very complicated to program. Do not waste your money on this inferior system. Instead purchase a $300.00 portable navigation system. They are easy to program, have "Text to speech", and have traffic updates.

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5 out of 5 stars

Happy to Own!

Marcia, 11/30/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This was an upgrade from a 95 Dodge Neon, so it didn't take much to make me happy. Very happy driving my new car!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

More fun than a Beemer.

KBoucher, 11/30/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I drove almost every comparable car over the two months prior to purchasing the Lexus IS 250 RWD with the 6 speed manual. My last few vehicles had 300 hp (Infiniti and BMW) but putting it to the pavement was not as much fun as with the Lexus 2.5L V6 6M. All I can say is that with the 6 speed manual transmission, the car is actually a well balanced fun car to drive. I drove a few automatics and didn't get the same feeling in the car. Also, I have upgraded lowering springs, cold air intake, catback exhaust, short throw shifter, 19 inch IS-F rims, and added a spoiler. The added power and greatly improved exhaust sound makes the car truly more fun than the BMW 335i or Infiniti G35

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Good car

Ming, 12/31/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It's a very nice car. Lots a cool features. Power is ok, but then again, my other car is 270hp Toyota. I get a lot of heads turned my way. The exterior design is just awesome. With the combination of a black color, it just looks so intimidating.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Very frugal all wheel drive

eternity road, 01/04/2010
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Very smart looking comfortable and luxurious. The all wheel drive is great for winter driving. My overall gas mileage is 24 mpg, very good for an all wheel drive. Only drawback is need for premium fuel. For the price I paid I think this car is a very good value. Thousands less than competing BMWs with all wheel drive. The lights are not that good for night driving. Reliability is superb! Trunk is small so you have to pack your luggage skillfully for any extended trip.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Recommended

XSam, 11/21/2008
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had many sporty vehicles in the past. This is an excellent bottom-line & all-around sedan. Good looks, comfort, sport, safety, fuel economy.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car, Best in Class.

Len, 01/24/2009
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

A wonderful car, equal or better than all its German competition. A pleasure to drive. My choice after testing new BMW 330i, Audi A4, Mercedes 280c. Now after owning for one year I know I made the right choice. Have not even visited the dealer since purchasing in Feb 2008. Very highly recommended car. Weak points: GPS lacks features like Garmin and TomTom ability to download POIs and traffic/speed camera locations. Even with the expensive GPS I still need to use my Garmin.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

End of my lease, going to miss "lexi"

skyrunr, 10/08/2010
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just love this car and my wife gets jealous when I start talking about "Lexi." I am tall so the back seat sacrifice was justified. Two large dogs have no complaints. Poor rear visibility, but the nice big mirrors help. I get 24mpg with spirited driving and 90% manual shifting. I rarely use the paddles and the shift restrictions are a hair too restrictive. If you want 0-60 times get a motorcycle or theme park. ;) However, this car was purely made for on/off ramps and windy back roads. I also really like that I can disable VSC and TRAC by holding a button (must be stopped.) Wish they had a real wagon version as we now have children. Venza and RX350 can't fit large dogs in back.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Former Beemer has seen the light

Rob, 11/10/2010
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had a few nice cars in my day and this one is my favorite. Grew up with Mercedes and had a few BMW's but this car by far is much more reliable and better overall in the same class. Spent about 10k less than my BMW 325i and it's a much better car even at BMW's price.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

After 1 Year

JacquesB, 02/14/2009
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love this car!! It handles excellent and the quality is very high. I have hit 37 mpg on the freeway just last week after filling up and thats with 6200 miles on the car. I do take care of my vehicles and maintain the oil changes. I do not race the car as it is only a 2.5L V-6 with 204 bhp. So, you out there that own one knows exactly what I'm speaking of. The car is not for racing. But it does hold its value in the market. Over-all, I give the car a 9 out of 10.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Good for me

3dog, 02/18/2011
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had this car since November of 07 (it's an 08). I, too, had problems with potholes the winter of 07-08 - sidewall damage on 2 tires which had to be replaced with less than 5000 miles on them. I promptly got a set of rims one size smaller with snow tires that were NOT low profile and I've had no problem since. The car handles great in the snow, pulling through the piles of snow our village plows against the end of the driveway. The ride is a little jittery on the expressway, sometimes seeming to find a harmonic convergence with the ridges on the road, but it is comfortable and quiet. I average 25 mpg on my daily drive, up to 31 mpg on long trips, slightly less with the snow tires.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Needs more power

tim, 02/26/2009
2008 Lexus IS 250 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The car is a luxury cruiser more than a sports sedan. to me it just doesn't compare to anything European unfortunately. The technology and features however are great and it is definitely an extremely comfortable car. I recommend using the sportshift mode, the power mode and turning off traction to get the most fun out of this vehicle. If I had to choose again I'd save a little longer and get the 350 if I had the choice.

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