Used 2009 Lexus IS 250 Consumer Reviews
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Good but not Great
I've owned this car since it first came out. Picked it up at the end of December 2005. The interior looks and feels great (but it's still not Audi in terms of physical feel). The seats look great and feel soft to the touch. However, after more than 45 minutes, they are so soft that your rear begins to ache as you can somewhat feel the metal platform underneath. They definitely need to take some cues from Germany. Nav system is very easy to learn and use, but like many others, you can't use it while moving. Interior lighting with LED accents is still state of the art.
Very practical
This is not my type of car, but I must say it's great for a luxury sedan. To start off with some negative points, it lacks on acceleration and power, rear legroom can be a problem, and the steering is a little too light. What I liked about it is the electronic gizmos and its great styling inside and out. It also has a good fuel economy. And it seems like I find out about a new hidden feature everyday.
- Base SedanMSRP: $4,50049 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $9,490114 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $5,499138 mi away
Sweet deal
I can't say I've ever owned a BMW or Audi (though I have driven them), so take note. I can say, however, that I love the IS 250 AWD. Looks great on the inside and the outside and drives well too. It may not be the 500HP BMW M5, but it has zip and the handling is phenomenal. The fuel economy is a bit on the low side, at about 22MPG for my driving. In extended highway driving (even avg. 90MPH) I've gotten the avg. up to 27.5mpg, so I think that the 26MPG # is a bit low. No complaints so far... except that it's too damn much fun to drive.
Hot fire.
I just got this car as a graduation present and it is amazing. I used to drive a New Beetle so i'm used to smaller cars. This is the perfect size, has amazing handling, and the GPS/nav is worth every penny.
Lexus Quality
We have only owned our IS 250 AWD for a few weeks and we love it! Smooth ride, superb styling inside and out, plenty enough horsepower, outstanding sound system, and not to forget, Lexus service... Initially we were concerned with the tight back seat; however, it is more than enough space to accommodate our little one around town. You will definitely get noticed on the road when riding around in this sporty sedan!
Class that the others do not have
When I decided to purchase a pre-owned car I was looking at the class above the IS 250. I was looking at the Lexus gs, BMW 5 and audi a6. When my sales rep showed me the is 250 I fell in love with the way it looked. It has class that none of the others has. I traded in my 3 and after 27 days driving this car you can not compare the two. IS 250 is a perfect blend of fun and comfort...the BMW was fun only.
All Show No Go
Test drove the car right after I test drove a BMW 328 so I knew what I was getting myself into when I leased it. The ride, luxury, sound system, quality, and amenities are all Lexus. The get up and go is all Corolla. The interior and exterior are extremely sharp. The luxurious interior and incredible audio system will help you feel better about the slow ride from 0- 60.
Awesome
Superb handling, awesome looks. What more could I ask for? My only complaint is the... wait, I don't have any!
Yes and No
Well, at first it was all YES. The car design is awesome, very sporty. The interior is excellent, love the leather. After having this for exactly a year now, I am looking for another vehicle. Yes the car is nice and No it's not a practical car. I was used to the VW Jetta TDI, I miss the 45+ mpg. Great car, I just need something that fits me.
great car
This is a good car, although a bit underpowered compare to other competitions ( Acura TL/Infiniti G35 ) the design of the interior/exterior is high quality, handles great, very smooth and quiet. Back seat is a bit small but i have no problem fitting 2 regular adults in the back. Overall excellent car for daily commute, very comfortable and smooth ride.
Great used car
I've had my Is250 for 3 years now and in that time I've put 35000 miles on it. In that time I've had to replace the alternator and my ac just recently quit working woth 124000 miles on it. Car still looks new and I get compliments on it almost daily. Matador Red with Cashmere leather. It has the X package and Mark Levinson sound system. It's tough as nails and I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a reliable car that isn't hard to look at.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
More Than I Expected
Family member already has an ES, so Lexus was on the list. But never expected to get so much for so little. Matador Red Mica with Beige interior (upgraded with perforated leather, heat/cool seats/woodgrain finish) stands out in a crowd. Car has a strong mix of sensual looks combined with solid performance and unmistakable luxury inside and out. A solid performer for a daily driver and certainly worth the money. Better looking than BMW, better performance than Mercedes, hands down winner over Acura. Looked at every other car but this one. Have not regretted this decision one bit.
Love it!!
My first Lexus was the 2000 RX 300 AWD SUV, my 2nd was the one I traded for this IS, it was a 2006 RX 330. It was a lengthy decision process for me to figure out if I was ready to leave my love of SUVs. I made the right decision! I love this car! I'm saving a load of money due to it's great gas mileage! This car is the most fun to drive out of every single car I've ever driven.
My New IS.
So I finally got my IS. I was looking into getting a new car but was really stock on which car I should get. I test drove the Audi A4, BMW 3 (4 door) and also the Infiniti G35s. Honestly, they are all pretty close in all areas. Got a loaded 250 with nav, Bluetooth, back camera heated seats and all for well under 400! 380!
IS 250 AWD
I just bought this car. Styling, leather seats, radio, all creature comforts are great. Do not buy this car if you do not like the ride and feel of low profile tires. The ride is bumpy on the highway, and I can feel every uneven road surface and pothole . I'm very disappointed with my purchase. A 10 - 15 minute test drive was not enough time to get the true feel of this car.
Nice Ride
Bought my fully loaded Lexus IS250 with Xpack a few days ago. The driving characteristics of this car are wonderful. The same level of quality, comfort, and technology you would expect from Lexus with the added "pop" of a sportier car. I evaluated this car and a BMW 3-series and this won out easily - quality, ride, and efficiency. The BMW has better engine sound but you can add F-accessories to the IS if you really need the sound. Handling is better on the IS. Fuel economy is wonderful in the 25 range which is excellent for a spank'n new car and fairly aggressive driving. Smokey Granite Ext and Light Grey Int is a sharp look. I love the car will drive it for year
Well pleased
So pleased with my car. Sleek, sharp eye catcher! I keep her clean, no rain hits my baby. I love the design, the metallic paint is awesome and there is a ECT button you hit if you want more speed and power. Driving on the interstate is great. Quiet cabin, Mark Levinson stereo system.
Tight Car
The IS 250 handles tight around corners, accelerates great on highway. A bit of a delay from a stop, but kicks in real nice, with a sweet hum. The nav got some bad reviews, but I think its great. If you get the nav, take advantage and learn the voice commands! Interior is top quality. Love the leather (a/c seats), and how the dash isn't curved out. It's flat so front has good leg room. Saw some complaints about rear seat room. If you plan on ppl sitting in the back a lot, then you probably need a mini-van! Back seats are actually comfortable, but small with leg room. The exterior is the best! Lines are smooth where they should be and hard to give distinct Lexus style. Front is mean $ stylish!
Sexy lexy
Smooth ride, very mature looking car. Factory Body kit adds a nice touch to it, Get the factory xm tuner box if yours doesnt have it for a clean and invisible footprint. It interfaces with the touch screen. All the wires are waiting for it! Save yourself the $900 installation cost if you are someone who isn't afraid of d.i.y and the plastic christmas tree panel clips :) Uses premium gas, but not a guzzler.
Navigation & Tires
We leased our IS250AWD in December 2008. The navigation system is superb, we prefer it over the navigation in our Acura TSX because it signals a beep tone when turn a is approached so there's no confusion. One significant drawback for this model are the Low- Profile tires.We live in the Northeast in a larger City where pot-holes are common. In the first seven weeks we had to replace three tires due to bubbles on their side (irreparable damage, not under warranty). We estimate that over a three year lease period we replaced ca. a dozen tires on this model. Low profile tires might be suitable for a smooth rural road in the south but are not suitable for towns like Boston, N.Y. or Philly.
Big Disappointment!
My wife and I have been leasing an IS250 for 2 years. It is very hard for me to decide where to start my review of this car since it has been the worst car I have ever experienced. We fell for the good sporty looks and the large screen navigation system it has. Unfortunately the joy ended after a few days of driving it on the road in real life. Let me tell you, this car has the worst ride you can imagine. You feel every pebble on the road. After a long ride you literally feel nauseated. We both are only 5-6 tall and we still feel cramped in this car. The seats are small and it is very difficult to find a comfortable seating position in this car. The wind noise is really bad too.
Don't drive it if you don't want to buy
Bought this car a couple of weeks ago. Love it to death. Quite, smooth, and have great fun of driving. I went through BMW 3, G35, Lexus absolutely is my right choice. Don't drive it if you don't want it. I repeat, do not drive it, if you are not ready to own!
Like driving a swan
A friend says I look like I'm driving a swan. Lovely Princess Shinjouku is Starfire Pearl, with Cashmere leather. Shinjouku is not nearly as ergonometric as my beloved Volvo, Lars (murdered by a Sequoia driven by a fool who ran a redlight at 80+ mph.). And the design is not as evolved. Doors & trunk drip inside when opened. I'm very agile, but have trouble getting out of the car. The car feels heavy, and the doors have the most amazingly precise and plush sound when they close. I cannot use the sound system. It hurts my ears. I bought for Prestige/reliability/safety/cost to own/beauty. Shinjouku is definitely beautiful: the prettiest Lexus yet. Just wish it were safer and quieter.
2008 IS 250 RWD
First of all, is a 250, not a 350. I understand there is a minimal acceleration when I purchased the vehicle. I dont 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 youre 6+ ft. then gets something bigger. Overall, 250 for luxury commuting w/ great comfort and safety.
Sexy, Sporty, Smooth Ride
Perfect daily driver. Quick, quiet, nimble ride. All-leather cabin is sumptuous and extremely comfortable. Much nicer than BMW in this price class.
Lexus IS 250 AWD Handling Dream
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!
Great Overall Car and Value
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.
Great Little Car
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.
Everything perfect but the brakes
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.
Best In Class
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.
Fun to drive
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.
Slick... but Still a Lexus
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.
Bang for the buck
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.
2008 IS 250 AWD (6A)
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.
Best Car Ever
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.
2008 IS 250
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!
Completely Satisfied
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.
Great overall car, highly suggested
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.
NICE!!!
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.
Wow
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.
Great Car
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!
"LUV IT"
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!
IS 250 Buyer's Remorse
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.
Great car except for the Nav System
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.
Great Car
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.
Overall Happy Customer
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.
Awesome Car!
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.
Awesome vehicle!
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.
Great car for the money
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!
Great Choice
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.