Used 2001 Lexus IS 300 Consumer Reviews
Used IS 300 for sale
BMW look out!
spyderman4774, 03/21/2004
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the IS used four months ago and must say I am completely satisfied. I moved up from a Miata and feared I might be sacrificing some of the superior hadling of the roadster in exchange for some additional interior/cargo space. I was wrong! The IS 300 handles wonderfully with the 17" wheels. The torque of the inline 6 is unbelievable. Dealer service has been excellent. The downside to the 2001, is the lack of a front armrest and no folding backseat.
Nice car
Nice IS300, 03/27/2004
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have the car for 3 year with 16,000 miles on it. Is nice car but it have a few complaint such fuel economy I got about 16 mpg in the city. So far this car have replaced driver side power window motor because when I pull the up position the window go up but it go back right away bring back to dealer for warranty repair. Last month I have to bring the car in to check front brake because when I go on freeway over 55mph and try top step on the brake a little and the steering have lot of vibration. Bring back to the dealer and they have to replace the front brake pad and rotor.
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Cant go wrong with a Lexus.
Chinese Guy, 07/09/2004
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my IS300 used with 22K miles, about 6 months ago and so far I've havent had any problems with it. I used to drive a Honda Prelude with massive modifications so the IS cannot compare to that car. Off the line the IS is slooooow but the V6 will catch up to any other car. I really wish it had a center arm rest, that would help alot. Also bigger cup holders. Forget about getting Big Gulps from 7- 11. I considered a BMW 3 series but read awful ratings about it. Im glad I chose the IS300 over the 3-series. Fin!
IS LOVER
ndr71, 07/11/2004
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Owned for a little over 3 years and very satisfied. Had a BMW325 before and is very comparable with performance and handling. Should've waited for the manual tranny. The only problem is the CD player which had to be fixed/replaced three times. I live in the Midwest and I need Snow tires if it's over 3/4" of snow.
Overall, best bang for the buck!
HIGHAUDIO, 07/18/2004
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my third lexus; had an ES300 then went to the GS400 -- AWESOME!!, and now stepped down to the IS300 because I wanted a stiffer, smaller car. It's been EXCELLENT and with it's track record, i'd recommend nothing else in the price range (except for an older GS -- i love them.)
Fun Toy
ISGirl@Heart, 09/27/2004
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love driving my IS, it's a pure satisfaction and fun to drive.Problem free since day one, oil change, fill the tank and drive.Feel like a kid at all time while driving, can't seems to slow down.
Awesome Car
Rob, 04/06/2005
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought an 01 with 30900 miles on it. I do wish it had a manual. I hate the lag time from pushing the accelerator to the time your car goes. An armrest would've been nice. But I love the feel and handling of this car. Also once you get going this car has all the power you need right at your foot. This is one of the benefits of having a Supra engine even though it is downtuned from what it was in the Supra. I love how everything you could want is a standard feature. The gauge cluster takes some getting used to, though.
Best handling car in its category
Don-corleone, 07/12/2005
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Well, the Is 300 is a pure blast to drive, thanks to great steering feedback, wonderful braking components, and strong handling. The 2Jz-Ge is unfortunatly underpowered compared to the comptetition (G35, 330) but nothing that a Turbo can't fix. Yes it is the same engine as the Supra. Car was over engineered from day 1, thus quality is 0 to none...01'models as mine don't have some of the better refinement as 02'+ like armrest, monochromatic rearview mirror, memory seats, Gps, manual tranny...well I had to go aftermarket.
***Transmission Review ***
Billy Thomas, 07/18/2005
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Ignore the cons about the transmission of this vehicle. The transmission is the best setup ever thought of. its manual, true slap shift, and digital triptonic on the steering wheel with no delay in it. I think the 3 options of shifting this car is what makes it so unique and amazing to drive. Hands down its the stand out option of this vehicle. you honestly must drive it to understand how talented this car is
Best Ever
Shea McCuen, 01/19/2007
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the best looking Lexus ever made. It looks sporty while still maintaining is luxury image. It handles like a rear wheel drive sports car should handle, and engine and transmission performance are perfect.
Great Car 5+ Years W/NO Major Problems
ProjectMayhem, 03/27/2007
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car brand new and have had no majors problems. The only issue I had was my CD changer broke last year, but Lexus replaced it for free! I was more than a year out of warranty -that's customer service! This was my first Lexus but won't be my last. They have the great Toyota quality and even better Lexus styling and prestige. You won't find a better car for the money!
Fun to Drive!
GB, 07/11/2007
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought new. Currently 58,000 miles. Only one problem related to an ignition switch that was very hard to diagnose. Paint is very prone to chips and swirls. Graphite polished wheels prone to damage when tires are mounted. fuel economy isn't fabulous for HP level. A little small for infant seat when rear facing. Oil filter difficult to extract without a mess. Other than these items above, this car has been a joy. Still makes me smile when I blast an exit ramp.
Great Car
Lexus Owner, 07/22/2007
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this car used, couldn't be happier. Nice to know how reliable it is. Have had for over 3 years now, not a single problem. Want something reliable? This is it. Fun to drive, good on gas.
IS 3
EPGuy, 04/23/2003
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I LOVE THIS CAR!
Eye Catcher
SHK, 01/08/2003
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the IS 300 to replace 2001 Mustang GT which had so many problems, interior and exterior. Initial crush with interior and exterior design still stays with me. It draws everyone's attention wherever I go. The car has one of a kind design, superior fit/finish and quality in all aspects.
8 months with IS 300 (and going...)
MaX, 04/03/2002
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
First impression from this sleek sports sedan is something I would never get from any other car. Great exterior design, flashy speedometer/tachometer, sporty shift nob and pedals help you cope with the size of available space. All options suit well with the outfit, just pick whatever suit you best. Service is excellent, acceptable maintenance cost, not as bad as BMW, but not as good as Toyota. Last time I went by the dealer, 2002 special edition looks so good I want to beat myself for not waiting for it. Bottomline: Best car for the price, find the right dealer that will give you services. Grab the key, and let's have some fun. -^_^-
Who needs a BMW!!
TONYflhrci, 06/16/2003
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is too small for my 6'5" figure, but my wife loves the car, its a very sound car for its small size...smooth quiet, no defects at all since new..happy campers!!
A True Match for BMWs
pd, 07/06/2003
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The IS 300 gives top value for overall design and assembly quality and the resultant reliability. Engine performance is highly responsive throughout the RPM range, with instant response and smooth delivery. Handling is precise and balanced (neutral with oversteer at the outer edge). Braking is excellent. The car never feels pressured; it delivers a blend of perfectly synchronized responses. Better overall than two 3-series BMWs that I test drove which were simply too hard-edged.
Lexus IS300
Dianna, 03/17/2002
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the way it drives. It handles great and can accelerate quickly. The E-Shift makes it really fun to drive on the highway.
Took some time getting used to
Just joe, 07/29/2016
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm 6'4 so I'm not a small guy by any means. So it took some time getting used to getting in and out of when it first became my daily driver. I had no intentions of buying a Lexus when I stepped on the lot and the vehicle I was searching for ( Toyota 4Runner ) was sold the salesman showed me this with 143,000 at the time It was a 1 owner vehicle and the gal who owned it was more than a bit irresponsible of how she maintained the vehicle since she first bought it and it showed after I owned it for the first 6 months. Of course being a brand new vehicle and Toyota taking some time to get the kinks worked out with problems during manufacturing. I invested almost $3000.00 to take care of timing belt,water pump belts,hoses,tune up,valve cover gaskets,new muffler and new throttle assembly let alone the constant sight of the dreaded "check engine light" for numerous emissions issues which was included in the figure noted previously after going to lexus and 3 other shops no one could seem to narrow it down and then it was the stupid charcoal canister which I managed to figured out on my own. Granted I got a pretty good deal at the lexus dealership for it but in the end I gave the manager a piece of my mind for a price that I could have gotten a better deal on it after the $$$$ invested when she became mine..I just threw up my hands and said I'm not sinking another cent into this and I'll sell it. Going on almost a year and all her neglect rectified,I couldn't let go of her...I'll admit,she's a fun car to drive and people still comment on her looks which has seen better days from the paint. Now that I've got a 2nd vehicle as my daily driverI just can't let go of my IS300 I drive her mainly on the weekends or if i have to go out on an errand. My 2 mechanics that did approx 90% of the work said...keep it,you'll have that car for at least another 100,000 miles. And so there she sits,in the garage and I admit,I look forward to jumping in and just taking off with her when the chance comes. And even at now 151,000 She'll stay a part of my family for at least a little longer.
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As good as it gets
Jade300, 05/19/2008
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Since the day I first saw this car on a Japanese website back in 2000 I have been in love with it. I picked up my '01 with 60k on the clock and have loved every minute. I performed my basic 60k maintenance and regular oil changes since and it has been problem free. It is a blast to drive but still keeps all the refinements you would expect from a Lexus. And with a Toyota powerplant under the hood, you never have to worry about reliabilty. Fun to drive, decent on gas, great looks and a wonderful engine that takes to modification very well. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a sport luxury sedan that doesnt want to be another faceless BMW driver.
14.5 year owner - LOVE this car so much!
eileen bentley, 01/06/2017
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been driving this car since my daughter was 6 months old -- she's now in high school!!! My sister drove it for 2 years prior to me. This is the sportiest, most fun car to drive because the engine has some serious get up and go. The features on the car from 2001 are incredible and make purchasing any other a serious chore! Great stereo, universal garage door opener, ice cold air, power moonroof/seats/windows - etc. This car has everything!!! 154,000 miles and I know it has another 50K miles at least in her. When I finally sell this car, I sell with it many fond, happy, wonderful memories.
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10.5 years and still going.
Christian, 03/06/2019
updated 03/10/2020
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
At this point in time this car is really old. But it’s common for this car to run well over 100,000 miles. The engine is great! It’s a car that just behaves. Brakes, battery, and keep going. I’ve had the car since 2009 and bought it with 84k miles. Today it’s at around 195k. The engine purrs and is very quiet. It idles gracefully and accelerates with ease. I have a 3 year old son who just keeps growing and sometimes I think about passing it on to get a bigger car. But then I think just keep it because it’s such a great car. It’s fun to drive and I still think it looks sexy. The only thing not so great is the gas mileage and me getting fatter and my kid getting bigger it feels like the car is slowly shrinking. I still love my car. It’s still doing its thing and I’m proud of it.
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- Reliability
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eh.
tonytan12, 01/16/2003
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 5 people found this review helpful
its not anything like any bmw ever. The acceleration isn't that great for the 3000ccs of displacement. And for getting that bad of gas mileage, it should be faster. It does handle good, and the design is nice, but if you have the money, go with the bmw.
Done right, but missing things
Biggy B, 02/03/2004
2001 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Have had for almost 3 years, and wanted to give a lease end review. The 2001 model didn't have armrest!! Biggest complaint, by far!!!!!!! Fuel economy is horrid. Experienced alot of paint chips? Not sure...maybe bad luck, but only have 25k miles, over 3 years...not too much highway driving...I think the paint is suspect. Overall, car is very fun to drive, gas mileage isn't great, but turns heads like you wouldn't believe. P.s. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE IN THE SNOW, with the 17inch wheels....and please don't opt for the 16inch wheels!! Buy an Accord or civic if that is what you want.