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Used 2003 Lexus IS 300 Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
127 reviews

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4.88 out of 5 stars

LOVE THE LEXUS

KENDL, 10/02/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

GREAT VEHICLE, GETS LOTS OF LOOKS!! SPORTY DESIGN BOTH INSIDE AND OUT.

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4 out of 5 stars

@1

Fabio, 10/28/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

fun to drive, eager to run. lots of power, high fidelity road noise. You will eventually understand why someone said it's a sports car for the Nintendo generation. The value seems to be on the short end, the underlying Toyota Altezza personality shows. Shouldn't I get a something else for the money?

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5 out of 5 stars

Lexus....baby!

Altezza, 01/05/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great car, and as you can see by the fake lexus owners (probably own a bmw) ratings, the is300 scares them because the handling of this japanese import is near their bimmer's quality. Handling is great, those who hate it are just jealous =P

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Impressed so far

kfrost, 01/05/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The person who claimed it is a clone of a BMW and they should have gotten one don't know where you are coming from. If anybody is comparing it's performance hp wise it's between the 325 and 330. Handling and precision of steering in my opinion equals either one of BMW's and then at 7k less than the 325 there's not really a comparison unless you donating an extra 7k. Also, the people giving 1's after the first day, I don't care what the product when you produce thousands of something with thousands of parts there are going to be problems from time to time. I hope you get taken care of and repost with the service you recieved during this time.

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5 out of 5 stars

This car is AMAZING!

Lil' IS300, 10/12/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is absolutly incredible. The handling surpasses anything I have ever driven and makes BMW's handling a joke. I can't get over how wonderful it looks - both inside and out. Although the interior (dash) can have a few improvements made, the eye-catching chrome shift knob and gauges are very cool - especially at night when they glow orange. This car get's a 10 for fun to drive...there hasn't ever been a car i've owned which actually gives me a smile taking turns. 3 days after owning this car and i've already peeked inside my garage 10 times just to check on her...it's beautiful. I'm an extremely satisfied customer!

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5 out of 5 stars

One fine automobile

LCDR, 01/07/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

A fine touring automobile. The DVD navigation system and excellent sound system made a recent trip a pleasure. Excellent acceleration and handling. I am very pleased with this car.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Get something else...

whatisit, 01/09/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Actually got mine in May 2001; not 2002. It was before the standard was available; so I am stuck with a slipping aoutomatic. Handles great; not quick enough; has its fair share of problems. Being that I live in NY; I have to drive it in the snow - talk a bout a freaking adventure!!! I mean, the car does not really excel at anything other than handling; but everything else is so average at best - it cannot make up for its downfalls. Do yourself a favor; save your pennies and get a real sportscar. If it has to have 4 doors than save up for a 540. Looking forward to getting out of my lease early on this thing - I am a bit disappointed.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

IS joy

Rotech7, 10/22/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Alot of fun, seats dont go back as far as I would like with my long legs, but other than that, its all good under the hood.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

IS has it all

archtctura, 01/17/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The overall performance and handling of the car is superb given that its lexus' first shot into the mid-size sport category. I have driven the car in the heat of arizona summers and the cold of chicago winters and truely say it starts without a complaint. The build quality is what you would expect from toyota, plastic to fill in the voids, and a horrible paint job! The design aspects of the car such as aggressive lines on a 5 star 17" low profiles is great to look at in the parking lot and interior was cutting edge and the first of it's kind.

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5 out of 5 stars

is300

dcamp, 03/18/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

BMW 330 is too much $$ for what you get. Infiniti spent all their $$ on an engine, but it doesn't deliver anywhere else. This car in flat out fun to drive and delivers on style, performance and luxury.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Reliable

compcond, 03/21/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 SportCross 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I still miss my A4. '98 Avant with 49,000 miles. $5,700 in repair bills (not including cat) during years 4 and 5. No accidents, all maintenance and repairs done by Audi dealers. Car needed ECM #3 and had Check Engine light when I traded it in... and I still miss it. The IS strives to be a German car... it's not. It's a great handling, super reliable, fun to drive, really nice Toyota.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

IS300 Experience

E. Winter, 10/22/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just an incredible and fun car to drive. You ask for a little power and it gives it to you without hesitation. It looks beautiful and attracts attention wherever you go. I can honestly say I love my car....

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Perfect Sports Sedan

Jaytoez, 01/22/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is the perfect balance of quality, value, style and performance. If you are looking for a 4-door that will turn heads but not break your wallet paying for options, the IS300 is the one.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

What's next?

DMC90025, 03/24/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 SportCross 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I drive alot! 2-3K per mo. Heavy LA traffice or flat out on a freeway. Car handles both very well. Got 21K on the clock. New Yokohamas to replace the crap Potenza tires that are over rated, at 20K. In summary, the biggest beef I have is the ability to adjust the driver's seat to my needs. Nada! Beef #2, as the trans shifts in to 2nd under kickdown , acceleration goes flat! Paint finish is not to the standard of the other Lexus cars, ie lots of rock damage, paint readily nicks down to the metal. Suggest new buyers put a small bra on the nose when they first get it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car

CG, 11/12/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The drive is fast, smooth and very comfortable on long trips. The sound system is great.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

fine car back dealersip service

good car bad service, 02/03/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The car overall is fun to drive, its fast and great when going around corners. The body looks great and interior is cool looking. BUT BOY DOES THE DEALERSHIPS HAVE BAD SERVICE...so BEWARE!! ex. watch for door digs and when they give u an oil change, cause they cracked my under carriage and wont fix it!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

good and bad

gogogirl, 03/27/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Sure the car handles pretty well but it needs more HP 260 would have been just fine not 220. The exterior body of the car is just about the best thing about this vechicle, but for over 30k I would invest in something else. To start there is no memory seating,no radio controls on the steering wheel, no leg space and lots of blind spots! Not a good deal for your money.

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5 out of 5 stars

Buy it!

lawdawg, 03/30/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

What a great car! Add to that the low price, and this car can't be beat.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

An affordable Lexus that's a Blast!

fob2000, 10/22/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Make no mistake about it, this is not your father's Lexus. The look of the IS300 is both sporty and unique, and alot of other car manufacturers are starting to copy its styling. This car is a blast to drive, and will truly benefit those who are looking for a great driving experience in addition to quality craftsmanship.

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5 out of 5 stars

I Love my IS 300

Diana504, 03/31/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just got this car for my birthday. It is everything and more. Extremely fun to drive. It curves easily and has quick pick-up. E-shift is fun to use.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2nd IS300

vlad_a, 04/21/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Car enthusiast... I just purchased my second IS300. Manual this time, only auto was available in 2001. This is an amazing vehicle. Handling is great and predictable, styling is perfect. For those complaining about bad handling in snow - get snow tires!

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5 out of 5 stars

I love this car!

Nickel, 03/19/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car has satisfied every penny that I have spent on it, especially its style. The headlights and the tail lights just amaze me every time I see them. In fact, everyday I can't wait till it gets dark just to have a reason to turn them on. The interior maybe a bit small, but what do you expect from a luxury compact sport sedan? The orange dashboard lights against the black really looks good too. The car rides very smoothly and nimbly through the forest of cars on the highway at rush hour. Overall, I think this is a better buy than a BMW 3 or a Mercedes C.

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5 out of 5 stars

best car

good guy, 04/20/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I got a good car. It's a fun to drive. excellent handling, nice design (rear), and perpect audio system are best of this vehicle. Also you drive fast in freeway, you feel attraction of is 300.

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5 out of 5 stars

best value!

wht LexS 29, 11/22/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

i have had this car for a 1 1/2 years now, and i am completely satisfied. i purchased this vehicle from lexus of serramonte and i would like to say they have the best customer service, from buying the car to maintaining it. i wish i waited and got the navigation!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Ron. K, 02/25/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Our family buys only stick shifts because they are fun and so much more responsive. We were attracted to The Lexus for its small size and the Lexus reputation for service. Before the test drive we had no clue that it would be such a hoot to drive. It is responsive, comfortable, quiet and solid. The only drawback was that it made the choice of a second car much more difficult as we were spoiled.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

IS 300 is a solid car

Waggy, 04/30/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have owned the IS 300 for only a week and have never before owned a Lexus. Already my family has agreed we will never be without another Lexus in our garage. The IS 300 is a SOLID car. It has magnificant handling. If you check out the slalom times this thing is as quick as stock vette. The interior is incredibly beautiful and I feel like Lexus is very focused on the driver.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Better relialility and looking than euro

Supra Boi, 01/21/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This vehicle is very nicely built. With innovative designs like the chrono dash and the clear tail lights that started an entire trend in the import scene. Although the performance is not head and shoulders above euro competitions, the price isn't either. And with BMW and Audi's bad history of reliability and MB's outrageous pricing, the IS 300 is a clear choice for a smart buyer that's in the market for a luxury sport sedan.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

MY WHEELS

NUNZ, 05/03/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

LOVE,LOVE,LOVE EXTERIOR DESIGN. G35 COPIED IT,CADILAC COPIED IT.GREAT PERFORMANCE IN THE HANDLING DEPT AND GREAT PICK UP SPEED FOR EVERY DAY DRIVING.COULD HAVE A LITTLE MORE HORSEPOWER. INTERIOR OK,AGAIN A LITTLE MORE TO COMPETE WITH BMW.LOVE MY WHEELS......P.S WHEN IS THE IS 430 COMING, IM IN LINE.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

is 300 5 speed

thepranqster, 01/22/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

love it. would like a little more power though, something to compete with the m3.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

No destination needed, just roads

Yoyogi1, 02/07/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Take this to a twisty mountain road, then you know why you'll stay off the interstate whenever possible. the steering is fast but accurate. limited body rolls let you challenge each corner with confidence. Because of its extremely effective brakes, you get to explore the full potential of the engine's wide and linear power band.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Excellant Review..

quick, 11/27/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased my IS300 this past July. I am very happy w/ the way it handles and accelerates. The ride is nice and smooth for the tight suspension. I find it easy to out handle the Fire Birds, Camaros and CL-Type S on the road. The GPS system is good. I would probably rate it as 2nd best on the market. It is correct about 90% of the time. I think Acura has the best GPS.

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5 out of 5 stars

GREAT CAR

IVAN MARIO, 05/13/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I LOVE THIS CAR.. I LOVE THE WAY IT HANDLES.. I LOVE THE PERFORMANCE.. AND I LOVE THE LOOK

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4.75 out of 5 stars

IS300 - An Almost Perfect Sport Sedan

BigLou, 03/28/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Comparing the Lexus(vs BMW): Pros RELIABILITY - an friend's 325is had problems (transmission and driver seat). My Camry: 10+ years, 150k miles, excellent record "Razor-sharpness" - everything is "sharp." Ride, shifter, clutch - all project a sporting nature Price - almost $10k less. It is easier to deal with Lexus Less ubiquitous - Everybody and his cousin drives a BMW 3 or 5 series. Too "me-too," (except M3 or M5) Better NAV - only one better is on the Acura CL Cons Less prestige - especially in the eyes of girls/non-car-enthusiasts/those fixated on the badge Less power - the 10hp difference (as rated) between the two somehow feel more

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent Car

RHjohnny, 04/17/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

No comparison. Great car, great value, outstanding performance. A++++

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5 out of 5 stars

Way better than a BMW

kthakore, 12/10/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Its simply awesome. I test drove the BMW 325CI but this car is way more fun to drive. It has a bigger engine, a lower sticker price and the Lexus nametag. The handling is awesome. Its just a joy to ride. If u r in the market for a BMW, test drive an IS and u will know what I am talking about. This car is the real deal.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Funnest Wagon Ever

Bertrand, 01/19/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 SportCross 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my IS300 Sportcross about 10 months ago and have over 15,000 problem free miles. This car's engine gets stronger and stronger as it breaks in at it jumps off the line well. Just did a 14.83 second 1/4 mile at 95.66 mph. 0-60 mph was recorded at 6.54 (compared to the magazine/Lexus number of 7.4). My 0- 60 foot time was 2.257, better than I could manage with my 02 Corvette Z06 on the same night! We also own an 01 IS300 with 46,000 problem free miles. Great car

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love it

Weebnuts, 02/24/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 SportCross 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great ride, great performance, great styling, all with the best reliability in the industry.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Well designed car

Mountainman, 04/30/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I test drove several other vehicles (Acura's, Infiniti, etc...) The Lexus is by far the best. Handles like a dream, well made and the instrumentation is intelligently designed. It has a beautifully smooth ride, but feels "tight" when you want to drive aggressively. By far the best car for a young adult with more mature needs (family etc...) but having that sports car drive. Kudos.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car

IS3Driver, 12/12/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This should be on anyone's list who is looking for a sport sedan in the low 30k range.

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5 out of 5 stars

Amazing

Happy Lamp, 08/02/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great car, i really enjoy it. Not only does it look amazing, it drives amazing and is totally realiable.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

excellent car

ccunning, 11/01/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was looking at the IS 300, Audi A4 1.8T, Subaru Impreza WRX, and Infiniti G35. The Audi handled horribly and had an ugly interior and the G35 is too new and has no manual transmission. The WRX was a good car, but couldn't match the refinement of the IS. It's the perfect blend of smooth refinement and performance. The WRX has better magazine numbers, but only due to an AWD launch, the IS is just as fast in the real world. The IS is tuned to a more euro feel, whereas the WRX is softer and more rally tuned. I prefer the tightness of the IS.

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5 out of 5 stars

I love this car

IS300 driver, 12/13/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Want a fun car to drive with saftey features? Then this is the car!!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fun Car

atlantafan, 10/25/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Very fun car to drive. I have had it for over a year and I still get excited everytime I get behind the wheel. Sometimes the transmission sticks when trying to accelerate quickly, but I was told the computers on cars nowadays sometimes get confused in those type situations. Car offers a very comfortable ride especially if you are the one lucky enough to drive it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love this car

James Taylor, 05/03/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the car I have been waiting for forever.

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5 out of 5 stars

Cooler looking and same $$ as Camry

bgk, 09/23/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Shopped last minute for a 2002 before the 2003 arrive at the end of September. All dealers were willing to give them away at cost (28,888), so I couldn't resist. Great lease (4.2% over 39 mos). The rare charcoal color is cool and it drives like a dream (easy cruise at 80 from Santa Barbera this weekend)

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4.63 out of 5 stars

NOT a bad car

EvilJ, 12/25/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

First of all, I would like to make some comments to people who don't like the car: 1) It's a Lexus, but it's not supposed to be luxurious; it's a sports sedan. If you want a luxurious interior, buy an ES300. 2) You can get it with all leather seats, so that's your mistake if you don't like the partial leather seats. I have had no trouble with my IS300. I expect Lexus quality and that's what I get. The car is very fun to drive!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

a hot rod with back doors!

mike jones, 09/24/2002
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

very reliable and fun to drive

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Good Car good Price

babybluegsr92, 01/02/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Excellent car i am buying another one for my mother she loves it so do it great ride little loud on roud noise but what can i say it has 17's not small tires good quick great for the money chicks dig it.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Tons of fun

snaik1, 01/10/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

For the money this is a great car. Lots of fun. I have the tickets to prove it.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

NOT FOR THE COLD STATES

Brenda, 01/13/2003
2003 Lexus IS 300 E-Shift 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Love the style, fun to drive. Not good on gas but not suprised. The biggest suprise was it's performance on a snowy road!!! TERRIBLE! I relocated to a cold state just 2 months ago, bought this car and I'm not sure what to do. I couldn't start accelerating from a stop and slid while driving. Tire dealer recommended slow down and drive a different car! Great car but only in a sunshine state.

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