2008 Lexus IS 250 Review discusses a sporty luxury compact.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

2008 Lexus IS 250 Review

In 2001, the IS was introduced by Lexus as a compact luxury sports car. The IS became two separate models, the IS 250 and the IS 350 when it was re-designed in 2006. The 250 is the sportier of the two while the 350 is geared more towards competing in the entry-level luxury car segment. The IS has won a number of awards around the world, including being among the "best vehicles in the entry luxury class in 2006" by J.D. Powers Initial Quality Survey.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Lexus IS 250 is a great entry-level luxury sports car. Its solid reliability won't let you down, and its performance won't disappoint you. It doesn't have the most spacious interior in the world, so if you're looking for more luxury or comfort than sport, you might want to look elsewhere.

What's New For 2008:

The backs of the front seats have been changed in order to provide more rear legroom. A coin holder has been added, and the steering has been revised. One trim is available.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

The IS is one of only three vehicles to earn 5 stars in J.D. Power's 2007 dependability study. Problems with the first generation included flaky compasses and noisy transmissions. No recalls were issued. Problems with the current model include miscalibrated engine computers and misfiring cylinders. It was recalled three times in 2006 for stuck pedals, weak airbag inflators, and stuck seatbelts. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The IS earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 4.5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, ti received "Good" ratings for the front and side, and "Acceptable" for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and stability and traction control come standard. A pre-collision system and dynamic cruise control are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Rock-solid reliability
+ Sporty
+ Available AWD

Cons
- Disappointing crash test scores
- Tight interior
- Option packages can add up

Head-To-Head Competition:

The BMW 3 Series 328i has almost 30 more hp, but costs almost $2,000 more, and lacks leather and a CD changer. The Mazda MAZDA6 Grand Touring costs about $3,000 less, and its trunk is twice as large. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 300 has 25 more hp, but costs a few hundred more, and lacks a CD changer and leather seats.

What Others Are Saying:

"The new IS is more stylish, more powerful and better appointed than its predecessor - all of which go a long way to make it worth putting at the top of any entry-level luxury-car shopping list." - Forbes

"Wonderful piece of work for those who don't need much of a back seat." - USA TODAY

"Straight-line performance aside, the IS250 is a pleasure to drive, even more than its big brother. The IS350 weighs 135 more pounds than the 3465-pound IS250, and with extra weight carried over its handsome nose, the 350 understeers more than we'd like. Also, the more powerful car's suspension feels a bit overdamped and overzealous, whereas the 250's feels composed and tight. There's predictable understeer on corner entry, but a midcorner squeeze on the throttle is enough to tighten your line for a precise and pleasant blast to the next corner. For better balance, we'd take the IS250 over the IS350." - Car and Driver

Read more about the 2008 Lexus IS 250 at the Lexus manufacturer web site.

Published on Friday, February 15, 2008 - Email to a friend

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