I purchased my LexusIS 200 SE Auto in October 2003. Having owned and Audi, a Mercedes and a BMW I was immediately struck by the professionalism and keenness of the staff at the dealership. A sort of eagerness to please I had not seen in many years. That feeling is something I still get now whenever I deal with them.
The IS 200 is not an uncommon car. You see lots of them around, rather like the ubiquitous 3 series BMW. However, the point is that they are that bit different both in looks and in substance.
On my first drive two things struck me, apart from the instrument cluster which in spite of its unusual design (copying a sports watch in design) is surprisingly easy to get used to and read. First was the total lack of rattles, creaks or squeaks. Second was the smoothness of the drivetrain and mechanics. The engine is whisper quiet and creamy smooth, thanks to being a 6 cylinder engine. Anyone remember the 50p balanced on the engine test that BMW used to put in their adverts - you can actually do this on the Lexus.
Put against some of its immediate rivals, the choice becomes clearer. In terms of value for money the IS 200 costs less than a similarly equipped BMW, Audi or Mercedes. It also has fantastic residuals. The other major benefit is the standard level of fit and trim. The car comes with everything you really need. The only thing I miss (which has now been included) is the auto-dipping (photo chromatic) rear view mirror. The air conditioning is fantastic on hot days and the seats are comfortable and supportive.
For the enthusiastic drivers amongst us the IS 200 is a rear wheel drive car with all the benefits that brings. The traction control works well but can be a little too intrusive when wanting to press-on. Apparently the Sport version with slightly stiffer suspension and a standard fit limited slip differential is even better. Against the latest 3 series BMW the Lexus will struggle through the twisty bits, but it remains safe and composed at all times. Against the latest Mercedes C-Class the match is fairer, as both these cars are heavier than the BMW and have a tendency toward press-on understeer when pushed into corners.
So having owned one for almost a year what do I think? Well, the car is very easy to live with. The only minor glitch was the salt erosion pitting in the alloy wheels - this is a common problem for Lexus. To their credit, they changed all 5 (yes all 5) wheels promptly and efficiently. No arguments, no fuss. Something that I could only dream of when I had warranty issues with my Mercedes. The fuel economy in the automatic version is not fantastic, I average about 30 mpg. Some of the other cars in its class average mid 30's. The engine cannot be converted to LPG and Lexus will not warrant any car that has the conversion done, so anyone with that in mind should ask before you buy.
As for what my friends think who have been in mine? Two of these are looking to trade in their BMW and Mercedes. I am sure more will follow.
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I loved ours. Best car we've ever had. Sadly reduced circumstances won't see us having another any time soon. Oh, & congrats on your first review. Pat.t
MAFARRIMOND 12.08.2004 19:13
A car of my dreams. Welcome to Ciao. Maureen
mogrus 12.08.2004 14:42
Ooohhhhh! (Girlie squeel) . Love this car too but to expensive for me. Welcome to Ciao. Nikki
Advantages: Stylish, bullet proof build, tons of equipment and not a BMW. Disadvantages: Poor fuel consumption and performance for it's class and not a BMW.
eduardob 29.01.2004 (29.01.2004)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
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