Lexus IS Saloon (1999 - 2005) 3.0 4d Auto (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'd like to think I'm someone who knows quality, style and durability when I see it and can find bargains that look like they should cost a lot more!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Not had one bad comment on it. Remember this is an 11 year old car and I think it has aged with beauty. Stick a private plate on it (as I have) and people will never recognise the age as the quality simply shines through.

Would you buy this car again and why?

To be honest, probably not. I'm not a fan of buying the same car twice. However, I can honestly say it is one of the best cars I have owned and just wish I bought one sooner!

What are you likely to buy next?

Hmmm, seriously impressed with the Lexus GS450h - and will it be high mileage that I buy? Absolutely!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

May 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

I thought I got an excellent deal. The car is a 2003 3.0 with 103k when I bought it. Got the car for £100 off screen price and 6 months tax.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Ever since the Lexus was launched I always admired it and one day promised myself I would have one.

What was the dealer like?

Really friendly. Nothing too much trouble. Excellent customer service and no hidden charges!

What's it like to drive?

It has a nice smooth power delivery, if a little lazy. It is quick and will keep up with most, the engine comes into its own is when it's cruising though. It has fantastic torque so overtaking is effortless, Triple figures feels like you are are doing half the speed. It is nicely composed without ever being skittish on the road. Ride quality is fantastic, up there with the best, superbly balanced over rough road, its not the sharpest in the corners but it is still competent. Watch out in the rain - it has a limited slip diff which still allows for a little bit of spin! MPG - I get mid 20's around town and mid-high 30's on a good run. On a tank (70L) on varied roads and speeds I get 350-375 miles until the light comes on.

What's it like to park?

Parking is ok. The boot doesn't go back as far as other saloons I have driven. The bonnet has a hump in it which can be a bit deceiving sometimes. It has quite a small windscreen but fairly thick a pillars so visibility is only average.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not a thing. Do not be put off by higher mileage Lexus's, these cars are built to last! Like I said 103k on mine with 11 dealer stamps, gearbox is silky smooth, no knocks or bangs and the paintwork still gleams at 11 years old! Not a single rattle in the cabin, not one!

What's most practical about your car?

To be honest, it's not very practical. Due to it being RWD some of the room in the back is taken up by the transmission tunnel and some boot space taken up by the arches. But on a plus (if this can be classed as practical) its absolutely effortless to drive, especially around town, which to me makes it more practical than say the missus's car which is fidgety and jerky around town.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Hmmm, electric heated leather seats are always nice and you literally melt into them! For me though it has to be the HID lights, brilliant in the dark. Or switching into manual mode on the auto box, this allows you to change up/down the gears with buttons on the steering wheel - standard on all IS300's. I don't use it that often but it's nice to know I have them :-). Ooo.... Also, the factory sound system is brilliant for a standard unit. Sound is very loud and has excellent punchy bass and crisp higher notes.