http://us.autos1.yimg.com/img.autos.yahoo.com/aic/lexus_is250_2006_450x225.jpg

The new Lexus IS is out soon, Looks pretty good too, I'd prefer this over a 3 series.

Not a fan of this or any lexus really. Bland design and is a tad naff, would still take over a bangle beemer mind

I'd definitely take that over the fugly new 3-series. Although the side angles smack of Saab, and the front looks like a cross between a Honda Accord and the Volvo S60 - ie. not particularly exec.-like. I especially like the fact that Lexus's new diesel engine which is to feature in this car, is 13 horsepower up on the 320d's 163hp. How it runs is another matter, however.

Only seen photographs so far but I like the car from the outside.

The inside is a different matter, and as you say Liam the old one was bad too. When i get in the old one it reminds me of a Manga cartoon. The new one is just bland, and somehow dated. I really don't like those little angled centre consoles some manufacturers do. The new Punto has the same thing. The interior of the new 3-series is a bit odd but I have to say it's much better than the Lexus.

The Lexus is a great looking car which along with the new Alfa Romeo 159 and revised Audi A4 really puts the cheap looking BMW 3 Series in the shade.

I suspect the 3 Series will receive a facelift earlier than planned.

The Lexus is a great looking car which along with the new Alfa Romeo 159 and revised Audi A4 really puts the cheap looking BMW 3 Series in the shade.

I suspect the 3 Series will receive a facelift earlier than planned.


I think they'll take the opportunity with the Coupe/Convertible to make it look quite a bit different to the saloon when they are launched that's for sure. The current saloon I couldn't see looking right as a Coupe at all.

The Alfa 159 does look brilliant inside and out. Not sure about the styling direction of the new Audi's though, just my personal taste but the big grill doesn't look quite right. I like the R75 one, but not the Audi one!

Looks nice from here.
I loved the old one as well though.

LOL, such funny posts, but the 3er is the 3er, untouchable.
Also heard complains about cabine space.

I've never liked the look of the little Lexus.

When the previous model was first launched in... er... 1998..?.. I took one out for a test drive. Bit slow with the two litre engine, nice handling but nothing special, angular interior which I didn't particularly like - too plasticy for me - and horrifyingly uncomfortable seats, although the salesman said I'd get used to it. Yeah, right. Like my old Volvo estate car that gave me constant back-ache for two years - once I got rid of the car, I never suffered from back-ache again.

It also had a silly small boot-opening and a dreadfully dull exterior.

Apart from that, it was probably my ideal car. Not.

I like the Lexus GS range, although I still feel the styling is a little bland, but otherwise, Thanks Lexus, but No Thanks.

Bland Jap Crap End Of Story

im sorry but 'bland jap crap' came in quite handy for rover in the not-too-distant past

as for the IS, it looks sweet but i cant wait for the LF-A

Bland Jap Crap End Of Story

Bland Jap survey-topping crap.

i dont think its bland.., its a car aimed at the americans, made by japanese with a euro style to it..
which is why it has a very "could be made anywhere" look to it..

Build quality and reliability should be good though and I understand that its
drive is close to bench mark 3 series

Probably just me, but apart from the headlights, doesn't it look exceedingly similar to the current shape? :confused:

Maybe I need to look closer... :err: