23rd Jan 2007, 18:53

To answer the question about wheel surface scratches on non paved roads:

There are a few products available that are spray on protection for wheels. It is a clear coat type "paint" in a can. However this will not save your wheels from curb rash, but protects against chemicals, and liquids as well as added protection against rock chips. But a more detailed description would help diagnose a better solution. Meaning, what exactly is it that is scratching the wheels?

17th Oct 2007, 14:42

The paddle gear change is very good much better than most systems. I'm also very imoressed with the fuel economy which is fantastic for a 2.5 petrol auto. Not quick, but smooth and refined. Feels like it will last 500.000 miles.

23rd Apr 2008, 16:37

I test drove the IS250 and loved it. The paddle shift is brilliant and so easy to use. I've since ordered a new IS250 SE-L Auto Multimedia.

24th Aug 2009, 10:49

I purchased a fully loaded IS250 SL as new in 2007. Excellent car and I would certainly buy another.

There have been a few niggles (lid on cup holder in the centre console broke, alloy wheels blistered etc) but all were fixed, without a quibble, by Lexus. The after sales service is second to none.

As for drive quality, I have to say that to date, and having done 65 000 miles in the car, it is still a pleasure to drive. The engine is responsive, the ABS is phenomenal, the auto-box more than handles my driving (so well that I rarely use the paddle shift) and it sticks to the road like glue (and trust me I have pushed it hard).

The only niggles I have are the thickness of the paint on the bonnet (it does tend to chip easy, but this could also be down to the bonnet's profile) and the speed / accuracy of the sat nav. Other than that I can't recommend this car highly enough.

Although Lexus, next time, can I have all four rubber mats and not just the three I got this time?

25th Nov 2010, 12:35

I am considering the purchase of a used IS. Could anyone advise if the "flappy paddle" gear box will auto select higher or lower gears based on rev range. I prefer tiptronic or flappy paddles that DON'T auto select gears should you get above a certain rev range. That's what rev limiters are for.

Currently driving a 9-3, and considering the IS, A4, or 3 series.

Thanks for any input.