SecondHandSense:IF A CAR manufacturer is going to take on the likes of BMW, Mercedes and Audi it needs to offer something unique. Lexus, the luxury arm of Toyota, took on the big names and has stayed the pace in several, but not all, respects. Its styling has generally not matched the long-established players and its name has not carried the same cachet, but it has offered superior build quality and embarrassed some of its competitors by its levels of standard equipment.
The IS 220 competes against the BMW 3 Series, the Audi A4 and the Mercedes C-Class. While the newer model from 2005 marked a radical styling departure from the boxy model it replaced, it does not have the elegant refinement of the 3 Series. The 3 and the A4 have a sense of tradition – the IS looks newer and more brash.
There is a choice of a petrol and a diesel engine and the 2.2 diesel leaves the 2.2 petrol in the shade when it comes to economy and performance generally. It is therefore the best option as a second-hand, as long as it has reasonable mileage.
The IS is at its best as a cruising car on a long journey. The diesel engine has great pulling power and is quiet.
The stereo system is first-class. You have cruise control, climate control, multiple airbags, traction control as part of a battery of electronic safety aids and a refined interior. What other car has sound-aborbing sun visors ?
The car has a five-star EuroNCAP crash-test rating – the maximum – and is very reliable. Lexus, however, is not immune to production problems. In 2006 a few thousand Lexus cars, including IS models, were recalled for seat-belt problems and in 2008 some cars were identified as having potentially leaky fuel lines. But there are few manufacturers who have their cars featured as gold standard winners for seven years in a row in the JD Power reliability awards.
A 2006 IS 220 petrol with 41,000km on the clock is on sale for €18,695. Bear in mind fuel consumption on the petrol is not great and tax is higher. A 2006 diesel with 60,000km is on offer for €20,900. Try to find a car with a full Lexus service history so you can benefit from a Lexus dealer relationship.
STAR RATING: 6/10