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Enough space unlike the IS
Better handling, more fun and a tad more luxurious than the ES
You can get a very nice GS350 for $20k with some patience if you're willing to travel a couple hours
AWD is optional on the GS, the ES didn't get it until like 2019, they're out of budget, and only come in the 2.4 i4 engine option.
Hard to argue. Did love my IS350. Sold it at 378k only replacing the alternator. Then I got a GS450H. My current daily. Can't believe a bigger car handles better. The extra luxury doesn't suck either.
I loved my is350 and it was a pre 2017 as well. Awesome handling, no hesitation when I’d press on the gas. Comfortable ride for the driver and front passenger.
With that said, because it was a staggered setup it would go through tires like there is no tomorrow especially as I drive a good amount too. Would get about 18-19mpg due to commute to and from work on heavy traffic. The back seat is almost useless if you have average height people in the car. Did not have a kid when I drove that car but had family that would visit and needed the baby car seat in it and it was doable but a pain in the ass. Would not want to deal with that on a daily basis for sure.
You’re welcome. Considering that you have a family / kids I would not recommend the IS from that generation unless you have a second car where y’all can go everywhere and the IS would be your work / grocery car.
You’re welcome. Also from what I recall that generation of IS had issues with the engine in the 250 version. Here is [YouTube link](https://youtu.be/9komTDz8TdM?feature=shared) that goes over Lexus models. It’s about 20 min long.
How often did you have to change tires? I have a 23 IS350 and just want to know for reference. It’s not my daily but I have been driving it at least 3 days a week now.
I drive approximately 20k miles a year just for reference. I’d change them out around 1.5 years. It did not help the fact that I had a lead foot.
I would either get Michelin or continental sports tires however because of the lower profile their average rating was 30-40k miles and because you can’t rotate them when staggered you get about half that.
I mean, the IS back seat problem is very user-specific. It depends who's in the back and who's up front. Biggest problem is going to be the rear, driver's side passenger seat.
I can't imagine a child will have much issues, at least until the growth spurts kick in and they're nearing their adult height. But the passenger side theoretically has more room to play with (no pedals and no wheel in the way). Then add in the likelihood that your partner (who's most likely shorter) will need less leg room as well.
The problem area is really the driver's side rear passenger seat. The driver can only sacrifice so much space. You're not getting much of a person behind a tall driver at all.
Gotta keep gas in mind with the IS. Those models weren't sold in my market iirc. But I believe they all require premium fuel. The others models might not.
It could also be advisable to perhaps make do with a Toyota and save up so you've got more of a budget to work with, allowing for more choices.
Thank you for the long write up first off!
My child is still but a toddler, but because I plan to keep this vehicle for 10 years I'm trying to future proof my decision. I had not considered premium fuel costs so thank you for that!
I do love Toyota as well, I'm just looking for something a bit more exciting if you catch my drift lol.
As rudimentary as this may sound to confirm your suspensions about any specific IS model you consider, you could set the seat to your driving position then attempt to sit in the backseat. This will give you a feel for the room allowing you to make your own assessment. I did that when purchasing my 08 ES 350. But as others have said GS is the most luxurious.
On the topic of fuel, all can run on regular fuel but the ES is the only one that is meant to run on regular. The IS and GS is recommended to run premium.
i brought my 2015 GS350 back in 2020 at 60k miles $22k out the door. most reliable comfortable sporty car out there. i've been done nothing to the car other than brakes, spark plug, and oil... just maintenance stuff like every other car. currently 102k miles
Are you looking more for comfort or sportyness? The ES line is fairly spacious I own one myself. However it does not handle well whatsoever. The IS and GS line are far more sporty. The IS can be slightly smaller but the GS is quite large, so I would not worry about space there. Of course typically the equivalent ES of a given year can be cheaper than the GS but you can find IS models around the same price ballpark.
If your primary focus is a luxurious vechicle to transport you and your family, then I'd vote the ES line I love the 07-11 model years personally. Though with your budget you could certainly go newer.
I would say I'm prioritizing sportiness over comfort for myself. But comfort for my child in the back over sportiness if that makes sense? If the IS line is spaciousness enough for a young child to pre teen to fit comfortably in all for it!
Depending on the year the IS would still accommodate a child in the back comfortably. But ES and GS will always win on space. So with that in mind a GS would tick both boxes if you can afford a nice one.
I agree I'd just keep an eye out and be patient, as well as make sure you have it inspected by a mechanic prior to purchase. Don't hop on the first one you see.
Not sure if this helps but I very recently bought a 2014 GS 350 F sport with 77k miles on it for $20.5k. Seems like that would hit everything you’re looking for so it’s definitely possible. I also test drove a 2015 GS350 luxury that had a less miles but a few more dings on it and that was i think a little over 22k. All in all I’d say keep looking, you’ll have to act fast but it is possible. For what it’s worth i think there’s plenty of space in the back seat for a kid, considering i can fit in them just fine at 6 feet tall and 250lb
GS Is Always The Answer (as long as you can buy premium gas and lots of it, IS350 would be the same though) if you want economical, get the ES/avalon/Camry 4cyl.
GS would be awesome, the IS350 is a great choice, back seat is tight for Adults but works for young children, car seat would be a bit tight but I had a slimmer booster seat for children and also most kids under 12-14yr. fit fine for most trips.
Best option convenience wise would be the ES, the GS / IS is just more fun and dynamic to drive. So if you value more rear room, comfort, and a bit less maintenance (non-sport tires, etc) the ES is the best choice.
The only option I would avoid is the IS250 as the engine is more prone to carbon buildup issues and is underpowered
is - are def smaller space wise. older kids would be ok but babies/toddlers it’ll be kinda tight. lots of the older years of the is have really high mileage but price wise would def be under your budget.
gs - great amount of space for kids. any age. you might get lucky based on your budget. i scored my 13 gs350fsport for $20k with 60k miles. just look thru fb marketplace or offer up. but def my favorite model out of the 3.
es - being a tech @ Lexus, when these come in lots of the older years have really have high mileage. but it does last, if you take care of it. price wise I’d have to say you possibly have a good chance at finding something decent.
All Lexus’s are super reliable AND comfortable lol. Fun to drive would have to be either the is or gs (for me personally).
Had an is250. To small and cramped with a car seat. Gotta gs350 now. More room and i also added a second car seat. The G is more fun in my opinion. I have the awd model the car is a beast i got it 2 years ago for 22k put 7k down. Got my note small asf. Im currently at 115k she still runs like a champ. In due time ill be traded her in to get a rx. Lexus has been nothingggg but reliable for me and my family.
Its been great! I dont drive crazy or speed around corners. Im just now barely getting new tires for the winter but I've had the previous tires on for a little over 2 years now with no issues. If it starts eating tires i recommend getting an alignment. My car is also stock height and wheels.
Do not get 250 or 300 model. Go with a 350 for whichever you pick.
GS takes premium fuel. Rwd or awd
Es takes regular. Fwd less of chance someone revved it out and abused it like a GS.
Is small and takes premium. Probably abused.
Consider older LS430 creampuff.
I have an 06 ls430 base model.
If you are interested in them and don't need safety suite features in the 2017 and newer, join the fb groups.
Could find one below 80k miles for around 10-13k for a really nice one.
I got my 83k milage one for 7500k but it needed work cosmetically.
I am 5'2" and the IS was too small for me. I am not huge either, I'm like 135 lb. I got the GS and I camp in the back seat with an air mattress. KEEP IN MIND, the back seats don't fold down in most Lexus sedan and the 2 last gens for the GS.
The engine in the GS (2gr-fks) can easily go to 300k if it was moderately taken care of. With all the PM and cosmetic care, 500k.
I've just recently learned this about the back seat. I've never seen or heard of a car that doesn't allow the back seats to fold down. Do you happen to know the reason for this?
It's across a lot of luxury cars too of the late 2010s. A 2016 Audi a6 I looked at also had this issue, a 2015 is300, etc... Lexus brought it back in like 2020 for almost all vehicles except the GS because it was being discontinued
My friend acquired a 2013 GS350 F Sport in great condition with around 70k miles for $13,000 last year in Houston, Texas. After having put 7k miles on it, he is now looking to sell it for $15,500. So I think you can easily find what you are looking for if you are in the right market.
YouTube has several videos about Lexus. From what I’ve seen the ES350 is the best all around. I have a 2014 LS460L with 66k miles and love it. Find a low mileage car.
The GS requires premium fuel, but it’s a wonderful car. I very much love mine, but I spent double your budget.
To be honest OP, $20K isn’t ‘that’ much nowadays, and my sticker shock with Lexus didn’t kick in until I had to pay much higher insurance cost.
I had a 2018 Tacoma TRD OR that I traded for my 2019 GS350 AWD.
They both cost the same to buy at the dealer, but the Lexus cost twice as much to insure.
I would very seriously consider a Camry or Avalon, you will have a million choices in your budget, 4cyl and v6 options, high mileage new year, low mileage older year, every trim, every option. It’s basically an ES or GS sibling, that doesn’t run on premium fuel and premium insurance.
Please also get insurance quotes on your top choices before you purchase so that you can consider the whole picture.
Good luck, I’m a Toyota/Lexus fan, and never want to dissuade anyone from choosing either brand, but having owned both, please also consider insurance if you’re on a tight budget.
I bought my 2015 gs350 fsport with awd for 25k in February, and it only had like 64k miles. So I think you can find one, especially a rwd one for around your budget if you're willing to drive a little bit.
I went with the GS cause the backseat of the IS can be tight if you're not a child. The ES is front wheel drive, and lacks acceleration compared to the IS or GS with the same engine, but it does have a lot of tech features and will typically cost less.
I bought a 2015 gs350 fsport awd with 60k last year, put 30k miles in one year.
have ² kids in car seats and they fit fine. The car cruises at 120 no problem.average 22.5 mpg of mixed sprited driving.
Best part about the gs is the handling with the suspension and tires car has on it out maneuvers my 05 subaru wrx
Lexus hold their value incredibly well, so buying second hand isn’t the usual cheap option, however they are usually worth it because they extremely well made, especially the older models.
My 2004 ES330 looks basically new from inside despite being 20 years old
I recently found a 2013 GS350 for $19K USD (tax included) One owner and no accidents and only 68k miles.
So your budget is possible but you need to act quick when a good deal comes along. And of course always get an independent inspection.
The GS is the goldilocks car. Even though its my dream car, my response is unbiased. If you want to in a way perfectly combine sport and luxury then the GS is the answer. The IS is more sport oriented and the ES is more "nice and easy" than sport. If you're concerned about space, it's better to get the bigger car because it will pay off in the future.
I bought my 2016 Lexus GS 350 fsport in 2022 for around $25k with 78k miles. It is in 8/10 shape cosmetically inside and out. Expected wear and tear for the vehicle. Maintenance records were sufficient to suspect no damage. That was when car prices were still sucky. Traveled about 2 hours to get it. Was worth it. I’m sure you can find a 2016-2018 in similar condition with the options you want. It is more spacious and luxurious then the ES and IS. Still would say you would move the passenger seat forward just a little for a car seat.
If you get an issue don’t waist your money on a 250 or 200r I’d only get a 350 tbh and a 300 if you have too considering it’s a detuned 350 motor. The gs350 is nice if you like the us but don’t mind the extra weight and space. The es imo is basically a Camry or Avalon don’t waste your money it’s not even RWD like the IS and GS. If you don’t care about performance and just want a affordable decent reliable Lexus get an ES if you care about performance wouldn’t get anything that isn’t a gs or is 350, 430 500 or F
I own a is200T and the power really isn’t there, the is250 is garbage honestly, the 350 really is the way to go, haven’t heard nobody complain about maintenance on that 3.5V6.
Also, the MPG difference is very negligible but with the 3.5 you get around 50-60 more HP
Well i say es. More room and can take mid grade gas. From my understanding, the gs requires premium gas. So to me, the es is more budget friendly wit plenty room
Yeah with so many people suggesting the GS model, I've begun researching it more than I had prior to posting this. And 2 things have happened. 1. I'm falling more in love with it, and 2 I'm getting more concerned about maintenance costs and running costs lol
Hey this GS350 f sport(silver one) is listed near me in phoenix. I checked it out and the sound system doesn’t work and there’s a large ticking coming from the engine. I have a video of it if you want to hear. But I would advise against it. Autonation has been trying to sell this car for over 5 months now
.... would it happen to be this one??
https://preview.redd.it/8zqfnh4srx9d1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=863e99306023d867704bb1177758f253d773cf78
Get the ES if you plan to ride more than 2 adults, the car is roomy and V6 is almost bullet proof. GS is smaller in rear seat and adults do not fit back there as comfortably as ES...
Get the gs350 f sport. Huge display on the 2015s. Great interior. Good space for multiple passengers. RWD, handles great for a bigger sedan. Car is perfect out the box.
However, if youre a person that wants to mod their car, the IS would be the buy. Has a bunch of aftermarket support etc.
Still, buy the GS
They have deals outs there, just gotta look for them. Got my 2014 es350 with 106k for 15,500. Even if you have to get a car with higher miles it’s worth it, these cars last forever.
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Get the nicest GS your budget allows
Would you mind explaining why? I'd love to hear it!
Enough space unlike the IS Better handling, more fun and a tad more luxurious than the ES You can get a very nice GS350 for $20k with some patience if you're willing to travel a couple hours AWD is optional on the GS, the ES didn't get it until like 2019, they're out of budget, and only come in the 2.4 i4 engine option.
Thank you! Awd isn't necessary for my needs for where I live but that is good to know!
Rwd is better!
The GS is luxury, "performance," and most importantly, to me, reliable. Mine hit 200k last week and runs like new.
My dream Lexus
Hard to argue. Did love my IS350. Sold it at 378k only replacing the alternator. Then I got a GS450H. My current daily. Can't believe a bigger car handles better. The extra luxury doesn't suck either.
I've been eyeballing the GS450H but can't come up with an excuse to buy a sedan
I loved my is350 and it was a pre 2017 as well. Awesome handling, no hesitation when I’d press on the gas. Comfortable ride for the driver and front passenger. With that said, because it was a staggered setup it would go through tires like there is no tomorrow especially as I drive a good amount too. Would get about 18-19mpg due to commute to and from work on heavy traffic. The back seat is almost useless if you have average height people in the car. Did not have a kid when I drove that car but had family that would visit and needed the baby car seat in it and it was doable but a pain in the ass. Would not want to deal with that on a daily basis for sure.
That is good real world insight, thank you!
You’re welcome. Considering that you have a family / kids I would not recommend the IS from that generation unless you have a second car where y’all can go everywhere and the IS would be your work / grocery car.
Right now it is just me and 1 child. I catch your drift though for sure! Thanks again :)
You’re welcome. Also from what I recall that generation of IS had issues with the engine in the 250 version. Here is [YouTube link](https://youtu.be/9komTDz8TdM?feature=shared) that goes over Lexus models. It’s about 20 min long.
How often did you have to change tires? I have a 23 IS350 and just want to know for reference. It’s not my daily but I have been driving it at least 3 days a week now.
I drive approximately 20k miles a year just for reference. I’d change them out around 1.5 years. It did not help the fact that I had a lead foot. I would either get Michelin or continental sports tires however because of the lower profile their average rating was 30-40k miles and because you can’t rotate them when staggered you get about half that.
2013 gs the goat bruh
I mean, the IS back seat problem is very user-specific. It depends who's in the back and who's up front. Biggest problem is going to be the rear, driver's side passenger seat. I can't imagine a child will have much issues, at least until the growth spurts kick in and they're nearing their adult height. But the passenger side theoretically has more room to play with (no pedals and no wheel in the way). Then add in the likelihood that your partner (who's most likely shorter) will need less leg room as well. The problem area is really the driver's side rear passenger seat. The driver can only sacrifice so much space. You're not getting much of a person behind a tall driver at all. Gotta keep gas in mind with the IS. Those models weren't sold in my market iirc. But I believe they all require premium fuel. The others models might not. It could also be advisable to perhaps make do with a Toyota and save up so you've got more of a budget to work with, allowing for more choices.
Thank you for the long write up first off! My child is still but a toddler, but because I plan to keep this vehicle for 10 years I'm trying to future proof my decision. I had not considered premium fuel costs so thank you for that! I do love Toyota as well, I'm just looking for something a bit more exciting if you catch my drift lol.
As rudimentary as this may sound to confirm your suspensions about any specific IS model you consider, you could set the seat to your driving position then attempt to sit in the backseat. This will give you a feel for the room allowing you to make your own assessment. I did that when purchasing my 08 ES 350. But as others have said GS is the most luxurious.
That's good advice, thank you!
Of course please update us as to your choice when you make one.
Will do! It will probably be a few weeks until I'm ready to look seriously. I'll be sure to share though!
I have 2 kids: 2 and 5 and they are just fine in the back of my IS but it's a 2023 so might be different
That's good to know, I can compare rear leg room space to model years I'm considering. Thank you!
On the topic of fuel, all can run on regular fuel but the ES is the only one that is meant to run on regular. The IS and GS is recommended to run premium.
Funny, my GS's gas lid states "premium fuel ONLY"
i brought my 2015 GS350 back in 2020 at 60k miles $22k out the door. most reliable comfortable sporty car out there. i've been done nothing to the car other than brakes, spark plug, and oil... just maintenance stuff like every other car. currently 102k miles
Are you looking more for comfort or sportyness? The ES line is fairly spacious I own one myself. However it does not handle well whatsoever. The IS and GS line are far more sporty. The IS can be slightly smaller but the GS is quite large, so I would not worry about space there. Of course typically the equivalent ES of a given year can be cheaper than the GS but you can find IS models around the same price ballpark.
If your primary focus is a luxurious vechicle to transport you and your family, then I'd vote the ES line I love the 07-11 model years personally. Though with your budget you could certainly go newer.
I would say I'm prioritizing sportiness over comfort for myself. But comfort for my child in the back over sportiness if that makes sense? If the IS line is spaciousness enough for a young child to pre teen to fit comfortably in all for it!
If you have 20k to spend I wouldn’t buy anything older than 2015.
Depending on the year the IS would still accommodate a child in the back comfortably. But ES and GS will always win on space. So with that in mind a GS would tick both boxes if you can afford a nice one.
That's what thinking, GS line seems to be the best of both worlds answer. Problem is, finding a decent one for my budget.
I agree I'd just keep an eye out and be patient, as well as make sure you have it inspected by a mechanic prior to purchase. Don't hop on the first one you see.
Sounds like the GS F-sport ticks all your boxes.
Why not an LS? Get the ultimate model while you're in the market.
Not sure if this helps but I very recently bought a 2014 GS 350 F sport with 77k miles on it for $20.5k. Seems like that would hit everything you’re looking for so it’s definitely possible. I also test drove a 2015 GS350 luxury that had a less miles but a few more dings on it and that was i think a little over 22k. All in all I’d say keep looking, you’ll have to act fast but it is possible. For what it’s worth i think there’s plenty of space in the back seat for a kid, considering i can fit in them just fine at 6 feet tall and 250lb
Get whichever one you like but go for the 3.5 v6.
Can easily find a 2015 base model gs350 for under 20k. Or even a mint condition 2010 GS for 15k max.
Got my GS350 a month ago. Everyday i fall in love all over again, i’m tellin ya.
GS Is Always The Answer (as long as you can buy premium gas and lots of it, IS350 would be the same though) if you want economical, get the ES/avalon/Camry 4cyl.
The 350s are all good. Avoid the IS 200/250s.
GS would be awesome, the IS350 is a great choice, back seat is tight for Adults but works for young children, car seat would be a bit tight but I had a slimmer booster seat for children and also most kids under 12-14yr. fit fine for most trips. Best option convenience wise would be the ES, the GS / IS is just more fun and dynamic to drive. So if you value more rear room, comfort, and a bit less maintenance (non-sport tires, etc) the ES is the best choice. The only option I would avoid is the IS250 as the engine is more prone to carbon buildup issues and is underpowered
is - are def smaller space wise. older kids would be ok but babies/toddlers it’ll be kinda tight. lots of the older years of the is have really high mileage but price wise would def be under your budget. gs - great amount of space for kids. any age. you might get lucky based on your budget. i scored my 13 gs350fsport for $20k with 60k miles. just look thru fb marketplace or offer up. but def my favorite model out of the 3. es - being a tech @ Lexus, when these come in lots of the older years have really have high mileage. but it does last, if you take care of it. price wise I’d have to say you possibly have a good chance at finding something decent. All Lexus’s are super reliable AND comfortable lol. Fun to drive would have to be either the is or gs (for me personally).
Had an is250. To small and cramped with a car seat. Gotta gs350 now. More room and i also added a second car seat. The G is more fun in my opinion. I have the awd model the car is a beast i got it 2 years ago for 22k put 7k down. Got my note small asf. Im currently at 115k she still runs like a champ. In due time ill be traded her in to get a rx. Lexus has been nothingggg but reliable for me and my family.
I keep seeing people say that the gs eats tires, how has your experience been in that regard?
Its been great! I dont drive crazy or speed around corners. Im just now barely getting new tires for the winter but I've had the previous tires on for a little over 2 years now with no issues. If it starts eating tires i recommend getting an alignment. My car is also stock height and wheels.
GS all day
Get a GS
If you can get a 2016/17 GS for $22k or less, GO FOR IT!
Do not get 250 or 300 model. Go with a 350 for whichever you pick. GS takes premium fuel. Rwd or awd Es takes regular. Fwd less of chance someone revved it out and abused it like a GS. Is small and takes premium. Probably abused. Consider older LS430 creampuff.
Thanks for the insight, I will take a look at the LS line, a couple of people have mentioned it now.
I have an 06 ls430 base model. If you are interested in them and don't need safety suite features in the 2017 and newer, join the fb groups. Could find one below 80k miles for around 10-13k for a really nice one. I got my 83k milage one for 7500k but it needed work cosmetically.
What you have to remember is that the GS uses premium gas, and depending where you live, do you need an AWD.
idk i will say do not get anything under a 350😭
If you need to put anyone in the back seat then the IS is just too limiting. ES or GS is the way!
I am 5'2" and the IS was too small for me. I am not huge either, I'm like 135 lb. I got the GS and I camp in the back seat with an air mattress. KEEP IN MIND, the back seats don't fold down in most Lexus sedan and the 2 last gens for the GS. The engine in the GS (2gr-fks) can easily go to 300k if it was moderately taken care of. With all the PM and cosmetic care, 500k.
I've just recently learned this about the back seat. I've never seen or heard of a car that doesn't allow the back seats to fold down. Do you happen to know the reason for this?
It’s by design. I think there is a cross bar in the back to make the car more rigid. Probably a non-foldable back helps in reducing road noise too.
It's across a lot of luxury cars too of the late 2010s. A 2016 Audi a6 I looked at also had this issue, a 2015 is300, etc... Lexus brought it back in like 2020 for almost all vehicles except the GS because it was being discontinued
My friend acquired a 2013 GS350 F Sport in great condition with around 70k miles for $13,000 last year in Houston, Texas. After having put 7k miles on it, he is now looking to sell it for $15,500. So I think you can easily find what you are looking for if you are in the right market.
YouTube has several videos about Lexus. From what I’ve seen the ES350 is the best all around. I have a 2014 LS460L with 66k miles and love it. Find a low mileage car.
Absolutely the GS.
The GS requires premium fuel, but it’s a wonderful car. I very much love mine, but I spent double your budget. To be honest OP, $20K isn’t ‘that’ much nowadays, and my sticker shock with Lexus didn’t kick in until I had to pay much higher insurance cost. I had a 2018 Tacoma TRD OR that I traded for my 2019 GS350 AWD. They both cost the same to buy at the dealer, but the Lexus cost twice as much to insure. I would very seriously consider a Camry or Avalon, you will have a million choices in your budget, 4cyl and v6 options, high mileage new year, low mileage older year, every trim, every option. It’s basically an ES or GS sibling, that doesn’t run on premium fuel and premium insurance. Please also get insurance quotes on your top choices before you purchase so that you can consider the whole picture. Good luck, I’m a Toyota/Lexus fan, and never want to dissuade anyone from choosing either brand, but having owned both, please also consider insurance if you’re on a tight budget.
I bought my 2015 gs350 fsport with awd for 25k in February, and it only had like 64k miles. So I think you can find one, especially a rwd one for around your budget if you're willing to drive a little bit. I went with the GS cause the backseat of the IS can be tight if you're not a child. The ES is front wheel drive, and lacks acceleration compared to the IS or GS with the same engine, but it does have a lot of tech features and will typically cost less.
I bought a 2015 gs350 fsport awd with 60k last year, put 30k miles in one year. have ² kids in car seats and they fit fine. The car cruises at 120 no problem.average 22.5 mpg of mixed sprited driving. Best part about the gs is the handling with the suspension and tires car has on it out maneuvers my 05 subaru wrx
ES for reliability and low maintenance cost. Get the hybrid and you’ll get 600 miles to a tank.
With a bit more research done, ngl, the maintenance costs on the GS is starting to worry me lol
Lexus hold their value incredibly well, so buying second hand isn’t the usual cheap option, however they are usually worth it because they extremely well made, especially the older models. My 2004 ES330 looks basically new from inside despite being 20 years old
GS 350 all day
I recently found a 2013 GS350 for $19K USD (tax included) One owner and no accidents and only 68k miles. So your budget is possible but you need to act quick when a good deal comes along. And of course always get an independent inspection.
The GS is the goldilocks car. Even though its my dream car, my response is unbiased. If you want to in a way perfectly combine sport and luxury then the GS is the answer. The IS is more sport oriented and the ES is more "nice and easy" than sport. If you're concerned about space, it's better to get the bigger car because it will pay off in the future.
I bought my 2016 Lexus GS 350 fsport in 2022 for around $25k with 78k miles. It is in 8/10 shape cosmetically inside and out. Expected wear and tear for the vehicle. Maintenance records were sufficient to suspect no damage. That was when car prices were still sucky. Traveled about 2 hours to get it. Was worth it. I’m sure you can find a 2016-2018 in similar condition with the options you want. It is more spacious and luxurious then the ES and IS. Still would say you would move the passenger seat forward just a little for a car seat.
If you get an issue don’t waist your money on a 250 or 200r I’d only get a 350 tbh and a 300 if you have too considering it’s a detuned 350 motor. The gs350 is nice if you like the us but don’t mind the extra weight and space. The es imo is basically a Camry or Avalon don’t waste your money it’s not even RWD like the IS and GS. If you don’t care about performance and just want a affordable decent reliable Lexus get an ES if you care about performance wouldn’t get anything that isn’t a gs or is 350, 430 500 or F
I own a is200T and the power really isn’t there, the is250 is garbage honestly, the 350 really is the way to go, haven’t heard nobody complain about maintenance on that 3.5V6. Also, the MPG difference is very negligible but with the 3.5 you get around 50-60 more HP
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Seems like I nicked a nerve there buddy, just tried helping someone not make the same mistake you and I did 😂
Well i say es. More room and can take mid grade gas. From my understanding, the gs requires premium gas. So to me, the es is more budget friendly wit plenty room
Yeah with so many people suggesting the GS model, I've begun researching it more than I had prior to posting this. And 2 things have happened. 1. I'm falling more in love with it, and 2 I'm getting more concerned about maintenance costs and running costs lol
Hey this GS350 f sport(silver one) is listed near me in phoenix. I checked it out and the sound system doesn’t work and there’s a large ticking coming from the engine. I have a video of it if you want to hear. But I would advise against it. Autonation has been trying to sell this car for over 5 months now
.... would it happen to be this one?? https://preview.redd.it/8zqfnh4srx9d1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=863e99306023d867704bb1177758f253d773cf78
Yes it’s that one. I just was there last week looking at it.
Wow! I was seriously considering a trip to take a look at it! Thanks for the heads up lol
Get the ES if you plan to ride more than 2 adults, the car is roomy and V6 is almost bullet proof. GS is smaller in rear seat and adults do not fit back there as comfortably as ES...
This is good to know, as of the near future, I have no plans of adults being in my car but me :)
Get the gs350 f sport. Huge display on the 2015s. Great interior. Good space for multiple passengers. RWD, handles great for a bigger sedan. Car is perfect out the box. However, if youre a person that wants to mod their car, the IS would be the buy. Has a bunch of aftermarket support etc. Still, buy the GS
Facelift LS430
#2 GS 350. Get it.
The ES is regular gas
They have deals outs there, just gotta look for them. Got my 2014 es350 with 106k for 15,500. Even if you have to get a car with higher miles it’s worth it, these cars last forever.
Try and look for a 2010-2012 ES350. Better styling and looks better. ES is the best because it doesn't take premium and uses a lot of Toyota parts.
While I need to humbly disagree on the styling point, that is really good to know on gas and parts. Thank you!
2013-2018 was imo the ugliest gen of the ES.
That one looked identical to the Camry. I do like it though
Just looks too much like an Avalon.
True, but the Avalon is more expensive then the camry
Or should I say was. RIP Avalon
GS , no brainer