Why I did not Buy the 2024 Lexus IS500

[@muddyducker3336]

Car Guys with the dough: I'll have the V8 thank you. Long Range Commuters with reasonable resources: I'll take the V6 thank you! Everyone Else: Hmm, I could get the turbo 4 but I'll just take a Civic thank you.

[@CarMarketGuy]

I can't argue with that.

[@timw2083]

If you like it, great choice 🎉 I purchased the IS500 because I wanted the V8. I'm glad sport sedans still exist in this SUV world

[@CarMarketGuy]

Hey this is all my opinion, I am glad you are enjoying yours ;)

[@V8Brah]

So you bought a IS350 because you couldn't find a IS500 in the color you wanted at the price you wanted. Got it.

[@CarMarketGuy]

@@V8Brah that was part of it, yes

[@erickbarragan4275]

@@CarMarketGuy Just say you couldn't afford it LOL Im loving my IS500 every day

[@CarMarketGuy]

@@erickbarragan4275 So you did not listen to the whole video, at the current price of the IS500 I may as well buy the LC used

I drove the IS350 and the IS500. When you see me in your rear view mirror please please yield the right away, and listen to my V-8 as I pass by in my IS500. 😊

[@CarMarketGuy]

I will do ;)

[@93ksj]

cringey ass comment

[@Jasing.Dreamz]

You have valid points. As I'm looking to purchase one within the next year (IS500), I'm encountering a lot of the same things you mentioned. Good video

[@ayeits_jp]

I test drove both the IS 350 & IS 500. I ended buying the 350 bc I love V6 engines. I own a 1997 Toyota 4Runner with 53k miles a gem and a 2009 Toyota Tacoma with 79k miles which is my daily. I never see myself needing a V8.

[@johnmartinez5472]

i want the is 500 but don’t want the higher insurance…. im super happy with my is fsport 350

[@ayeits_jp]

I compared the IS 350 and IS 500 insurance and it’s not too bad.

[@salimrandall]

Congratulations. You can’t lose with any IS model IMO.

[@CarMarketGuy]

This is true

[@wtbA29]

I have cloud burst grey with white and black interior. I initially wanted Red because of the hassle of up keeping white seats but man the white interior is beautiful it stands out and is rare to see in a lot of cars in this price range.

[@CarMarketGuy]

I'd say the white interior is pretty rare to see. I do like it in the few cars I've seen it in. Awesome you were able to get one

[@philhenderson3516]

I've driven both and also owned a GSF. The IS500 feels somewhat lethargic and the interior leaves a lot to be desired. For the money, the IS350 is a much better buy and while obviously slower, at low revs it feels peppier and is more agile when taking turns.

[@gregthesplintercell]

Yes and I'm sure the IS350 will feel and be a bit quicker with proper tires as well.

[@joespeed5991]

@@gregthesplintercell😂😂

[@MidnightAspec]

First time viewing your channel. This is a great and very honest review, which provides a lot of food for thought. Thanks for sharing.

[@rocknrolldog5116]

Bought an IS500 in the interior and exterior colors I wanted (red outside and black inside). The insurance cost was similar between a 350 and 500; although, I am older and have a good driving record.

[@CarMarketGuy]

That's fantastic. Did you custom order yours?

[@rocknrolldog5116]

@@CarMarketGuy Sort of. I found the car with the specs I wanted at another Lexus dealer. I contacted my regular Lexus dealer and told them the car I wanted was there. They did some trading with that dealership and obtained the car for me.

[@xochilquetzal18]

I have a '21 v6 Camry and wanted a car with more power so I bought the is500. My camry is my daily and the is500 my fun car

[@longbowdt]

I like your value-proposition rationale. I bought a new '23 350 F-Sport with the handling package. I only briefly considered the 500. Like you I intend to drive the car on long trips with the wife. Her car is an '05 ES-330. Excellent for relaxed interstate cruising. I prefer backroads America. I'm fine with the mostly early-century tech inside. Otherwise the interior of my wife's car seems of better quality, slightly; less plastic and more of a luxury interior there. But I'm for the cut-and trust suspension of the 350. Plus it harkened my return to a normally-aspirated engine (with port and direct fuel injection). Down on power? Yep. That puts it in the category of the BMW 330i (4-banger), which has more rear-seat room. At 5'8 I can help those behind me, for that rare eventuality. The car cruises nicely too. The "premier" sound system ain't really all that to my ear; muddy bass. But the driving is the thing. I can feel the Torsen rear diff rotating the car in tighter turns taken a bit too fast. Had to get used to that too. I hadn't owned a rear-wheel drive machine in a long while. Front-wheel dominated for a while, then all-wheel drive for the past 21 years (my 2013 Golf-R sits in the garage on a trickle charger nowadays). This car drives like an Alfa Giulia that's gained some weight, but still dances almost as light on its feet. And I trust it to get me from coast to coast without undue worry. That's huge for me. Especially on the back roads. Down a bit on mpg? Sure. But good premium gasoline is it's own reward. I'm comfy driving in eco mode, or normal mode most of the time. Those modes are more than adequate for city driving. Won't see me holding back traffic. I see the car in the light of a "4-door Miata" sort of daily. It won't hold a candle to my tuned Golf-R off the line. There's something to be said for a car that is exciting to drive when the road gets twisty. While not the quickest bat out of Hell, it affords one time to linger on, and enjoy the only-slightly-longish rush to speed. Driving a slow car fast is it's own reward. So I chose the IS 350 F-Sport with rear-wheel drive even though I live in a climate given to show. Grew up on RWD cars and driving in snow, so...I'm home.

[@joespeed5991]

Listened to you and I feel you bought the right car. If you find the 500 transmission similar to the 350 i am happy you didn’t get and whatever the reason was the 500. Enjoy your 350 my friend 😢

[@qnunyuh8417]

great video, great reasoning, paying for a spec you don't want definitely doesnt sound fun, the 350 isnt slow to me but, I'd still go for the 500 just for the performance, finances a side you cant go wrong either way.

[@lrod312]

When I ordered my IS500 last year, it was during a time when used cars prices were sky high and the IS500 reviews were somewhat rare. So I was lucky enough to be able buy during a time when the dealerships weren’t considering MSRP an outrageous price point and just wanted them off the lot. The new mustang wasn’t out yet but coming off an ‘08 Acura TL-S, I had to have a high revving V8. A used LC500 in decent condition was going for $80k which put me right out of my price range. But I really love the IS500 for the dual personality. On the highways it behaves differently enough than a 350 but in the streets, it drives very similar.

[@CarMarketGuy]

Hey I am glad you are enjoying it :)

[@JacobMitchell-df7np]

Great video I agree. After owning an is500 for about a year and a half it’s really a lot more expensive then the is350 and you really don’t get much more for what you pay. Also there’s like 1,000 white is500’s already made so it would just be average my opinion. The only colors worth getting I think is blue or red they are a lot harder to find and might hold their value a lot better.

[@CarMarketGuy]

The red is a fantastic color but its makes the car even harder to get plus I heard some dealers doing mark up on red.

[@kentm8841]

I have never driven the IS 500. I agree with your decision based on your needs. I have a 16' IS 350 F Sport. I like it but I do find myself looking at preowned IS 500's. Enjoy your new vehicle.

[@Dancingpastmidnight]

Very informative and common sense approach. I concur with your decision.

[@gregjones2472]

With this being your daily, and your travel car, did you consider getting the ES? I understand that the IS is the sportier car, but did that really out way your other needs? Just curious to hear since I am considering both. Thanks

[@CarMarketGuy]

Good question. The sporty look had a lot to do with me picking the IS, also I may replace my wife's Corolla with an ES (she seemed to like it) so I didn't feel like getting one right now

[@matteocoutant4282]

Es is the better daily in my opinion. More spacious interior, both up front and in the back seats. Better fuel economy, still quick. Sleeper! The area where the is350 beats the ES is on a backroad. Being RDW, It’s a good all around sports car. If you’re commuting, and doing errands, the ES would be my choice.

[@Mathguy363]

I’ve owned 2 ES350 and it’s by far the smoothest and most comfortable car I’ve ever driven. It’s a smoother, more comfortable ride than the IS and roomier. Only downside is that it’s fwd, and the IS is a better choice in the snow with awd

[@Mrb905-bi8is]

I actually had a similar experience except I have a 250 took my car in for service and they gave me a 2021 IS350 ..I was excited to try it but the driving EXPERIENCE was not that much different to than what I already have so I get it.

[@bigjdm5460]

Honestly you sound like an ES350 type of guy. Which is a smart buy. They ride more supple and is a bit more insulated than an Is. Same V6 Toyota / Lexus has been putting in everything for 20 years. You dnt sound like a car guy at all. You’re a 800 credit score , price , fuel economy type guy. The is500 breaks to many rules for you. ES , ES, ES. I was going to get an 2014 IS350 fsport back in 2014 . I sat at the dealership and ended up walking out. Interior was great and timeless to me. But that V6 was in everything including the Sienna , old rav4, camry , avalon, the tacoma, etc. I jumped on the IS500 quickly , I felt they finally gave the interior and exterior styling the engine and theatre it deserved.

[@CarMarketGuy]

I see a lot of people suggesting this, here is the kicker, the ES is going to be the surprise car for my wife ;)

[@85CEKR]

I had an 2020 es350 before I got my is500. It's a great car too. I wish I could have kept the es350 as my daily and the 500 for fun.

[@mr.c.6620]

I love, love, love the IS body style, unfortunately for me the tech holds it back. I know there are lots of people who love the old school tech. Because of that I purchased an ES 350 UL (Grand pa car) however I still want the IS. As you stated the IS 500 is exactly the same car as the IS 350 interior wise. Hopefully the 2025 IS 350 will have the updated Lexus infotainment system.

[@NabilBandi]

I bought an IS 350, and let me tell you that it looks dated, but the car has all the features new cars have like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Assistance, Lane Tracing Assist, automatic high beams, and the cruise control is like an auto pilot, Its pretty cool. I think all features in huge screens are not that easy to use, especially while driving, and old school buttons makes it easy and down to the point. Also, the 10 inch screen controls many features including the AC, and its not necessary. It actually makes it difficult., and that's when you realize buttons are the way to go. I agree with you that they should have made it more futuristic even if using old school buttons. The CD player is ridiculous, they could've used that space for something else, like a slot for the your cell or wireless charging. Also, Car Play is not wireless, That's my biggest complain.

[@gregjones2472]

Are you happy with the ES, or do you regret it because it is just too much of a grandpa car?

[@mr.c.6620]

@@gregjones2472 Let me start by saying I’m a person who loves tech, the ES does an OK job with tech. An opportunity exists for Lexus to put the same tech in their sedans and coupes as they have in their SUV’s. Yes it’s a grandpa car, but the reliability makes it hard to walk away from. The IS has even less tech but the exterior design is AMAZING IMHO. An LC 500 would be the solution.

[@gregjones2472]

@@mr.c.6620 Agreed, LC 500 is always the answer!

[@gleblanc83]

@@NabilBandi im glad they kept the CD player.. they sound the best on the ML system

[@ronaldhorton5541]

I to wanted a IS500 but the transmission and the firm pricing turned me off maybe I’ll test the IS350 thanks for sharing your thoughts

[@CarMarketGuy]

Happy I helped :)

[@ConfirmedPatriot]

If you’re a muscle car enthusiast you buy the IS500 sight unseen. Was an easy choice for me as I out grew 5.0 Mustangs and the insurance for a Stang was more than the IS500.

[@OttoTetrazzini]

I’m looking into an IS500, and like every Toyota dealership experience, getting EXACTLY what you want is nearly impossible. I considered the 350F sport previously, but from a performance standpoint, the TRD Camry was the better option at its price point (I know the Camry is not a luxury car) to buy. But now I’m considering upgrading to the IS500. Essentially the only option is to put in a request for allocation with your preferred options/colors and see what Lexus sends the dealership. And you’re right - zero base cars being built. At least Toyota/Lexus consistently ensure you a complete headache out of the buying experience.

[@sew9068]

Not sure how an IS 350 and a TRD Camry are in the same class for purchase. Is you focus based on speed and brand based on Toyota/Lexus and 4 doors?

[@OttoTetrazzini]

@@sew9068 Correct analysis. Was looking for the best 4 door perform-ish sedan available. For price, the Camry is the better performer - and gets better MPG. But it does lack significantly in comfort and features. There's definitely a reason (or 10) it was $10k less than the IS350 F Sport.

[@jpdoc5722]

I’d be really happy with either one🙌🏆

[@CarMarketGuy]

@@jpdoc5722 Either one is a great car :)

[@turnerpunk]

Looking at both of these myself with the same dilemma. How much difference was the insurance per month? I think the AWD capability of the V6 is most likely going to steer me toward the 350 as well. Id sure love the new 2025 is500 in the yellow though!

[@CarMarketGuy]

It was $500 extra to insure the IS500 (this is for full 6 month) If you need AWD then 350 is your option for sure.

[@3IS2UR]

The problem with IS350 AWD is the tranny is not 8spd, it's actually 6spd auto for the awd, you got that hump by your right leg, the 8spd on the 350 rwd shift similar on normal modes but the IS500 in correct mode it shifts way faster than the 8spd on the IS350 cuz really it's a different transmission. IMO I would gotest drive 350 AWD, 350 RWD and the 500 then make your own decision cuz lots of so called youtubers/reviewers don't know wtf they are talking about.

[@CarMarketGuy]

@@3IS2UR I've never tried AWD they are non existent here in TX

[@SansooIan]

I was on the fence with a Used IS350awd 23, But I did not like that the Performance equated to that of a New WRX. I felt like for the new price, I should get a smidge more from the engine. Audi S3 Fits.

[@CarMarketGuy]

Interesting point

[@SansooIan]

@CarMarketGuy I was honestly very Surprised. And not a Manual WRX. The New WRX with its so called SPT auto trans (CVT). It's the same get up and go for 15,000 less. Nigh the same 0-60. But the Lexus is more Plush and Nicer riding overall. At that point I dropped both options and went for an Audi S3. Very satisfied, Good mileage.

[@DiaZC-sl8vg]

You lost me at “ I looked at a mustang “ 😂

[@CarMarketGuy]

Good thing that was later in the video ;)

[@EveryoneLovesPete]

Financially you made the right choice, I have an IS500 myself and I know what the payments are like but in this video you kind of sound like you're salty that you couldn't afford one. I could be wrong, but it's jus the way it sounds. either way, enjoy your 350 its a very nice car and it looks like the Dynamic Handling Package. Good choice

[@CarMarketGuy]

If anything I am salty that no dealership in 1000 miles carried the IS500 base. I could not justify $70k for an IS500 Premium given that it has a lot of things I am not interested in.

[@EveryoneLovesPete]

I am curious now that you say it has a lot of things that you’re not interested in, what are those things exactly? Because if the 350 you got is indeed the one with the dynamic handling package then you should have every single feature the 500s come with minus the V8 and the hood bulge. It’s basically all you’re missing and I would know that because I used to have a 2022. That car was 62k after taxes and fees and no dealership markup so no, you’ll never find a 500 for that “base” price. The claim of “features I’m not interested in” would’ve made more sense if you were driving a base 350.

[@CarMarketGuy]

@@EveryoneLovesPete Mark lev and Bamboo interior. That is 4k right there. Every IS500 had that here in TX. The IS500 Performance MSRP is 62k after DHP, all dealerships have it at 68k. At that price I am already on LC500 prices in the used market

[@sonar85]

I think the whole car culture in the US is going the wrong way. I don’t think anybody has to explain why they like certain cars. Saying nobody can tell the difference between is350 and is500 from the outside is totally irrelevant. Just get what you like and enjoy. Japan has alot of LC500h and LS500h. Because they like it. Simple as that. They dont give a shit of what others think. Stop chasing others opinions. Cheers

[@CarMarketGuy]

This video was not about explaining why I didn't like certain car, it was about the research I did and how I got to that conclusion so it can help someone deciding on same as I did.

[@zenkoz3158]

It not what they like lol, they buy cars with smaller engines because there's a heavy tax on engine displacement in Japan 😂

[@battousai2089]

The V8 is for car enthusiasts. You have to unleash the V8 sounds with a higher-quality aftermarket exhaust. I had a complete GThaus installed, and it scream. The LC is no match!

[@CarMarketGuy]

Oh I agree the LC is no match, cause the LC is leagues above it.

[@arejaydubya]

I really wanted to like this car. Looks like nothing else on the road, the V-8…but that transmission is awful. Reliability aside, that trans just robbed that engine of all of its highlights besides the noise. Totally ruined the car for me. Ended up with a 6-speed LF4 Cadillac.

[@85CEKR]

The transmission is... confusing to most people. It only works properly when it hot, not warm, hot. And I believe it has about a 5000-mile break in tuning or something. Most people test low milage cars. After around 5000k, mine started shifting totally different. It's shifts are now super crisp and crazy fast, but only when it's hot. I get that's an issue for some people, but if you're taking it out for a fun drive the transmission is amazing, and suits the engine perfectly.

[@arejaydubya]

@ That wasn’t it. I test drove 3 of them. All used, with over 10k miles and all of them in AZ summertime temps. Transmission ruined the experience every time. Lexus missed the mark.

[@85CEKR]

@arejaydubya I don't get people's issue with it, I went from a 340i to this, and this is hands down better. It is more involved. What I mean is you have to know how to use it in manual mode to get the best results, but that's what makes it so much more fun.

[@arejaydubya]

@ Makes sense vs a 340i. I was shopping it against C63 AMG’s, CT4 Blackwings and M3’s. Loved the looks and wanted the reliability, but it was just lethargic and not engaging.

[@RobertWill-uq3iv]

At the end of the video, it sounds like you should've gotten the IS 350 in the first place as you were basically looking for a daily driver. Being honest with yourself can save you a TON of time and money. I personally am a car guy. I'll take the V8 regardless of the interior.

[@CarMarketGuy]

I get you and I will someday when I can afford a toy car :)

[@spdlmt307]

It's not a little rare, it's RARE. The dealers get one every couple/few months.

[@CarMarketGuy]

Well this is still a mass produced car, is not a Ferrari or McLaren, so rare I think its a stretch. I am not sure if its the dealers or Lexus creating scarcity but when their halo performance car (the LC500) can be found in higher inventory than the 500 that is a headscratcher for sure.

[@clays1507]

Northeast there’s allows a bunch in stock

[@Mathguy363]

If you’re so picky on the colors, why not just order one? It just seems like a hassle to find a low production vehicle with the exact specs that you want

[@CarMarketGuy]

Ah you have not watched my other videos where I talk about this problem ;) TLDR: Not every Lexus dealer is willing to do an order, most will "try to match" but won't take an ordered car. It's a problem with Toyota as well

[@gleblanc83]

I was going to customize one on the website and have it shipped, I called the dealership and they said they stopped doing that once Covid hit

[@CarMarketGuy]

@@gleblanc83 Exactly, this is one of the issues

[@3IS2UR]

​@@CarMarketGuy I never had issue when I ordered mine, maybe they can tell you are not gonna buy an IS500 when you walked in 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@CarMarketGuy]

@@3IS2UR Then that was a good thing I am not buying a car from people who look down on me.

[@angiesuriel8124]

I stop watching it after that mustard comment 😅 my guy you can’t be cheap when it comes to a car that not gonna break apart 😢

[@CarMarketGuy]

Of course that's why I got the 350