Lexus IS350 vs BMW 335i

By Benjamin Cyr

Battle at the top

BMW and Lexus: two of the most prestigious names in the automobile world. The first has been known for years as a leading provider of sheer driving pleasure, reputation that can only come from European makers, according to many. Lexus, on the other hand, dominates the world market in assembly, dependability, luxury and technology. We can expect nothing less from Toyota’s high-end division.

Now that these two offer their versions of the best front-wheel drive sedan, let’s see if we can determine a winner. The brand new BMW 335i takes on the gorgeous and sleek Lexus IS350. They both are beautifully designed; the German’s robust character and aggressiveness versus the L-finesse of the Lexus whispering fluidity and modernism. An exciting match-up. Regrettably, Infiniti could not provide us with the new G35 2007 which would have spiced things up. In any case, let the contest begin: Let’s get ready to rumble!

Round 1: cabin and design

The reputation of Lexus on this score needs no embellishment, and the IS350 is the proof. The materials come together beautifully and the color scheme work appears flawless. The leather feels ultra rich . The controls are well placed on a dashboard with lighting that takes one’s breath away during nocturnal drives All in all, the cabin screams “modern”.

The rear seats can accommodate two adults but legroom suffers. The I350, lest we forget, is not a big sedan, a fact brought home by the small trunk; do not even think about large bags.

The quality of the materials in the BMW also rates highly. The dashboard, however, seems austere and traditional compared to the modernism of the Lexus.  A more fertile imagination was needed, especially considering the vehicle’s price. The best touch here is the door lighting; a tiny light traces the door’s outline below the side windows. What a wonderful effect at night! These adversaries share a lack of rear space although the BMW can seat four and has more cargo space.

Winner of the first round: Lexus I350

Round 2: the drive train

Albeit, both sedans ship with 6 cylinder engines of similar strength, but the choice of technology could not be different. The Lexus offers two engines: the 2.5 litre V6 which powers the I250 and the stronger I350. We chose the I350 equipped with 3.5 litre V6 developing 306 hp and 277 pound feet of torque. All this energy gets to the back wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission with paddles mounted on the helm. The motor’s suppleness and smoothness stay the course at all speeds, including just below the red line. The absence of a manual gearbox looms large, particularly in a sports sedan. 

BMW runs with the ever-present in-line six cylinders however, after a ten year drought, it brings back a turbocharged power plant. In fact, two small turbos were transplanted onto a 3.0 litre engine which delivers a maximum of 300 hp and  impressive 300 pound feet of torque starting as low as 1500 rpm. Available is a superb six-speed manual transmission and an optional six-speed automatic, both supplying the rear axel. Our test model came with a very precise, short shifting, easy to handle manual.

The BMW’s torque and user friendly, responsive manual transmission seal the second round for the German maker.

Winner of the 2nd round: BMW 335i