Lexus IS350 vs BMW 335i
By Benjamin Cyr
Winner of the fourth and final round: Lexus IS350
Final tally: 2 to 2!
We can’t end this battle by simply concluding that BMW and Lexus drove to a tie. I know you want a winner so we’ll leave the numbers and features aside for a moment. The only criterion which determines a champion is sheer driving pleasure, the passion instilled by the ride. In this case, the 335i takes it though I need not remind you of the excellence represented by both competitors.
Note: the engine of our 335i coupe will power the four-door sedan in 2007 because the 330i has been replaced by the 335i. Interesting for those who want performance and practicality.
Other comments: René
As Benjamin demonstrated, you can’t beat a good face to face match-up to truly compare the products.
Aside from the various criteria weighted by Ben, a look at reliability and maintenance costs, I think, might have tipped the balance the other way. BMW, unfortunately, has experienced failures in recent years, as have all the German makers. This, while the Japanese make constant progress, as witness the Lexus. Granted, the additional maintenance costs are not overwhelming for someone willing to pay $50,000 for a car yet I’m convinced of its importance.
I loved driving the new 335i mainly because of the power and motor music. The reliability and sporty feel, however, put me in the IS 350’corner. I simply fell in love with it.
Likes:
- impressive power and torque;
- synchronisation of the manual transmission;
- unique handling
Dislikes:
- stiff price of the options;
- the suspension’s occasional stiffness;
- factory installations.
Lexus Is350 2007
Likes:
- high degree of refinement;
- L-finesse design;
- combination of looks and performance.
Dislikes:
- absence of a manual transmission;
- intermittent lacklustre handling;
- small trunk.
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