Scarlet Pimpernell

Depends on whether you like the status of the sensors showing... http://www.starmoauto.co.uk/reversing_aids.html No sensors that you can see - works well in a relatives S Class, but gives you beeps and no visual. PS Not cheap though...

Sorry mate it was a tongue in cheek comment...it is not a bad engine at all (though maybe not the best either...) My local Toyota dealership told me that the engine destined for the Avensis later this year and the Corolla Verso (which is already launched) have the same 177BHP engine...which incidentally is the same as the 2.2 148 BHP engine in the Avensis already out there... So confuse me further... PS and the New RAV4....and no matter how much cleaner, lighter etc it is claimed to be, or how much torque, the proof in the pudding is in the eating (or driving in this case), and that's where it is good, very good in some ways, but average in others...

I'll try and wangle them for the mats!! The one I tested had all of 80 miles on the clock, but it did sit happily at 70MPH @ 1500 RPM...strange...!! It was just so quiet at motorway speeds... The power band is narrow, and I noticed your comment about 2nd and 3rd gear earlier in the thread. I found that in test drive too. The thing is that it's so fast between 2000 and 3500 revs or so that you really do have to change at that point where the torque starts to die off. My A4 was a 5 speed 1.9 TDI with 130BHP...the Turbo came in at 1650 revs, and was smooth through to 3800 revs or so with all of the 210 lbs of pull. The IS seems to suddenly bring the power in and suddenly lose it above 4000...or that's what I found, hence my comment about it appearing narrowish. Do you find that? First gear was very short, 2nd onwards were brill on the A4. The IS with 6 speeds does need more gear changes than I would have hoped for. But isn't it engaging to drive? I reckon that the Sport, with it's different ratio's would be awseome! And with the Auto the Base/SE/SE-L would have been perrrrrfect!... Maybe in 7 years time when the 3rd edition is out... ;) Lexus I hope you're watching... PS - definately quicker through the gears - quickest of any diesel I have ever driven...there is so much torque...You are sooo lucky... PPS - Insurance - good advice!! Mine is also having a cherished transfer so I will make sure this is all done in advance. In the meantime keep posting on how you're getting on...

I did think about the ICE. Then I thought twICE when I saw the prICE! But there is nothing like have an integrated system in the car. I must admit that I was a little worried about future value...but then that's why I went for the Lexus. Audi A4 S-Line TDI (was my first choice) - BUT new model arrives in 18-24 months so you can knock £4k off just for that! Artists impressions make for a car from iRobot!!!!! Merc C Class (last choice!) but new model arrives in 2007 - so it's already £2-4k less BMW - well soon enough people will realise that there are too many of them...and they are over hyped! Jag - well it drops like a stone in value - it is a Mondeo at the end of the day! Honda Accord 2.4 or CDTi - well has any one seen pics of the new new model for 2008....this current one even with it's 2006 face lift will drop like a stone! You can already get 2.4's with Del Mileage for under £20k! Volvo S60...Come on....! well it is built by intelligent people and driven by Dummies... Saab - well it's more Vectra then aeroplane! I could go on (and these are MHO) Lexus new IS - well other than the Avensis D4D under the bonnet (the only bad point), it is the safest financially me thinks. New Model (so will hold on well), OK the dealers are already Discounting it, but that's because the car sales are low overall. Also, the guys with the Old IS will keep demand on the second hand market for the New IS bouyant for at least 4-5 years...so it hopefully won't get hit too hard! And it's better and more original than the rest...and fab value! At the end of the day - you don't normally buy a car to make money...

Cheers Jamboo - you're be really pleased when you get yours. Just make sure you get all the insurance docs to the dealer in good time. Lexus Poole were really good and chucked in rubber mats , Lexus Teddy, Golf umbrella and a bunch of flowers for the missus, all on top of the £550 discount. I did better on the discount front, so am expecting nothing more than the handshake, but the rubber mats would be great (here's to hoping...)! Door locking etc can be configured. It's part of the "Lexus Personalisation". On the old model it was limited to one or two things and kept resetting...i.e. auto lights on I think. On the new IS there are many more options, but I am not sure if they will reset like the old one: http://www.lexusownersclub.co.uk/forum/ind...showtopic=29224 It's a shame that unlike BMW (when you opt for the iDrive/Sat Nav), you cannot control these settings yourself. One things for sure - I will miss my 50+ MPG ! That's what I regularly got with my Audi A4 at motorway speeds (though I am NOT heavy footed) - and could stretch to well over 750 miles before fillup on mainly motorway journeys - and thats from a 70 litre tank! I too was hoping for something approaching 50 MPG, especially when the engine is showing 1500 RPM at 70 MPH!! It should improve by upto 10% (or did on the Audi) once at 10,000 miles. Also, the engine became smoother and smoother...Oil consumption is something that you have to watch on Diesel,s. The Audi took a litre for every 500 miles to 1500 miles and then it dropped to 1 litre for every 10,000 miles or so by the time I parted with it (at 47000 miles). But then it was 0w30...as thin as water! A relative has an auto boot on his Merc S class, and in Glasgow he went to one of the city centre car parks and hit the button...forgetting the "slop" in the wall of that car park...he was not a happy man! :duh:

Well ... I'm now the proud owner of an Is220d :) :) :) I'll post some pics at the weekend once I get some light. Initial thoughts ... * Fantastic build quality, the cabin is the next level up from my IS300. * MM awsome, definately worth the extra. * Touch screen great, makes using the MM a breeze. * Optitron instruments with the start-up sequence - I could watch this all day. * Stereo really loud with no distortion. * Sat Nav excellent - love the small details like the petrol station icons displaying the logos e.g. shell, esso etc * Compass screen is nice. * Memory points on the map look interesting. You can basically register speed cameras (up to 106) and have the system sound a chime as you approach. * Post code navigation. * At last ... illuminated leccy window switches :) * Small details like the illumination on the air vents so you can see how open/closed they are. * Very comfy seats in front. * Like the rear centre armrest with the integrated console/cup holders. * Bluetooth phone - paired with my Motorola RAZR no problem - can't figure out how to transfer my phone book though. Engine * Some very slight diesel clatter at idle (inside). * Very quite once you get going. (Quieter than my IS300 once above 60 and in sixth gear - very impressed). * Seems pretty nippy ... I was amazed at how quick the amber warning ring kept comming on at 70. It didn't seem like I was doing 70. * No wind noise. * Mostly quiet tyre noise except for poor road surfaces. * Didn't take up above 4000 RPM so can't comment on boominess. I didn't hear anything during my drive home. * Very slight vibration through gear box when caught in wrong gear. You have to work the gearbox alot between 2nd/3rd in start/stop traffic - remember I'm used to an automatic though And ... NO RATTLES WHATSOEVER (yet :D ) Fandabidosy!!! well done mate - I'm sooooo jealous...March...!

Controversial, but.... I am not biased towards Lexus. I never bought the original IS200'cos it's MPG was poor (most of my miles are motorway), and whilst it was different, it was not right. It was smart inside, but too many expanses of shiny plastic. Price aside. It was well made, but not luxurious...it was sporty and all of that, don't get me wrong, but it could never have beaten the competition on anything other than value. It's dynamics etc were average too in MHO...but the engine sounded greeeeeaaat! Let's face it - someones got to say it...the Old IS was made by Toyota, and sold as a Toyota in it's home country...then someone in Toyota thought, lets con everyone, make a few tweaks and sell it as a Lexus for the USA market...Oh yes we'll send it to the UK too... It was like the emperors new clothes; only the faithful don't seem to have seen it. When you see an X Type Jag, those who know say "Mondeo". Those who don't say "Jag"... With the old IS, no one knew until you saw the badge...is it a Toyota or a Lexus... This new IS is a world apart from the old model. I bought the new IS not 'cos it's a Lexus, but because it's better in many ways than the German cars, and it's rarity. It's not just better in terms of Value, but quality and packaging...it is finally a luxurious car. Jamboo Off soap box...

They always tell you that the Balloon payment should represent the amount you will think the car will be worth when you change again...but all of that time the Interest is being charged...on the balloon... They always say that they are doing you a favour with PCP's, i.e. that there is no point paying for the portion of the car that you won't be keeping (i.e. the PEX value). But they charge you for the previlage through Interest! I have managed to get a quote of 3.55% fixed from the Natwest for £12000 over 2 or 3 years...not bad, APR 6.9%, but I haven't haggled with my personal banking manager yet...! At that rate it's better to leave your cash in an ISA and borrow the lot! PS - don't forget that your dealer will be getting commission for the finance, you'll be paying set up/doc fees...sometimes £00's, yet the Banks won't charge you a penny. PPS - You can haggle the rate with the dealer, don't take what they say and accept it!

It is annoying that Lexus are so quiet on this. Where is Mr Mole...? I do know they read these posts with some interest - However, the problem appears to occur on some cars only; I reckon a small percentage (correct if I am wrong - I was told that Lexus Leic haven't had one back yet), and it could be affecting some earlier cars only... Also, a call back could occur, but the brand would be maligned...I'm not sure whether Lexus will just treat this as "collatoral Damage" and just get the dealers to fix each one when reported...or apply the mod to each one whether it rattles or not when it comes in for, say a service. I know VAG do this - they replaced various bits around the clutch assembly without telling me on my A4when it was nearly 3 years old...I saw it on the paperwork on collection...words like "Clutch Assembly Mod - Call Back", but they haden't called me for it... As I stated earlier, I have already had a "senior dealership" assurance that if this problem exists on my car, they will bend over backwards and fix it to my satisfaction...however, those that do have a problem should be contacting the Customer Service centre in the meantime to "air" their concern if the dealer cannot fix it... Does the "Downunder" version suffer from this rattle?

Try this link (off the oficial web site): http://www.lexus.co.uk/lexus_cars/is_new/i...y/wallpaper.asp I believe that they have changed some of their pic's now...but there are still some good'ns. Back on topic, the dealer experience may now start to drop no doubt. The dealerships may have been set some aggressive targets, and may start to try and win new sales rather than look after existing or have the time to deal with each one meticulously...thereby dropping a "ball" every now and again. This is what happens when you cross or muddy the "Quality .v. Quantity" threshold...and I hope Lexus throw resources at maintaining the the "Quality, no matter the quantity" ethos... Incidentally, anyone seen the new IS220d TV Commercial? I saw it on Telly on Friday night... :heart: It's here: http://www.lexus.co.uk/lexus_cars/is_new/i...asp?playvideo=1 All it does is showcase the car, wiythout giving anything away...like a tease...!

You can count me in...

If you can afford to, shop around for everything...it is the second most expensive thing you have your dosh in...(or third after the wife and kids). Lexus Leic so far have been fantastric...though I haven't got my new car yet... They've made me lots of assurances that I will not be disappointed with them...and I do believe them!

You might in breach of their copyright...but I see where you're coming from...may be a recommendation into Lexus would be a good idea once you have seen it...if you're allowed/able to hack into it...I suspect it's encrypted OS. You might want to check with Lexus first?

I went to hand in my Audi yesterday at Lexus Leic (My 220d arrives March). Mentioned all of this to the Business Manager. He explained that as far as he knew none had come back to the dealership with this problem, and Lexus would be monitoring these threads. I am concerned that even this problem being there, they are still rolling cars off the conveyor...I just want to know that anyone who's car is in build will have beem remedied... He gave me loads of confidence in the marque's desire for status #1 when it comes to Customer Sat and Lexus's resolve to stamp out things like this. I am still confident that they will find/fix...so far Lexus Leic have been fantastic...best dealership I have ever dealt with (whatever marque). A letter is a good idea...

Steve, I ordered a 220d Mesa Red base with MM for March 1st delivery. Then after ordering I changed my mind and went for SE... They could not cancel my base but said they would take it anyway, and it's still on order - they might do you a good deal...I opted for the Black interior which I think goes better, harder wearing etc... If your interested contact Christian Holmes 0116 2688500 Lexus Leicester. I know it's miles away from Stockport, but hey, you might get more squids off!! PS it arrives mid Feb...

Hell Yes! You wont regret it, I'm (almost) on my third Lexus. No rattles so far, so not expecting any on the new car. What you gonna bomb around in until March ? Wife's Honda Jazz...I work from home, but end up travelling for work...My allowance in lieu of company car is a perk thing rather than tied for business use so I can officially hire a car for business until mine arrives (they are ever so good to me). You may want to do the same mate - i.e. speak to your dealer and make sure they do check yor car over for rattles...after this shannanigans with your insurance schedule the last thing you'll want is a rattle, I'm sure!! Really can't wait to see what you think and see your pics. I am disappointed that not too many people have posted any real life experiences with the 220d...I genuinely think they're all stacking up for March...or they're too busy enjoying their wheels... PS - Koshime and Saracen both posted some rave reviews, but they seem to have gone quiet...

OK guys - just spoken to my dealer about handing my Audi back (as promised early to geta better PEX value). I will miss the Audi so much (have I done the right thing....someone say "Hell Yes!")..... :o :( Have mentioned the 3 causes of a rattle that I have gleaned from the excellent posts: Speaker Grill on dash Firewall/Battery bracket in engine compartment Padding of main dash bracket and wiring looms I have asked that they contact Lexus GB/Factory and see what's happening. Obviously there would not be a call back as it's not dangerous, but I hope that if nothing they try and cure this for anything on the "conveyor belt" I am seeing them tomorow, and will speak to one of the more experienced guys there (John Browne) to make sure that something is going to happen...especially as they told me about their wonderful customer service... The last "fing" I would want is a car that trattles...I had enough trouble with a Vauxhall Astra - to the extent that I gave it back... and bought my first Toyota...

So there's the answer - a hidden clue... If you park in the garage, front of IS250 facing the back wall...where there is no cold wind...the ambient temperature is a tad higher...the auto choke is hardly needed... Then you reverse out of the garage... :winky: Katyanna3 - don't say you park in a garage and that your choke still stays on longer... PS - and your wiper blades last ages, car stays cleaner, etc!!

Andy, this was my dilemma. I tried the fabric seats. The Bolstored parts are a rough tweady fabric (good quality), and the facings and squabs are made from shinier material with embroidered pattern (again good quality, but...). If you pinch it to check it's thickness, it feels OK, but if you look at the base of the seat squab where it meets the backrest, it can start to stretch and get ripply, and it was like that already on the drivers seat of the one's I tested (one in Birmingham and one in Leicester). I was concerned that it may not wear well, or that if it did, it would get slightly stretchy. We checked it over several times, and in the end I was 50/50...so ended up going for the SE/MM, even though it was slightly over budget...I thinks it's worth the extra... I think the Aussie version is the best - you get standard 16" wheels and leather - 'cos the 17" 245 tyres do roar much more. The benefit of the base is that you do get a slightly comfier ride and less road noise (on some surfaces much less...). Hope this helps. One other thing, I know some of the guys prefer the Beige interiors, but the one in Leicester (both test drive model and showroom car inspite of leather) was already getting "stained" - stick with the darker colours! PS - the MM really compliments the car...

Here another review from Parkers/Mirror... It finally looks as though they are warming to the new IS... http://parkers.mirror.co.uk/choosing/carre...x?model_id=1425 It gets 4 or more for just about everything...except buying second hand...'cos you can't get any....!

Here's to another good report.... http://parkers.mirror.co.uk/choosing/carre...x?model_id=1425 I think they are warming to it...it looks as though the journo's have finally driven one...

I ain't got mine yet, but I am with you. There is clearly a problem...and Lexus should be making any new cars with this problem eliminated NOW. Those of us who haven't yet taken delivery yet should TELL the dealers the we will reject the car...I believe legislation can allow us to do this? Does any "Law" expert know? I am seeing my dealer on Saturday when I hand my Audi over - and will see what he has to say... PS - mine should be somewhere in a Steel works right now (!), as it's not due for Delivery until March and I will be seeking an assurance that this will be put right before the Dash/Windscreen are in... PPS - I suppose these are "teething problems" for a new model...but it would be unacceptable if as you state these problems have been occuring on other models too...fantastic customer satisfaction? Me worries...

Spot on mate - even to drive the beemer was the dullest, drabbest, most unmemorable of the bunch...and really poor value for money. The dealer was trying to sell me a 320d Launch car (54 plate reg'd Jan 05 - yeah they offcially came out in March as 05's), which was decorated like a christmas tree - it had every option worth having for £27.5k. The Lexus is in a different class - a mini Limo... B)

Guys, believe me - waiting until March is like..... I did not know about the freebie insurance...they are keeping that close to the chest...? Anyway, I hope all turns out OK for next week. Good Luck...and start shopping at ASDA! PS - My IS220d/MM Base was coming 1st March, but 'cos we change the spec to SE/MM, it could be later in March (Date TBA). So it's like waiting for a Baby!! The only good thing is that with the Lexus there won't be feeding bottles, disturbed sleep , the emissions will be cleaner....and it'll be cheaper to run!

Am sooooo gutted for you.... Like you say, let grocers be grocers.... Hope it works out for the best...