Hmmm, not so sure (m) (archive)

I think you will see the IS300 at lots of driving events. This car's direct competition is the 323 if you ask me (the 328/330 at $8,000 similarly equiped are not in the same league). So directly comparing the 323 to the IS300, Lexus has created a car that seriously outperforms the BMW product. Also based on who was at the Lexus event I attended (and I understand we are talking about different driving events now), I think Lexus is marketing this car at a much younger group of people.

I do not agree about the price being "due to the fact BMW has better brand recognition" - that's bunk. BMW charges more for their cars probably because they are a smaller company and do not have the economies of scale that Toyota has. Don't get me wrong, I happily paid the extra money for my 540 because it offers me a car I can not get anywhere else that performs like no other car in its category.

I do however agree that Lexus' are quieter and BMW's are getting quieter - that's good for the older folks, bad for the younger. I am amazed at how quiet the new 328 is compared to my 325 - whether that is good or bad is up to the buyer however but seeing as BMW sells every car they make, I think that is what people prefer (good or bad).

Finally, it sucks that I pay $55K for a car that does not come with a UGDO or auto on headlights (anyone know why BMW leaves those out?) - but you are correct if you think I would do it over and over and over again cause DAMN they make a special car.

Doug

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