Throttle response was immediate and turn-in was sharp, so it's easy
to imagine that with the time to explore the learning curve, one could really harness all the tools the 350 offers and all the horsepower available at every dip of the foot. It's really silly to say that I could handle a bit stiffer damping, but I couldn't help but feel that the 350 was a little loose in corners when pushed, and while its low drag body shape helps reduce noise and benefits fuel efficiency, it seems to create lift at high speeds, which doesn't inspire complete faith in its superior road holding. I'll take a little more downforce with my 300+ horsepower, thank you.
I've drifted into a series of finnicky complaints now, I suppose, which means it's time to wrap up before I start discussing the design of the nav system icons (which are cool) and the texture of the trunk carpeting (no idea). It's easy to get finicky with this car because it is SO good. Whenever something gets so good, you start holding it up to higher laws that define perfection, and then you begin to realize its flaws in an awful hurry. That's where Lexus is going, inching toward perfection with all of its flawed predictive systems and still slightly short of connected feeling. Make no mistake, though, Lexus will not stop until it reaches perfection; after all, "The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection" was, and still by most peoples' accounts, is their motto.
Specifications (IS 350):
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| Sharp L-Finesse styling leads to slightly weak-kneed steering feel once speed is put on. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
I've drifted into a series of finnicky complaints now, I suppose, which means it's time to wrap up before I start discussing the design of the nav system icons (which are cool) and the texture of the trunk carpeting (no idea). It's easy to get finicky with this car because it is SO good. Whenever something gets so good, you start holding it up to higher laws that define perfection, and then you begin to realize its flaws in an awful hurry. That's where Lexus is going, inching toward perfection with all of its flawed predictive systems and still slightly short of connected feeling. Make no mistake, though, Lexus will not stop until it reaches perfection; after all, "The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection" was, and still by most peoples' accounts, is their motto.
Specifications (IS 350):
- Price Range (IS 350 MSRP): $48,900 - $59,700
- Price as Tested: $53,700 (+$1596 for Pirelli Snowsport Winter Tires)
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, RWD
- Engine: 306-hp, 277 lb-ft of torque, 3.5L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Transmission: 6-spd auto with paddle-shift manual mode
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD, BA
- Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,575 / 1,800 / 1,425 / 2,730 mm (180.1 / 70.9 / 56.1 / 107.4 in)
- Curb Weight: 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs)
- Tires (front/rear): 225/40R18 / 255/40R18
- Cargo Volume: 378 L (13.3 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.2 / 8.4 L/100 km
- Observed Fuel Economy: 12.9 L/100 km
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 72/110,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Acura TL, Audi A4 3.2 quattro, BMW 330i, Cadillac CTS 3.6, Mercedes-Benz C350, Infiniti "Slow" G35, Saab 9-3 Aero, Volvo S60R
- Web Site: www.lexus.ca
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