bmw 328xi vs lexus is250?

Question

can you please help me decide between these two cars. how is the AWD on the lexus compare to the xi.
is it true that there are a lot of mechanical issues with the bmw 325 and that it will have lots of problems?

how does the all wheel drive on the lexus compare to the xdrive of the bmw?

Answer 1

There really is no comparison between these two vehicles.

Now don't get me wrong, I picked an Acura TL over a BMW, and I've only ever owned one German car in my life, so I am not a crazy BMW fan. But seriously you cannot compare these two cars.

The BMW is a perfectly balanced beautiful vehicle. The IS250 is a gutless low power wannabe with too much electronic safety features for its own good. The Lexus is dull, boring, slow, and just doesn't compare on any level to the 328xi. About the only advantage is going to be price.

If you want a AWD sedan in the price range you are looking for, I'd say BMW all the way. I've driven both cars so I know I'm right. Personally I don't even think the Lexus was as nice as my TL. But if you don't believe me, here are some expert reviews.

Edmunds Editor review:

Lexus IS250: 7.8
BMW 3 Series: 8.4
(Editor's Most Wanted Award every year since 1999 in that price class)

Answer 2

Both of those cars have a not-so-great AWD system. They are both set up so that the AWD is always engaged all the time, meaning that even when you don't need the added traction, the wheels are still being spun and you're using more fuel to do it. Do yourself a favor and buy a '07 G35x sedan. Yeah sure it might not have the cache of the Lexus or Bimmer, but it is a lot faster, has an AWD system set up so that it is RWD until it senses slip and then within milliseconds switches to AWD, is a lot faster than the Bimmer or Lexus, handles better, and IMO looks better. It is also the same price, and will be just as reliable as the Lexus since it's japanese (and a lot more reliable than the BMW since BMW is having a lot of problems with reliability). Drive all three and I'm sure you'll see it's a no brainer.

Answer 3

Both use a "viscouis coupling" to direct power from the front to the back (on a Lexus) and back to the front (on BMW). Both work well. I have not heard of any real, chronic problems with the 328/330 but, the actual charges for the maintenance are much higher. The 328/330 is not as reliable as the Lexus per JD POWERS. And, you can take your Lexus to a Toyota dealer for maintenance and save 25-50%. That is, as long as you don't miss the free loaner, the exotic coffee's and teas, the WiFi hook up, the wide screen TV and the childrens play area.
The BMW puts performance and handling first. Are you a corner freak?? Do you like late braking into the apex?? Then the BMW is for you. Otherwise-- go with the Lexus

Answer 4

BMW has always had great AWD. This is just my observation from working in a combined BMW/Lexus dealership for a couple years, but I do not think there is a significant difference in reliability or repair costs, based on the cars that came through our shop. Both can be expensive. My advice is drive both. If you end up preferring the Lexus, then look into some Toyota models, since that is actually what you will be buying.

Answer 5

I have had both and am driving the Lexus now. My husband started driving the BMW after we sold his car and bought me the Lexus. Although the Lexus, is a great car. In my opinion, nothing compares to A BMW. I don't know much about cars as far as mechanics are concerned but between these 2 models the BMW handles better to me. It is tighter and more precise. (Only way I know to explain it) My husband used to drive race cars and likes the Lexus better. He says there is not much room for error in that BMW. I think the Lexus is too loose for me. I can't take turns as quickly, can't turn as sharply, and feel less traction. Also a major difference is that I have more trouble seeing out of the back of the Lexus than the BMW. A little more difficult to switch lanes. I am thinking about the M5 as my next one...Of course, you could speak with my husband and he would tell you the exact opposite. I think it depends on your personal taste. (we also had a 325is that I drove for 8 yrs, no problems at all).

Answer 6

BMWs don't have a lot of mechanical troubles. If you don't abuse it, their mechanicals last forever.

It's the electrical stuff and trim that can give you problems. All the Germans are like this. Germans just don't understand electronics and computers for some reason. It can drive you nuts. I'm very tempted to go with Lexus after my current BMW dies. I'm getting older. Maybe I can live without a fun car to drive. My BMW is already 4 years old and I expect another 4 out of it easy (at least mechanically).

Get the Lexus if you like plush comfiness. Get the BMW if you like driving. I have a friend with a new IS350. Fast in a straight line. Really boring to drive. Great as a commuter car if you're stuck on the freeway all day long (altho the backseat is pretty much nonexistent). If you want to have fun driving though, you gotta take the BMW.

Answer 7

The BMW 328xi you get a great combination of Double Vanos, Steptronic, DOHC, and many more things that improve power and gas consumption. Along with the BMW 328xi you also get one of the best coverages that is out. Now X-drive you will get a system that is constantly adjusting power to wheels, making sure the car doesn't under steer or over steer. Along with X-Drive BMW 328xi also comes with run-flat tires that will make it easier to stay moving if your tire gets a nail.
Now the Lexus IS 250 you will get a engine that also provides alot of power but does not have the technology like BMW that will increase your fuel consumption. Now there AWD system I do not much about but i know a friend who owns a Lexus IS 250 and she says that it works almost flawless in the snow.
Now my personal response I would pick the BMW 328xi because I know what BMW is made of and how good there quality is plus i know that the X-Drive works perfectly because my Sister owns a 2006 X3 and i was driving it and drove it like i was racing in the snow and i never worried about spin out and having no traction. So i would say buy the BMW and plus there about the same price now it is Personal preference.

Answer 8

Check out Consumer Reports reviews of both. Drive both! I have owned a BMW 330xi, and I can honestly say that this was the best car I've ever owned. The all wheel drive is superb. I lived in Montana where it can really snow, and my Beamer never even noticed snow and ice. I could go anywhere with confidence. I don't know about the mechanical issues with a 325, but I never had a problem with the 330. The only reason I don't still have it is because I moved out of the country and it wasn't practical to take it. Do I wish I still had it? You bet. And all else aside, a BMW are is sooo much cooler than a Lexux.

Answer 9

Im going to tell you straight up. I own a BMW and its the greatest car ive ever owned or driven. Lexus are nice sure but you want to walk out in that driveway and feel pride whenever you see the car buy the BMW. you want to actually love your car more by the day , by the month, By the year, GET THE BMW. Lexus is nice but im recommending the BMW. And no there have been no problems with the BMW just elation and joy from the car every day of my life.

Answer 10

****DO NOT GET THE LEXUS Is250****
I brought it and sold it and 30 days.Yes I took a loss, but it was worth it I could not see myself driving that lexus. There is no power. I was afraid to change lane. There is also a defect with the rear view mirror on all IS250. When you turn up the bass on the cd player, and when you go over 60 mph. The mirror will shake. I own a 1999 323i, and my husband has 525i. I will never buy a lexus over BMW. Lexus has the style, but no power.