2007 Lexus IS 350

Welcome to entry-level luxury, one of the most competitive segments in the auto industry. It's important not only because a lot of folks can afford to buy in, but also because the manufacturers hope that if you like what you get, including the image, you'll be a loyal buyer for life as you move up the ladder.


What's really impressive is that as long as entry level has been around, there's pretty much been one king, the BMW 3 Series. Combining style, status and a wonderful driving experience, it's enjoyed a well-earned reign. Of course, being at the top has also made it a target from every other manufacturer from Audi and Acura to Mercedes, Infiniti and Lexus.

Styling

While Lexus has become synonymous with quality, style and luxury, it has often lagged behind the European brands in terms of driving excitement. Lexus made inroads with the previous IS 300 model, which had a lot of development time in Europe before it came here to the U.S. With the 2007 IS 350, Lexus has the BMW 3 Series clearly in its sights.


It can certainly compete in the looks department. While the IS shares a chassis with the larger GS sedan, and a design philosophy called L-Finesse, it has a much more muscular look, like a pro athlete in an impeccably tailored suit. Powerful, yes, but also definitely confident and upscale. In fact, it steals the thunder from the all-new BMW 3 Series, which is also handsome, but there's a feeling of pure aggression in the IS that the 3 cannot match.


So the IS gives a knockout first impression, but does it have the goods?