As a current IS300 owner I was really looking forward to the new version and had high hopes it would cure some of the cars shortfalls.
I would be in the market for a 250AWD, however, like many on this forum find the pricing moronic. I can't believe I have to spend $50,000 to get HID lights! The equipment in the luxury package really should be found in the premium package.
The other major shortfall is the size. My IS is tiny and I felt even more cramped in the 2005. The windshield seems small and overall it makes for a causterphobic cabin. The rear seats are a total joke. I am not expecting TownCar like proportions, but the fact that the rear seat is basically unusable basically ruled this car out for me.
I know there is a market for small, sport sedans but if they had been able to stretch it a bit, it would certainly appeal to more people.
My last gripe is the cup holder...but lets not go there.
Oh well, back to the drawing board...