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If you don’t want a convertible, which rules out the MX-5 as my easy first pick, then the 86 is the car for driving enjoyment on a reasonable budget. But don’t overlook its Subaru twin, the BRZ, which is my choice of the two. Both get The Tick, having shared our Car of the Year award.
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The Benz is so far ahead of the Lexus that it's not even a contest. The C-Class gets The Tick and is also one of the favourites for our Car of the Year award. I wouldn't bother with the C250 unless it has some standard features you like, because the C200 is a brilliant car.
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It is very low kays to have to machine the discs. The squeal you're hearing is not normal, so I would take the car to a brake specialist, who I'm sure would be able to help you fix the problem. Maybe the discs don't need replacing. If they do you could use aftermarket rotors, which should be cheaper than the factory ones.
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There's no range of accessories per se for the Lexus IS, but you can option the Enhancement Packs on Luxury and F Sport grades, which add a number of additional items. And you can also choose the interior colour you want, depending on the exterior paint you choose. The three interior colour options include black, dark rose (red) or ochre (brown/tan).
It hasn't changed as much as it should have. The brand has been pretty reserved with the enhancements in the cabin, though the new 10.3-inch touchscreen - which now sits 15cm closer - is finally equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Still no wireless charging, no USB-C charging, and no head-up display. It's looking and feeling its age in here, and the back seat space and storage could be better too.
There are five seats in the Lexus IS, but only the F Sport models get full leather trim. The others are fake leather. That's cool in an eco-way, but maybe you really want cow hide. The fifth seat - the middle rear - is largely theoretical, too, as the back is pretty tight.
We asked Lexus Australia for 0-100km/h sprint times for the new-look Lexus IS, but the company said it doesn't have them. The IS350 would be quickest of the three, though.