Acura RSX TypeS or Lexus IS 250 RWD

[GeneralCho]

I'm in the process of purchasing a new car. I'm debating on which one to get. I know that the 2 cars are totally different and not in the same class. I really like them both.

2006 Acura RSX TypeS
($33,400 CAD MSRP),
Pros: less $$$ to purchase, better milage, iVTEC engine, lower finance rate @ 2.8%
Cons: last year of production, 6 yr old technology, FWD (debatable)
http://www.acura.ca/AcuraEng/Models/RSX/InfoNav.htm

2006 Lexus IS250 RWD manual w/ moonroof and leather package
($39,900 CAD MSRP)
Pros: Its a LEXUS, V6 engine, RWD, higher torque, more luxuries and goodies,
Cons: more expensive, cost more for gas, higher finance rate @ 4.8%
http://www.lexus.ca/lexus/experience/en/home/vehicles/BK262M2006/veh_intro.jsp?model=BK262M&year=2006

What do you guys think? My budget is under $40,000. I prefer to buy Japanese cars. Any other suggestions?

Edited:
My requirements: Both cars are within my price range but if I get the TypeS than more $$$ for other electronic goodies, I want it to be luxurious but at the same time fun to drive, cost of gas is high so I want something that is not a gas guzzler, nice performance so I can merge into the highway when I go on my roadtrips to the States and I can't think of anything else right now. Basically, I think both cars offers a unique combination of these charteristics that is why it is hard to decide which one is better.

[PCDawg]

The RSX type S is not in the same category as the IS250.

It should be TSX vs IS250.

If your budget is under $40,000 thne the IS250 is out of you price range. Unless u want just the base model on the IS250 out the door price is about $45000.

[ichpen]

Lexus in my opinion. More refined, better torque, better overall performance.

Gas will not be that much more as the RSX is not the most economical 4 cylinder.

It will cost more than 40k and I'm not sure how much you can haggle with Lexus these days.

[GeneralCho]

The RSX type S is not in the same category as the IS250.

It should be TSX vs IS250.

If your budget is under $40,000 thne the IS250 is out of you price range. Unless u want just the base model on the IS250 out the door price is about $45000.

Yes, I know that the 2 cars are not in the same category. I mentioned it on the first 2 sentences. At the same time, I like them both. I rather buy the RSX TypeS than TSX. I was not talking about the Out the Door Price. I was refering more to the MSRP or before tax price. That is why I also listed the MSRP for each car.
Sorry for the confusion.

[ichpen]

I have a sneaking suspicion you'll see a lot of Lexus recommendations...

[GeneralCho]

Lexus in my opinion. More refined, better torque, better overall performance.

Gas will not be that much more as the RSX is not the most economical 4 cylinder.

It will cost more than 40k and I'm not sure how much you can haggle with Lexus these days.

I know. My friend mentioned that both Toyota and Lexus are not budging with their sticker price. I must agree with you... the Lexus is probably a better choice although it has 4 doors but it still looks sporty and refined at the same time.

[enko]

I'd say these are quite different cars.

IS250 is more luxury despite Lexus attempt at making it look like a "sports" car. The weight will probably soak up the extra torque.

RSX-S a younger car, still very nice inside.

Pick what you want, everyone here will ***** and moan about different things that don't really matter in the end. At the end of the day you're the one stuck driving it every day.

[tonychau]

you don't say what are you looking for?

performance, look, Luxury, price, gas milage

[GeneralCho]

I'd say these are quite different cars.

IS250 is more luxury despite Lexus attempt at making it look like a "sports" car. The weight will probably soak up the extra torque.

RSX-S a younger car, still very nice inside.

Pick what you want, everyone here will ***** and moan about different things that don't really matter in the end. At the end of the day you're the one stuck driving it every day.

Thanks for your advice. But it so hard to decide. I been wanting to buy a RSX TypeS for a couple years now and all of a sudden Lexus comes out with the IS 250 and IS 350 for 2006. The reason I like TypeS is because it is a fun car to drive and because it is still an Integra at heart. Yes, I really like my Integra.

[ichpen]

Thanks for your advice. But it so hard to decide. I been wanting to buy a RSX TypeS for a couple years now and all of a sudden Lexus comes out with the IS 250 and IS 350 for 2006. The reason I like TypeS is because it is a fun car to drive and because it is still an Integra at heart. Yes, I really like my Integra.

Then it sounds like you've made up your mind.

[sshe11]

I think if you add some options to the IS250 it'll get quite a bit more expensive than the RSX ... goto lexus.ca and build one for yourself ... but if I was getting a base model than I'd get the lexus ... but thats my choice, get the car you would wanna drive :) ... go test drive both and fnd out ;) ...

[GeneralCho]

I think if you add some options to the IS250 it'll get quite a bit more expensive than the RSX ... goto lexus.ca and build one for yourself ...

The only option that I am going to add is the Moonroof and Leather Package and it brings the price to $39,900 CAD.

[sshe11]

just updated my last post :)

[bluetroll]

i don't know if you should get a RSX... they're being discontinued after this year.

[enko]

Thanks for your advice. But it so hard to decide. I been wanting to buy a RSX TypeS for a couple years now and all of a sudden Lexus comes out with the IS 250 and IS 350 for 2006. The reason I like TypeS is because it is a fun car to drive and because it is still an Integra at heart. Yes, I really like my Integra.

I would buy the RSX then. My friend has the RSX-S. It's a great car. Interior is nice. It has creature comforts, but it's also nimble and quick. He's turbo'd it, so the FWD kinda sucks.

The new IS pisses me off, although I don't see why, it's still a slow luxury coupe like the IS300. The RWD is the only one available in manual transmission. The AWD, or the 350, are both automatics which I find incredibly stupid. The IS300 was a slow car and I think both IS250's are slow. The 350 is a bit quicker, but incredibly pricy.

Anyways, again, quite different cars, and if you're a big fan of the Integra, I'd get the RSX-S, it's a great successor. The 6 speed transmission is very slick, and since you're use to winding the **** out of the engine to get power from your old integra, you'll be happy with the 8k redline on the RSX-S :)

[masterballer]

i love the Type S but .... its a lexus....... A LEXUS! :)

[Dibble]

Car insurance costs more for 2-door's than 4 door.
The amount of gas you'll save from the RSX vs. the IS would probably end up being less than the amount you'll be paying MORE for car insurance.

So my answer, regardless of that, would still be the IS250.
Why?
You stated you want luxury and the goodies, and the IS has a far superior interior AND exterior than that of the RSX both in terms of quality and design.
If you want speed/performance, you wouldn't get either of those cars and I'd recommend you get a used Lotus Elise for the same price.

The IS definitely has an edge over the RSX, but then again, look at the price difference right?

If I was in the market for a car, I would also get the IS250 over any of the other Lexus's just because of it's more modern/younger gen design, consumes less gas out of all of them, and also has the same luxurious design both inside and outside that you're used to from a Lexus.

[Evil Techie]

IS250 will feel a bit underpowered

this car is best matched with its 3.5L
go for IS350
but i tell ya, definately go with lexus

[warpdrive]

You already have an Integra.

Time to try something very different. Variety man, Variety.

The Lexus is still pretty fun to drive, and its gawk factor is higher since it's new and the RSX is going to be phased out.

Lastly, RWD man, there is no substitute. Experience the way a sporty car is supposed to handle when you push the throttle. The suspension will seem a bit cushy compared to the RSX, but a little bit of aftermarket can take care of that.

And you are right, there is basically no dealing on the Lexus. Need to wait a bit longer for that to start happening.

[mudmojo]

Have you considered which car is more likely to be stolen when you are Stateside?

A car is like everything else in this world... a specific set of compromises.

If this choice is killing you, test drive them both and let your heart pick. :D

[mlc2000]

IS250 will feel a bit underpowered

this car is best matched with its 3.5L
go for IS350
but i tell ya, definately go with lexus

That kind of advice will deplete his pocket book of a further $10,000+.

As another member stated, the RSX is on the way out. They're going to want to unload them from their inventory, so you should be able to get a deal.

The Lexus, on the other hand, is in huge demand. They have no problems selling these cars, in fact, even if they tacked ona 10% premium, they would still sell.
Don't expect any Lexus dealer to offer any deals on the IS.
Expect to pay the sticker price and nothing lower.

A quick comparison of the RSX-S Type and the IS250 (6speed) on GlobeAuto.com (http://cars.globeauto.com/compare/compare.pl)
shows only a handful of advantages over the Lexus, that being :

2006 Acura RSX Type S
$4,500 lower price

2006 Acura RSX Type S
Cargo Volume (L): 126 more
Hip Room (fr, mm): 1297 more
Hip Room (rr, mm): 1174 more


Other than that, Lexus has more advantages.
Lexus has more Horses, more torque and better fuel economy


2006 Lexus IS 250 6AT
Fuel Capacity (L): 15 more
Fuel Econ (city, l/km): 0.6 less
Fuel Econ (hwy, l/km): 0.3 less
Horsepower@rpm: 3 more hp
Torque@rpm: 45 more torque


As a side note, the comparison feature on GlobeAuto.com is superb.
Much better than autonet.ca.

[mlc2000]

Have you considered which car is more likely to be stolen when you are Stateside?


What a paranoid (stupid) comment.

Grow up !

[Coke355mL]

Have you test driven both cars? See how it's like, how it handles, how the interior looks like... etc?

Consider how long you plan to keep this car and if this will be "you" in the next few years.

[new_vr]

The number of door's your car has is the least of your worries. It's more like cost to fix stuff, and how likely the car is to be stolen, and how bad, statistically, previous and current drivers are. The IS could end up being cheaper then, but it has to do with many factors, not just the number of doors. For example, when I was costing out car insurance, the insurance on a WRX was a lot more then on an RX-8


Car insurance costs more for 2-door's than 4 door.
The amount of gas you'll save from the RSX vs. the IS would probably end up being less than the amount you'll be paying MORE for car insurance.

So my answer, regardless of that, would still be the IS250.
Why?
You stated you want luxury and the goodies, and the IS has a far superior interior AND exterior than that of the RSX both in terms of quality and design.
If you want speed/performance, you wouldn't get either of those cars and I'd recommend you get a used Lotus Elise for the same price.

The IS definitely has an edge over the RSX, but then again, look at the price difference right?

If I was in the market for a car, I would also get the IS250 over any of the other Lexus's just because of it's more modern/younger gen design, consumes less gas out of all of them, and also has the same luxurious design both inside and outside that you're used to from a Lexus.

[Neb]

lexus forsure, if you can afford it, why not? the IS is a beautiful car.

[AirBosh]

Whats the on the road price for rsx type s these days?

[mlc2000]

For example, when I was costing out car insurance, the insurance on a WRX was a lot more then on an RX-8

If you're referring to the STi, small wonder - these things are over-powered pocket rockets and the insurers know that its not going to used for getting groceries and taking kids to soccer.

[gilboman]

not even a fair comparison..the RSX-S is an economy sporty coupe while the IS is an entry level sportsedan with RWD, I6, way nicer interior and a lot more gadgets etc...

depensd what you like..but for anywhere near the same price..the IS is in a much higher league than the RSX-S.

[mlc2000]

According to Acura.ca

Finance Calculator
2005 RSX Type S 6-speed manual

MSRP $33,000.00
Freight & PDA $1,280.00
Taxes and Levies $5,343.25

Total Price $39,623.25

Thats MSRP.
U should be able to get a discount.




Whats the on the road price for rsx type s these days?

[warpdrive]

Total Price $39,623.25

Thats MSRP.
U should be able to get a discount.

Just a guess, but I'd expect around $2000 off that price after negotiation.
The Lexus will run about $8-9K more due to no discounting.

[AirBosh]

Just a guess, but I'd expect around $2000 off that price after negotiation.
The Lexus will run about $8-9K more due to no discounting.

$37g is good price for a type s. I just did an auto quote from meloche monnex website and I was quoted $4136 a year damn!! I'm over 25 and no accidents knock on wood.

[mlc2000]

Just a guess, but I'd expect around $2000 off that price after negotiation.
The Lexus will run about $8-9K more due to no discounting.

I agree, perhaps the seller was unaware that they would be choosing between 2 cars with a spread of almost $10K ?

MSRP really means nothing, unlesss the car is popular.

Like when the TL came onto the scene in 1999.

At $36,999, it was a steal.
There was nothing on the market that could touch it.

My wife's family has bought Acura's for years including a few Legends from the same dealership (Father-in-law still has a 92 Coupe,mint!).

Even with that history, my wife still paid $36,999.

Supply and demand rules.
Just like you're not going to get a discount on a new Mustang convertible.
They can't build enuff of them.

[airodus]

Both good cars. The Lexus is a much better package all around. It's just a matter of if it is worth the extra money to you. Either way you won't go wrong.

[mlc2000]

$37g is good price for a type s. I just did an auto quote from meloche monnex website and I was quoted $4136 a year damn!! I'm over 25 and no accidents knock on wood.


Wow, you must have some serious skeletons in the closet.
I drive 28K/yr, its 45km one way to work and my quote is $ 1934.00

[konfusion666]

Wow, you must have some serious skeletons in the closet.
I drive 28K/yr, its 45km one way to work and my quote is $ 1934.00

yeah but aren't you like 50 or something? :razz:

[mlc2000]

yeah but aren't you like 50 or something? :razz:
42, wiseass! :mad:

[konfusion666]

42, wiseass! :mad:

sorry, boss >:(

It seems being over 25 and "clean" doesn't mean a hell of a lot anymore.

there's such a huuuuuuge diff on insurance between my rate and that of my parents, even considering their rate is a joint rate which covers 2 cars while mine only covers a single car.

[Yannai]

You might want to look into buying the lexus in the US. Edmunds.com has the price at about $USD 32,000 with the options you want including freight/pdi.

Toyota USA honours their warranty in Canada, so I asume Lexus does as well. The only issue is that you will likely have to find an alternative source of financing.

Cost to get over the border is $209 import paperwork fee + GST paid at the border + pst paid upon registration. There are some threads on this topic kicking around.

[airodus]

$37g is good price for a type s. I just did an auto quote from meloche monnex website and I was quoted $4136 a year damn!! I'm over 25 and no accidents knock on wood.

Wow, I'm 25 and I pay $1150 a year with Meloche Monnex (primary driver). This is for an A4 quattro.

[Andro]

I would go with lexus.....why? because it's got more classy look and it's a lexus.......but if you like the rsx type-s styling then you should probably pick that one, it's got faster accel,cheaper,fwd(if you plan on driving it in winter), personally i just didn't pick it since i don't like it's shape.

[mudmojo]

What a paranoid (stupid) comment.

Grow up !

I must have missed the post where you became the decision making half of the OP's brain. :confused:

Asking others to grow up when their views don't coincide with yours is quite immature. Irony is not without her sense of humour it seems.




If you're referring to the STi, small wonder - these things are over-powered pocket rockets and the insurers know that its not going to used for getting groceries and taking kids to soccer.


One day I hope to be a low skill driver and a mind reader like yourself... on second thought, I'll pass on the low skill driver part. ;)

[DJ_Peanuts22]

To the OP, No point of getting an RSX if you already have an Integra, as it will be phased out soon like warpdrive said earlier.... The two cars you chosen are not comparable, as the IS is obviously going to be the better built car since it's higher end.

[shin]

If affordable, why not go for lexus?

[johnwayne]

Both are nice cars.

I would consider the RSX over the IS250 if you are a student commuting, early 20’s or as a second car. The RSX is a nice, fun ride (I find, more so than the IS) and it’s faster than the IS250. It has a rev happy very eager engine. Cost of maintenance will most likely be lower (than the IS250).

I would go for with the IS250 if you are done school, looking long term or have a family. The IS is a comfortable ride, and fun to drive. Aesthetically, the IS250 is better and in fact, the cabin is made very rigid. The Lexus name has a more prestigious badge. The IS has more standard features and a better sound system.

Might have missed a few things, but that is what I can come up with at the moment.

[belgiangenius]

The RSX-S is WAY overpriced for what it is...

[marcsterr]

i have an rsx-s right now..but if i had to choose..id probably opt for the is250 instead...better bang for the buck

[DJ_Peanuts22]

The RSX is going getting axed after this year as there is no 2007 RSX.
Acura plans to move more "upscale" and their cheapest model will now be the TSX.

The performance of the new Civic SIR can already match or beat that of the RSX's and is cheaper. This should be the car to consider if your getting an entry level sporty coupe.

[radeonboy]

I havent read anything except the OP post.

You know what I would do? Wait till the end of this year when the RSX is discontinued and go in and bargain your ass off MSRP. I fully expect them to clear out any RSX they have so you may be lucky in getings lots off the MSRP.

[Vickel]

I say the is250
its got 4 doors, easier for passengers
and there are way too many RSX's on the street
the is250 has more of a luxurious appeal after all it is a lexus.
and i think it will be worth more than the RSX when you need to sell it

[airodus]

The RSX is going getting axed after this year as there is no 2007 RSX.
Acura plans to move more "upscale" and their cheapest model will now be the TSX.

The performance of the new Civic SIR can already match or beat that of the RSX's and is cheaper. This should be the car to consider if your getting an entry level sporty coupe.

Although I agree that Acura has to move upscale, but what about the CSX?

[mlc2000]

Although I agree that Acura has to move upscale, but what about the CSX?
CSX=re-branded EL

[mlc2000]

The OP asked which car is better.

You reply with a question of which car might be stolen more often stateside.
Thats a ridiculous comment, and it has no merit in the discussion.

I'll put my 25+ yrs of driving with zero accidents (low skill?) up against anyone. Including you.


I must have missed the post where you became the decision making half of the OP's brain. :confused:

Asking others to grow up when their views don't coincide with yours is quite immature. Irony is not without her sense of humour it seems.




One day I hope to be a low skill driver and a mind reader like yourself... on second thought, I'll pass on the low skill driver part. ;)

[gilboman]

CSX=re-branded EL

CSX=rebranded EL = Civic :lol:

[importpsycho]

if you can afford, get IS
i went to lexus show room and just seat in a IS250... OMFG!!
i didn't even take it out for a drive and I felt in love
I had 02 RSX-S and I loved it but no way is it comparbale to IS250
just so happens I'm also looking for new car
I really wanted IS250 but after tax it's nearly 50g
I can only go for low 40g so no IS250 for me >:(

[masterballer]

The RSX-S is WAY overpriced for what it is...

yup, for the same price u can get a wrx which would rape it in performance. i was lookin at used 02 s and wrx and they cost around the same, but its like 1.1 sec slower 0-60 and only FWD vs the subarus AWD

[superdeals]

Car insurance costs more for 2-door's than 4 door.
The amount of gas you'll save from the RSX vs. the IS would probably end up being less than the amount you'll be paying MORE for car insurance.

So my answer, regardless of that, would still be the IS250.
Why?
You stated you want luxury and the goodies, and the IS has a far superior interior AND exterior than that of the RSX both in terms of quality and design.
If you want speed/performance, you wouldn't get either of those cars and I'd recommend you get a used Lotus Elise for the same price.

The IS definitely has an edge over the RSX, but then again, look at the price difference right?

If I was in the market for a car, I would also get the IS250 over any of the other Lexus's just because of it's more modern/younger gen design, consumes less gas out of all of them, and also has the same luxurious design both inside and outside that you're used to from a Lexus.


Ahem, Insurance for Lexus will be way more than Acura! Two door/four door issue comes later. Always remember, MSRP has big impact on Insurance. For Lexus IS250, I would say, does not get favorable review from the Industry. If you really want lexus with 'sporty ride' go for IS 350.

[GeneralCho]

Thanks for everyone's inputs especially from the guys who are current owners of the TypeS. Really helped me on deciding which car to purchase. Right now, I am leaning toward the IS250 RWD manual.

I took the IS250 RWD (only the auto was available) for a test drive and the performance on it was pretty good. Probably the same as my friend's Mazda6 Sport V6. I got a feeling that the RSX TypeS may be a little faster once it hits the higher RPMs. Anybody test drove or currently own the IS250 RWD manual and can let me know how the 6-speed transmission feels?

In terms of luxury, once you sit in the IS250, you will instantly fall in love with it. Personally, I think the interior is nicer than the Acura TL. In addition, the exterior on the IS250 looks aggresisve and elegant at the same time. I think the Lexus gives off a more prestigious image.

BUT I should definitely check the insurance cost for the 2 cars. The only reasons I may purchase a RSX TypeS if the insurance cost is lower and I can get a HUGE discount.

[GeneralCho]

Ahem, Insurance for Lexus will be way more than Acura! Two door/four door issue comes later. Always remember, MSRP has big impact on Insurance. For Lexus IS250, I would say, does not get favorable review from the Industry. If you really want lexus with 'sporty ride' go for IS 350.

Really??? bad reviews. What were some of the problems or weaknesses of the IS250? I wish I can afford the IS350.... HUGE price difference. If I can afford the IS350, I would rather buy the G35 Coupe.

[GeneralCho]

Although I agree that Acura has to move upscale, but what about the CSX?

True. The CSX is the equivalent to the European Civic. More like a downgrade to me.

[i-o_o-i]

Lexus IS250 is one hot car! :D

[gilboman]

Ahem, Insurance for Lexus will be way more than Acura! Two door/four door issue comes later. Always remember, MSRP has big impact on Insurance. For Lexus IS250, I would say, does not get favorable review from the Industry. If you really want lexus with 'sporty ride' go for IS 350.

actually no..RSX insurance is crazy expensive. MSRP doesnt have big impact actually ;) it's all about the risk group its in. the RSX-S is much higher risk vehicle to insure than the IS. MSRP doesnt play that big of a role

e.g. in family..RSX (base, 2000 auto, high km) is three times more expensive than a 2004 lexus with 60k MSRP . both with full coverage.

[chicadam]

I'd get the IS250, why?
- Looks much much better, more wow factor
- RWD, sportier feel
- Interior is really luxurious, comparable to the Audis
- More torque, IMO more fun to drive
- Newer technology, again more wow factor
- Lexus are reliable cars, better warranty as well
- Better re-sale value...
etc....

If you can afford the IS, I think this would be an obvious choice.

I'm not sure what superdeals is writing about but the IS got excellent reviews. The IS350 is in another ballpark all together.

[dragon173]

Another vote for the IS250. i would pay alittle extra and get the AWD.

i am also deciding on this as well

[Faeton]

If you're looking at the RSX, why not get used and save $15k + vs the Lexus (can't really get that used, just came out).

That being said, I really like the new Lexus (especially in the pearl white), but in Canada, it's *really* overpriced compared to the USA, and the packages available aren't that great (WTF, $10k available in options, but still no Nav?!?)

[belgiangenius]

Canadians always get screwed on luxury products. With the exchange sitting at ~15%, we're still paying a 50% premium over U.S. prices on the same merchandise. Most of the premium stuff I buy comes from the U.S. for this reason. The 15% tax here compounds the problem.

I just ordered a new 150GB WDC Raptor from the U.S. and easily saved $100 over buying it in Canada.

[importpsycho]

yea base IS350 is $36000US that's about $40000 canadian
yet our IS350 starts at $49000 something...

[dealers]

How do you know if RSX is being discountinued after this year?

Any source?



i don't know if you should get a RSX... they're being discontinued after this year.

[GeneralCho]

How do you know if RSX is being discountinued after this year?

Any source?

http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=543950

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=115523

http://www.globalauto.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=422&Itemid=2

[feet_]

ever considered..

1. nissan g35
2. 350z
3. sti
4. rx8

[importpsycho]

ever considered..

1. nissan g35
2. 350z
3. sti
4. rx8

he's not sure about getting IS250 cuz it's too expensive both car and insurance and you ask him to consider even more expensive cars....sigh...

[Faeton]

Here are a few other recommendations that might fit the bill

- Subaru Legacy GT
- Audi A3
- MazdaSpeed 3
- lightly used Infiniti G35 or BMW 325ci

I would strong suggest that you look into used cars, as cars around your price range drop considerably with only 2 years of use.

[Riffer]

IS250 - Does anyone know why the Mark Levinson sound isn't included in the luxury package? Pretty annoying :mad: