How's a Brera coming off an IS250 in your opinion?
Discussion
I have an IS250, which I like quite a lot. I bought it on a impulse, thinking I could just sell it if I found something else. But I really enjoy the quality, solidity and features. I like the looks and still think it looks great. Mine is a very late one with the last facelift. I enjoy driving it. Plus mine is a manual. In this day and age, any four door saloon which is RWD and manual is basically not a real option. It's my daily driver. I enjoy driving it. Every time I think of selling, I fail to find a real suitable replacement.
But I have had it for a while now and am starting to fancy a change. The problem I have is going much newer I will either lose RWD, manual, or the V6 and possibly petrol. So instead of going newer I have thought maybe going different instead is a good option.
I have always fancied driving a coupe as a daily. But to sacrifice the practicality of four doors, it would need to be something somehow special. Not meaning necessarily faster, louder, more powerful, or a badge job for status. Special in a different way. So probably something Italian, with some style and flare. But nothing which would break the bank. Given all that I have set my sights on a Brera V6.
They are rare and I have not much experience driving them. But coming from a IS250, which is comfy, feature reach, creamy V6, has been nothing but reliable, is a joy which grows on you and gets under your skin, I fear I might regret it. I can't keep both for lack of space, having 3 cars. And if I regret, I will not find another IS like mine. It's a rare spec.
What do you think? Chance of regretting are strong or worth taking? I know only I can answer that. But I'm posting that on the off chance somebody has been in my shoes and have had both, or experience enough with them to share experiences.
I'm aware of the Brera shortcomings. Such as being on the heavy side. But the IS is not lightweight either. Or that it doesn't have the Busso. Couldn't care less. I like the way it looks, the interior, and having an AWD V6 petrol manual which looks that special and is Italian appeals.
But I have had it for a while now and am starting to fancy a change. The problem I have is going much newer I will either lose RWD, manual, or the V6 and possibly petrol. So instead of going newer I have thought maybe going different instead is a good option.
I have always fancied driving a coupe as a daily. But to sacrifice the practicality of four doors, it would need to be something somehow special. Not meaning necessarily faster, louder, more powerful, or a badge job for status. Special in a different way. So probably something Italian, with some style and flare. But nothing which would break the bank. Given all that I have set my sights on a Brera V6.
They are rare and I have not much experience driving them. But coming from a IS250, which is comfy, feature reach, creamy V6, has been nothing but reliable, is a joy which grows on you and gets under your skin, I fear I might regret it. I can't keep both for lack of space, having 3 cars. And if I regret, I will not find another IS like mine. It's a rare spec.
What do you think? Chance of regretting are strong or worth taking? I know only I can answer that. But I'm posting that on the off chance somebody has been in my shoes and have had both, or experience enough with them to share experiences.
I'm aware of the Brera shortcomings. Such as being on the heavy side. But the IS is not lightweight either. Or that it doesn't have the Busso. Couldn't care less. I like the way it looks, the interior, and having an AWD V6 petrol manual which looks that special and is Italian appeals.
IS250 is one of the best lexus saloons for all those points you listed. I had one and then spent more money buying a IS300h and didn't think it was much of an upgrade at all.
Brera V6 will look and sound great but will likely be the relationship you've got with the lexus in reverse. Unless you have blind endless love for them.
Brera V6 will look and sound great but will likely be the relationship you've got with the lexus in reverse. Unless you have blind endless love for them.
SPKR said:
What do you think? Chance of regretting are strong or worth taking? I know only I can answer that. But I'm posting that on the off chance somebody has been in my shoes and have had both, or experience enough with them to share experiences.
I’m considering selling a car I love, that is rare, well specified, RWD, manual and has six cylinders - a BMW 130i - as I don’t get to enjoy it where I live on the outskirts of London (I’d rather live elsewhere and keep the car, but that’s not an option) but absolutely would not change the car in your situation. You seem to enjoy the IS a lot, it’s a rare spec, has treated you well and the Brera will sacrifice comfort, reliability, practicality and probably a number of the Lexus’s features just for looks and AWD. That sounds like a poor exchange to me and will looks and AWD keep you happy if you miss any of the Lexus’s traits?
“Quality, solidity and features” plus AWD, V6, manual and coupe elements make me think of a TT 3.2 V6, which I believe is a mammoth 300kgs or so lighter than the Alfa. Might that be a better fit for you? Pick the right colour and wheel combo and that could have decent style and flare I’d say…
The problem you will find here on PH is the anti Alfa or anti Italian bias. Really hard to get unbiased and realistic opinions. People who have not even driven the cars or did a single test drive will post opinions based on articles or just the usual trash about anything not German not being worth it.
But as far as Brera, IMO, the 2.2 is not worth bothering. But you are looking at the 3.2, which adds the V6, meaning more charisma, better sound and more power. In addition to the AWD system which is basically the same system used by the expensive Quattros. So it beats the cheap AWD Audis. The negatives are as you already know and don't seem bothered. Very special looking cars for sure. Hard to think of anything which feels as special, exotic and rare at the price point. Nothing German will qualify for sure. Unless we go into supercar territory. For Italian, the next step is a Maserati 3200 GT or Coupe. Quite a bit more money and a lot more even for maintenance. You might see suggestions of 350Z, 370Z and the like as alternatives. But neither is any special, and compared to the Brera in that regard are pretty boring, common fare. Brera is also a GT. See it as a "luxury GT" type. Nothing like a Nissan Z.
As for comparison to the IS250, they are like 2 sides of the same coin. Not too many things in common apart from both being V6 cruisers. So I guess you will need to choose your priorities.
You may eventually regret it from a maintenance point of view. But might feel the rest makes up for it. Best would be do an extended test drive. Perfect would be finding a dealer which would let you borrow it for like a week or a few days. But not too much of a chance I guess.
But as far as Brera, IMO, the 2.2 is not worth bothering. But you are looking at the 3.2, which adds the V6, meaning more charisma, better sound and more power. In addition to the AWD system which is basically the same system used by the expensive Quattros. So it beats the cheap AWD Audis. The negatives are as you already know and don't seem bothered. Very special looking cars for sure. Hard to think of anything which feels as special, exotic and rare at the price point. Nothing German will qualify for sure. Unless we go into supercar territory. For Italian, the next step is a Maserati 3200 GT or Coupe. Quite a bit more money and a lot more even for maintenance. You might see suggestions of 350Z, 370Z and the like as alternatives. But neither is any special, and compared to the Brera in that regard are pretty boring, common fare. Brera is also a GT. See it as a "luxury GT" type. Nothing like a Nissan Z.
As for comparison to the IS250, they are like 2 sides of the same coin. Not too many things in common apart from both being V6 cruisers. So I guess you will need to choose your priorities.
You may eventually regret it from a maintenance point of view. But might feel the rest makes up for it. Best would be do an extended test drive. Perfect would be finding a dealer which would let you borrow it for like a week or a few days. But not too much of a chance I guess.
Edited by Shifter1 on Monday 14th August 21:36
Canon_Fodder said:
The lexus with is popular with the 'bruv' demographic and so has usually been abused and uninsured and will stink of weed.
So basically in many ways, the same as a Merc or Bimmer of same vintage.By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.
Shifter1 said:
Canon_Fodder said:
The lexus with is popular with the 'bruv' demographic and so has usually been abused and uninsured and will stink of weed.
So basically in many ways, the same as a Merc or Bimmer of same vintage.By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.
RoVoFob said:
Shifter1 said:
Canon_Fodder said:
The lexus with is popular with the 'bruv' demographic and so has usually been abused and uninsured and will stink of weed.
So basically in many ways, the same as a Merc or Bimmer of same vintage.By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.
Shifter1 said:
RoVoFob said:
Shifter1 said:
Canon_Fodder said:
The lexus with is popular with the 'bruv' demographic and so has usually been abused and uninsured and will stink of weed.
So basically in many ways, the same as a Merc or Bimmer of same vintage.By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.
RoVoFob said:
Shifter1 said:
RoVoFob said:
Shifter1 said:
Canon_Fodder said:
The lexus with is popular with the 'bruv' demographic and so has usually been abused and uninsured and will stink of weed.
So basically in many ways, the same as a Merc or Bimmer of same vintage.By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.
Are you still hurt because I dismissed your suggestion in that thread months/years ago, asking for special 6 cylinder cars or something of the nature and you suggested your run of the mill BMW 4 door hatchback as a sports car or anything special? Get it over it already. Life is too short.
RoVoFob said:
SPKR said:
What do you think? Chance of regretting are strong or worth taking? I know only I can answer that. But I'm posting that on the off chance somebody has been in my shoes and have had both, or experience enough with them to share experiences.
I’m considering selling a car I love, that is rare, well specified, RWD, manual and has six cylinders - a BMW 130i - as I don’t get to enjoy it where I live on the outskirts of London (I’d rather live elsewhere and keep the car, but that’s not an option) but absolutely would not change the car in your situation. You seem to enjoy the IS a lot, it’s a rare spec, has treated you well and the Brera will sacrifice comfort, reliability, practicality and probably a number of the Lexus’s features just for looks and AWD. That sounds like a poor exchange to me and will looks and AWD keep you happy if you miss any of the Lexus’s traits?
“Quality, solidity and features” plus AWD, V6, manual and coupe elements make me think of a TT 3.2 V6, which I believe is a mammoth 300kgs or so lighter than the Alfa. Might that be a better fit for you? Pick the right colour and wheel combo and that could have decent style and flare I’d say…
But the AWD is not really any attraction to me. I would rather it be RWD. But take the AWD over the FWD options. What attracts me in the Brera is the looks, flare, the interior, the nice sounding V6 and the Italianess. Just fancy something different and the Brera is quite exotic. All the things the TT doesn't do, for me. Never liked the looks of them and don't see them as any special. Others might disagree. All things VW are just so common here.
Shifter1 said:
The problem you will find here on PH is the anti Alfa or anti Italian bias. Really hard to get unbiased and realistic opinions. People who have not even driven the cars or did a single test drive will post opinions based on articles or just the usual trash about anything not German not being worth it.
But as far as Brera, IMO, the 2.2 is not worth bothering. But you are looking at the 3.2, which adds the V6, meaning more charisma, better sound and more power. In addition to the AWD system which is basically the same system used by the expensive Quattros. So it beats the cheap AWD Audis. The negatives are as you already know and don't seem bothered. Very special looking cars for sure. Hard to think of anything which feels as special, exotic and rare at the price point. Nothing German will qualify for sure. Unless we go into supercar territory. For Italian, the next step is a Maserati 3200 GT or Coupe. Quite a bit more money and a lot more even for maintenance. You might see suggestions of 350Z, 370Z and the like as alternatives. But neither is any special, and compared to the Brera in that regard are pretty boring, common fare. Brera is also a GT. See it as a "luxury GT" type. Nothing like a Nissan Z.
As for comparison to the IS250, they are like 2 sides of the same coin. Not too many things in common apart from both being V6 cruisers. So I guess you will need to choose your priorities.
You may eventually regret it from a maintenance point of view. But might feel the rest makes up for it. Best would be do an extended test drive. Perfect would be finding a dealer which would let you borrow it for like a week or a few days. But not too much of a chance I guess.
We are in agreement about the 2.2 not doing it. I think actually none of the smaller engines, specially not the diesels, would do. But as far as Brera, IMO, the 2.2 is not worth bothering. But you are looking at the 3.2, which adds the V6, meaning more charisma, better sound and more power. In addition to the AWD system which is basically the same system used by the expensive Quattros. So it beats the cheap AWD Audis. The negatives are as you already know and don't seem bothered. Very special looking cars for sure. Hard to think of anything which feels as special, exotic and rare at the price point. Nothing German will qualify for sure. Unless we go into supercar territory. For Italian, the next step is a Maserati 3200 GT or Coupe. Quite a bit more money and a lot more even for maintenance. You might see suggestions of 350Z, 370Z and the like as alternatives. But neither is any special, and compared to the Brera in that regard are pretty boring, common fare. Brera is also a GT. See it as a "luxury GT" type. Nothing like a Nissan Z.
As for comparison to the IS250, they are like 2 sides of the same coin. Not too many things in common apart from both being V6 cruisers. So I guess you will need to choose your priorities.
You may eventually regret it from a maintenance point of view. But might feel the rest makes up for it. Best would be do an extended test drive. Perfect would be finding a dealer which would let you borrow it for like a week or a few days. But not too much of a chance I guess.
Edited by Shifter1 on Monday 14th August 21:36
Yes, the Maserati would be lovely. But not doable. But I think you got the point there. The Brera really is more like the Maserati than a TT or 350Z are, in so many ways. Not only because it's Italian I think. It looks quite exotic and different. Then you sit in it and the interior follows that vibe. Then you turn the engine and the sound follows the vibe as well, for the V6. You park it and get out and look back, same vibe. I know it's not fast or agile. But neither is the Maserati. I see the Brera with about the same eyes I see the Maserati or an Aston. I'm not expecting to jump in a 3200GT, Granturismo or Aston and get Elise or M2 type of driving. Brera is more like a Maserati or Aston in a smaller dose in every way. Including price of entry and keeping. It's not a hot hatch or a sports car and I'm fine with that. I have one of those already. I want a daily cruiser with some fun and lots of style to make everyday drive feel a bit special.
I find the Brera special, classy and interesting. The Lexus is dependable, practical, luxurious and nice. Yeah, I guess I need to choose my priorities.
Edited by SPKR on Monday 14th August 23:54
Canon_Fodder said:
When I see either of these on the road the look tired and tatty,
The lexus with is popular with the 'bruv' demographic and so has usually been abused and uninsured and will stink of weed.
Most Breras (a lumpy design) look rusty
Around here, that reputation goes with Mercedes saloons, specially the ones which are not brand new. With BMW having the universal AH mobile reputation. Lexus has no stigma attached. Just not enough of them. To most it is just ultra sophisticated, reliable, unusual luxury. Because you are not driving a Mercedes, BMW or Audi like everybody else. Brera you see even less. The lexus with is popular with the 'bruv' demographic and so has usually been abused and uninsured and will stink of weed.
Most Breras (a lumpy design) look rusty
biggbn said:
Keep the Lexus.
This. The idea of something that's edgy and different is great, the reality usually different. I have a mate who had a Brera for a while, not long, parted with it quickly for all the reasons I'd expect to do likewise. I had an IS250 and was way more impressed by it than I expected to be. What it really taught me was to appreciate reliable things, but it was also all the things you've come to like about yours. I liked it enough to get an IS-F afterwards.
Shifter1 said:
RoVoFob said:
Shifter1 said:
RoVoFob said:
Shifter1 said:
So basically in many ways, the same as a Merc or Bimmer of same vintage.
By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.
By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.By the way, what question were you answering? Definitely none in the OP.
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