2001 Lexus IS200 Sport review from UK and Ireland

Nothing so far, in the first 7 months of ownership.

This is an extremely well-built, comfortable car.

I previously had a BMW 523 SE; the new company car tax rules meant that when I came to replace it, it was going to cost more in tax that I was prepared to pay. I spent about 8 months looking at alternatives, and test drove the BMW 320i, the Saab 9-3, the Audi A3 and A4 (both 1.8T), and the Mercedes C class (2.3 litre CDi) and C class coupe (2 litre kompressor).

I eventually chose the IS 200 Sport, and am entirely happy with my decision. It turns heads wherever it goes, as it is still a rather unusual sight on UK roads (though rapidly becoming more popular).

The build quality is excellent; the instrument cluster comes in for some stick, but all I can say is that I rapidly got used to its unusual design, and every passenger I have ever had in the car has commented favourably on it.

A somewhat contentious issue with car is whether or not it is underpowered in 2 litre guise. I have found that it has all the power I need (though I do notice the difference from a BMW 2.5 litre engine!) and the road handling is noticeably better than the beamer. My one and only gripe would be that, with a six speed box, the frequent gear changes on winding roads can be tiresome, but this is the price you pay for the better acceleration and overall performance you get with a six-speed box.

I was really keen to ensure build quality was good, as we have to keep our company cars for 4 years. From what I have seen so far, it is on a par with the BMW and better than the Mercedes E class I previously had.