Lexus IS Problems

Toyota has announced the voluntary recall of 1.7m vehicles worldwide, including some of its luxury Lexus models, over a fuel leak.  This brings to approximately 12m the total number of recalls since 2009 when acceleration problems were blamed for fatal crashes overseas.The latest recall affects only 4844 Australian owners of Lexus IS250 vehicles built between August 2007 and February 2009.  Australian Toyota/Lexus spokesperson Laura Hill said there have been no reports of accidents or injuries here or overseas due to the fuel leak.She said only one of the 117 worldwide reports of owners smelling leaking petrol was in Australia.  Lexus will notify owners by mail to make an appointment with their dealer for the free repair."It takes between two and three hours," Hill said.  "It's a small repair; tightening the fuel pressure sensor to the fuel delivery pipe, or replacing a gasket if there is a leak."Vehicles affected overseas are powered by an Avensis engine which is not included in Toyota or Lexus vehicles available in Australia, she said.

There's little doubt of which car Toyota was aiming at when it designed the IS200; its looks, size and proportions all mirror the BMW 3-Series.

Choosing the right car can open the door to the executive floor, or confirm your corner office and that overdue promotion to the big league. Just as the right suit, tie, shoes or watch send a message to management, so does the right car.Working on the basis that you should always dress for the job you want, not the one you have, there are some impressive buys around in the prestige class. And, better than anything, a smart second-hand purchase is a great way to reward yourself.You still need to think about the obvious stuff -- maintenance and repair costs, insurance, fuel economy and resale value -- but driving a tasty import doesn't have to mean a second mortgage. Buying near-new, with just a couple of years on the clock, can open the doors to some impressive cars.Here are three that tick the boxes for the Carsguide undercover crew:(Search for hundreds more choices)HOT TIPSIf out of warranty use a brand specialist mechanic. If you can find a manual you're sure to save even more. Prestige cars cost to maintain so budget for this.2009 BMW 323iEngine: 2.5-litre 6-cyl petrolTransmission: 6-speed autoThirst: 8.8L/100CARSGUIDE SAYSA BMW badge is enough for many people and it needn't break the bank. The upmarket E90-model 3 Series sedan has balanced and subtly arresting style. The 323i (or the E92 325i if you spend $50K) gets a six-cylinder engine and earns more street cred than the four-cylinder 318i and 320i. It's not cheap to own or run, but the 323i still has lots going for it. It has room for four adults, is an exhilarating drive with solid handling, and even the fuel use isn't too bad. A thorough service history is mandatory and new owners are expected to continue this trend.2009 Lexus IS250 PrestigeEngine: 2.5-litre 6-cyl petrolTransmission: 6-speed automaticThirst: 9.7L/100CARSGUIDE SAYSAn underestimated car that's perfect for first-time executive buyers. This particular example is the desirable 2009 upgrade model and gets extra kit such as the heated and cooled front seats and satnav. The IS is similar in size to a 3 Series but more focused on comfort and equipment than performance or rip-roaring cornering. Lexus builds beautiful cars and owners report very good customer service.2009 Mercedes-Benz C280 AvantgardeEngine: 3.0-litre 6-cyl petrolTransmission: 7-speed automaticThirst: 9.4L/100CARSGUIDE SAYSThis C-Class variant is a cut above the 1.8-litre petrol and 2.1-litre diesel models that sold best in 2008-10. Its 3.0 V6 gives punchy performance, at the cost of a greater thirst, as well as a distinctive exhaust note. There is commendable safety and reasonable equipment, although it's not a match for the Lexus.