Battle Of The Imports

By Brian Joseph

Car enthusiast, cousin, & your direct source to the newest and hottest updates on the automotive industry. 

Imports or domestic cars?  I personally like both markets; each market has its own style to contribute to the automobile industry. For 2013 manufactures are bringing out new models to compete with the competition.  Two particular models that have caught my eye are the new Infiniti Q50 (which many of you know as the G35 or G37) and the Lexus IS. I love both of these cars, but each car has its own characteristics to set them apart from each other.

As we look at design the IS350 very aggressive and bold. Many people do not like the spindle grill that Lexus is incorporating on many of their models. The front LED strip for the IS350 is integrated into the bumper, which many enthusiasts do not like. Power remains the same but there is a possibility of a hybrid system which is only available in Europe at the moment but there is an ISF coming out probably next year. One outstanding feature that the IS will get for 2014 is the LFA style gauge cluster which moves. I personally think that is pretty sweet.  

Lexus IS350

As for the Infiniti Q50, the front fascia is aggressive yet clean. There will be an option of a hybrid system and a sport version but no IPL version in the works yet. Power will remain the same and there is no option for a 6 speed gear box at the moment.  Infiniti for the first time has a touch screen display where you can select apps and other features with just a point of a finger.

Infiniti Q50

Interior Q50

Both cars are great, and it really comes down to what the consumer really likes. I personally would get the Q50 right now, but the IS will eventually grow on me.