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Tough choice. Personally I like the TSX the best of the two. I would rate both equal in just about everyway, so it would really come down to personal preference. The AWD on the IS is an advantage if you are in an area that gets a lot of snow, but the TSX is also competent, especially if you run snow tires.
I also think the TSX has a higher level of standard equipment, that would require checking option boxes on the Lexus to get. Overall I think the TSX represents a better dollar value than the IS. This all really comes down to personal preference.
The 250 is pretty under-powered though. It will ride nicer and be more comfortable than the Acura, as well as hold its value better, but the Acura will be more fun and have more toys.
Practicality? Between those two, the more practical would be the one that has a folding rear seat. Otherwise it's pretty much a wash, although the TSX's interior dimensions should be slightly better. The IS250's AWD is probably not hugely beneficial unless you live in a climate where FWD can't cut it.
2010 Acura TSX 4 cylinder
vs.
2010 Lexus Is 250 AWD.
Which one is better in terms of reliability, safety and practicality?
Both are equally reliable and safe. The TSX has a folding rear seat. Not sure about the IS. However, it'll feel underpowered, especially with the AWD. The Acura's pretty fun to drive, even more so if you get the V6. I also think it looks better than the Lexus. I sat in an IS once and found that it had poor visibility compared to the TSX. And while the IS has AWD, even if you live in the snowy north, it should be fine since it has Michelin tires.
Looked at both of these last year (and Infiniti G37). Here are my 2 cents based on comparing:
TSX: more interior space, cheaper options and tech gadgets, no AWD
IS: tiny interior (especially back seat), more expensive options, smoother ride, more luxurious feel and finishes
Both have adequate power but nothing great for a sports sedan compared to BMW, Audi, Infiniti competition. We ended up going with the Infiniti - thought it was the most overall bang for our buck.
The biggest knock on the TSX for me is that it is FWD. I just prefer RWD or AWD. I think the current TSX is a handsome, edgy looking car without the front end weirdness of the TL. But I have also liked the IS style from the beginning.
I think unless I needed AWD, I'd look at the RWD IS and see if I could swing the IS350 - and compare to the TSX V6.
The 250 is pretty under-powered though. It will ride nicer and be more comfortable than the Acura, as well as hold its value better, but the Acura will be more fun and have more toys.
x2.
The IS250 is [off the top of my head] 200hp, which is underpowered for the RWD model ..... not to mention the AWD one.
Don't let the RWD fans sway you .... unless you're a real driving fan ... under every day conditions, you will not be able to tell the difference between AWD, FWD or RWD.
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