What about the new Mercedes-Benz C class? They look like baby S classes, just like the Lexus IS sorta looks like a baby GS. The C240 is available with a 6spd manual here in the US too... can't wait to get home to go test drive one with my dad Actually, have you considered the IS300 too? It's damn cheap (about $33.5k nicely loaded) and it's a Lexus. Although some (like myself) don't think it's up to par with the rest of the Lexus family, I admit it is a nice car. My only complaints are the lack of an armrest/console in the middle and the lack of a 6spd tranny =D The chronograph dials look TIGHT though =)
Also, on Wangel's comment about BMW's service being better- I have to disagree. I have a friend with a '99 M3, and he says that the dealer treats him like sh*t. It may be the fact that he's 20 and drives a $40k car, but they (namely Assael BMW in S. Ca) don't give him the respect he deserves. I mean he got better service at the Honda dealer back when he had his Accord. I have another friend who was looking to get a new BMW, but they seemed to think that he was just a little punk kid just wanting to test drive a car, and that he wasn't really looking to buy a car. Keep in mind that this "punk kid" is a 30 year old graduate from Cal Tech. Turns out he went to the Audi dealer and picked himself up a nice little S4 =D While we're on the topic of service, I'd like to say that Lexus has excellent customer service. My friend (the one now with an M3) used to drive his parent's LS400, and when he would take it in to Longo Lexus (El Monte, CA) they would treat him really well. They have a huge underground service department complete with a lounge, refreshments, and even a putting green and a golfing net =D Talk about good facilities Anyways feel free to rant/rave/flame my message below =D