Haven't got the foggiest idea what engines or gearbox options will be in the new Lexus, what are you considering? I admire Lexus, but they have been dogged from the very beginning by not offering a decent 3+ litre Diesel, pity because Toyota make some very powerful and durable Diesels which would have been ideal in Lexus of varying body styles.

I presume the new IS will have some form of Hybrid, hopefully a refined performance version like GS, i'd certainly check one out thoroughly if this was my market, likely to be more durable just as economical overall and less troublesome than the rather fragile modern Diesel with all its emissions carp.

MB?, well you must be pleased with your current model to consider another, so long as your dealer is up to the task you could do worse than rinse and repeat.

Note if you go MB again you're considering another 4 pot C class, or a 6 pot E class.

What about the bigger engine in the smaller car combo, that would be my choice, indeed if you go for the E class budget but in C body you could have a serious engine, much pleasure that would bring.

Obvious other contender would be a 5 series BMW in this market.

The 2013 Lexus IS will have a hybrid version (which is the model I would consider, rather than the less economical petrol) and under "F Sport" guise should be a competent car, backed up by dealers with a very good rating. The negative may well be a smaller boot to accomodate the batteries but will wait and see as full details yet to be released.

I agree with your view on Toyota having driven their cars in my younger days and still yearn after that realiability and simplicity which many manufacturers struggle to deliver.

Very good point on the small car/big engine option - may take a look at a 6 pot c class and see how that drives first before making the call

Thanks - all good food for thought

Collos25 - very fair point, but curiosity gets the better of me and "grass always greener" mentality kicks in. Also, it's nice to change marques and try a different approach. I think I will pitch a Lexus IS hybrid against a C350cdi and see which feels better!

A strange race the British, the addition of Audi by Avant concludes the list for alternative ideas for the OP.

In other countries extremely competent cars would be on the considered list, Hyundai's Genesis flagship models for example, superb cars that would compare favouribly with the few marque's mentioned here.

Wouldn't get a look in here because image by badge count for more than quality or capability, hence the continued sales of image high unreliable luxury cars made here too.

Mazda with their Xedos range were fine cars not so long ago, Toyota Camry's would stand up to any scrutiny except image.

Are we so afraid to buy what the Jones' wouldn't consider, i wonder why this is?