Mother Proof's view

I have no self-control with the Lexus IS350. At every green light I stomp on the gas and watch other cars as they shrink in my rearview mirror. When this occurs, my kids exclaim, “Oh no! We’re going FAST!” When my 2-year-old tells me to watch my speed, it is officially a problem. Lexus has created a monster, and she’s out to do no good.

Before I go any further, know that the Lexus IS350 is not a mom-mobile. The IS350 is a screamin’ meemie covered in sporty luxury. It is much too small to carry my whole family. When first entering the car, the first thing I think is, “Gee willikers, if I were any taller, I wouldn’t fit in this little number.” OK, so maybe the actual statement occurred after bumping my noggin and uttering profanities. The truth is it’s a very tight squeeze. My neighbor, a Lexus owner and subsequent “expert” has to come over and sit in the IS350. At 6-foot-4, his head rests against the ceiling, unless the driver’s seat is all the way back, and reclined pretty far.

The IS350 is one of the most giddy cars I’ve test-driven. I enjoy the sporty, clean, and efficient interior. The navigation system is simple to use and has so many practical features. Looking for restaurants near my route is great fun because they show up on the map as the flag of the country that represents the restaurant’s style of cuisine – a lesson in history, geography and gastronomics all in one. Speaking of food and drink, there is one cup holder in the center behind the gearshift, and another one stashed inside the console, adding to the simple look and feel of the interior.

As for the practicality of the interior, the child car seats are easy to install, and there’s room leftover for the armrest to fold down between them. The two Latch connectors in the back are easy to access with a leather flap covering them when not in use.

I know, it has already been said the IS350 is fast. It’s not a matter of if I’m going to get a speeding ticket; it’s a matter of when and how much it’ll cost me. I also have to say that the car’s braking is impeccable, the steering so nimble and responsive. When I use the paddle shifters on the steering wheel, I’m ready for Formula One! The seats hug me, and nothing’s wrong with those heated and ventilated seats either.

I had the opportunity to compare the IS350 to the slightly less powerful IS250 (equipped with AWD). In the IS250 I’m slightly less prone to pretending I’m Danica Patrick at every green light. Oh, it’s got plenty of speed, but the IS250 is not a rocket to Ticketsville like the 350. If I’m headed for Ticketsville, I’m going to have to pack a load of luggage. The trunk of the IS250 and 350 handle my luggage, large grocery trips, and the cargo net is a great accessory.

So while they’re not necessarily mom-mobiles, both the IS250 and 350 are a kick. Now that my kids can get in the car on their own, I don’t have to worry as much about chronic head-bump syndrome on the door jamb. I wonder again if I can control myself in this vehicle. Just because I can drive like Speed Racer doesn’t mean I should. Even though Lexus can give me all that speedy deliciousness with both cars, well, maybe they shouldn’t.

*For more information on the Lexus IS250 and IS350 and their safety features visit Cars.com.

LET’S TALK NUMBERS

LATCH Connectors: 2

Seating Capacity (includes driver): 5

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT

Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Fair

Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Fair

SENSE AND STYLE

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Not Really

Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove-On): Groove On