Lexus SportCross 2004

In late September of 2003, I placed an order for a 2004 Lexus SportCross. The SportCross is the wagon version of Lexus' IS300 model line. Although the SportCross is classified as a station wagon, it is far from looking or playing the part. I prefer to call my SportCross a 5 door hatch sports sedan due its stylish sloping back side. This is my first time owning a Lexus. I will have to say that I am very impressed with this Toyota luxury brand. The standard equipments included make Lexus very competitive against BMWs and Audis. I was also checking out the BMW wagons--Yes, I chose the sport wagon class this time around as my mode of transportation for utility without sacrificing the joy of driving. BMW wagons are certainly fun automobiles to drive with fine interiors; however, after adding all the extra options to match the Lexus standard equipments, BMW ended up almost $7,000 more than the Lexus. As an ex-owner of two BMW 3-series' myself, I will say this: BMWs are definitely ultimate driving machines that cost a bundle to maintain especially after 3 years. The choice became clear. I left the BMW circle and joined the proud and satisfied owners of Lexus. Some of the standard equipments that came with the SportCross include High-Intensity Discharge Headlamps, Integrated Foglamps, 17" Alloy Wheels with performance grade tires, Power Moonroof, and Auto Dimming Mirrors. The performance specifications of the vehicle are as follows:

• Engine: 3 Liters 6 Cylinder In-Line
• Horsepower: 215 hp
• Max Horsepower: 5800 rpm
• Torque: 218 ft-lbs.
• Max Torque: 3800 rpm
• Drive Type: RWD
• Turning Circle: 34.1 ft.
• 0 to 60mph: 7.4 seconds
• Top track speed: 143.7 mph

The 6 disc in-dash CD changer with FM/AM and cassette with 9 speakers (including a sub-woofer) powered by 240 watts sounds really clean but not enough bass for me. I added a JL Audio 250/1 mono amp powering two 10" W0 woofers in an enclosed box to give the factory deck a boost in bass.

July 26, 2004 update: JL 12" W3V2 Upgrade (Read Here)

Then I added a XM Roady unit to provide the extra selection of music without having to carry a huge folder of CDs.

This vehicle performs and handles very well both on highways and in the twisties. It has plenty of pick-up. It will throw you back and pin you against your seat when you punch it from a dead stop. The acceleration is only tenths of a second slower than its sedan counter part, but the better weight distribution of the SportCross (53% front and 47% rear) makes it handle slightly better than the sedans. The car is very quiet. At stop, you would sometimes forget that the engine is running. The road noise is minimal at highway speeds. It is not only a joy but also a rush to drive this car. I often forget that I am actually driving a station wagon.
The SportCross is a rare gem in the Lexus line-up. Not many people even know the existence of this particular model type. I have received many compliments from onlookers. I personally have yet to see another one on the road with my own eyes after driving it for almost 8 months. A couple of my friends have spotted one or two on the road or in a parking lot.
With its aggressive styling, the reliability and quality of Toyota, and plush interiors, the Lexus SportCross is absolutely my favorite car I have ever had the pleasure of owning to date.

Photo Gallery One taken on 11/3/2003

Photo Gallery Two taken on 08/09/2004

XM Install Photo Gallery

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