Car change time!

I've been toying with the idea of replacing the Mercedes for a while, helped* along by work pointing out that its not ideal for client visits and my wife who isn't overly keen on the lacquer peel. My usual reply that either party was welcome to buy me a new car has failed to yield results so I've finally taken matters into my own hands.

I narrowed the list down to an executive saloon or estate newer than 2005 and went out visiting. There have been some good cars, some average cars and quite a bit of sewage but I finally found something just right for me on Saturday. I left a cash deposit and I'm going back tomorrow to collect. I've switched the insurance over from midday and will tax it when I'm there then drive back. It was nearby, in a town about 30 miles away so hardly a collection thread epic, but should do me a good few years.

A review described these as being 'competent, but a bit soulless' - so a lot like me then!

I have decided to treat myself to a 'nice' car. I've never owned a car with more than 4 cylinders, and wanted something thats a bit special to look at and to drive. I wanted something that was reliable too. So behold

A 2010 Lexus IS250 SE-L. I test drove about half a dozen, and a GS300 for good measure but this one was the 'right' one. Bought from an old guy fairly locally, its got FSH, decent alloys, loads of toys (all working) and is lovely to drive. Its a 2.5L NASP v6 with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. I know its cliched but it feels incredibly well built and understressed. The ergonomics are spot on, everything is exactly where I'd expect it to be. I'm over the moon with it.

The only things on the 'to do' list are to get a set of 4 normal wheel nuts to replace the locking ones because they're just a liability at this point, and to get 4 new tyres. The current ones are all OK age and tread wise, but are a mismatched set of 'premium economy' brands - I'd like to make it perfect by fitting a new set of 4 matching midranges.