While the Lexus IS is the sportier of the two midsize cars Lexus makes,if you’re looking for a car that will eat up windy roads, there are better options out there. The BMW 3-Series gives buyers sharp styling, good interior comfort and a lot of fun, but all of this comes at a hefty price. If the 335i’s $2,500 premium over a comparable IS 350 isn’t enough to scare you off, wait until you see that some of the Lexus’s standard features-- like leather upholstery -- cost extra in the BMW.

If the BMW’s steep price leaves you cold, then maybe the Infiniti G37 will spark your interest. Like the BMW it’s tuned to drive hard and fast on twisty roads, but its base price will save you more than $3,500 dollars compared to the Lexus IS 350. If you’re looking for a sedan that focuses on comfort though, the G37 may disappoint. It’s a bit coarser than the Lexus thanks to its performance tuning.

Want something more plush and relaxed without becoming as soft as a marshmallow? Check out the Cadillac CTS. Like the IS, the entry-level Cadillac balances sport and luxury with an emphasis on luxury. This means that the Caddy will scoot you around town without being as harsh as the BMW or Infiniti. But, the base CTS is priced at nearly $3,000 more than the base Lexus IS. On the other hand, the base CTS has a major power advantage over the Lexus IS 250 with its 3.0-liter 270 horsepower engine.