I've got to step up and comment on this one. I own two Infiniti's and have owned 4 in total. I have owned Lexus. One of my project managers has an IS250. It is not up to the standard of either Infiniti or BMW. It creeks worse than my G35 coupe did by a long shot. I am a bit critical of Lexus though because they build boring cars. No serious enthusiast drives a Lexus.
With regard to your comment on the 335i, I could not disagree more. My son bought the 335i over the G37 for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the quality of the fit and finish of the interior. The styling may not be to your taste but you cannot seriously question the quality. My G35 seats were a POS and had to be fixed twice. They rocked and creaked, the leather cracked. Sorry but I call you on this one. As for a drivers car, the 335i beats the G37. Not by a mile, but it is a better balanced car. The IS350 does not come close to either in my opinion.
Now if I was going to give dad some advice, it would be an A4. The new styling is stricking and their quattro system cannot be matched. The 2 litre is adequately powered and get freaky gas mileage. They are reasonably priced. The IS250 is the best price point, but for a reason. Don't cause mom to have to drive one. That would make you a bad son
