1. No one knows for sure when the 3IS will be out. If you are waiting for MY2 (model year) of the 3IS then you are thinking way ahead of yourself. Car designs do not always get better. Consider the Camry and Accord. However, you have put some thought into it by knowing to wait for MY2.
2. Chick car? If you prefer boxy, get a Volvo or a pickup truck. Porsche and Ferrari have some sweet designs too, but a 400HP engine is not that practical for most drivers and would send the price of the car out of many folks' reach. Furthermore, I don't consider "chick car" to be a "rumour." You either feel that way or you don't. I wanted a car that was beautiful inside and out, and it had all the gadgets, you are correct about that. Lexus succeeds on all points.
3. People with rattles complain about rattles. People without rattles discuss other stuff. I've had my '08 IS for 6 months without a rattle. The loaner IS250 and ES350 had no rattles. My bro's ES330 has no rattles.
4. Cramped interior. Get the GS if you are trying to move your family. Friends can walk if they don't like it. I sit in the driver's seat--no problems.
5. No regrets. If my car is totalled I am ordering another just like it. I already looked at BMW, Mercedes, Acura, Toyota, Infiniti, Saturn. Maybe I'd look at Audi, though. I didn't see them before buying.