Lexus IS
Lexus IS technical data
Select Lexus IS generation for full details - reviews, specifications, fuel consumption, pricing, quality and safety features, options, photos and more
The Lexus IS is a compact luxury sports sedan that debuted in 1999 and has evolved through multiple generations. Designed to compete with German rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the IS focuses on a balance of performance, luxury, and reliability.
The second generation, introduced in 2005, brought significant advancements, including all-wheel drive version and a choice of engines ranging from a 2.5-liter V6 to a 5.0-liter V8 in the high-performance IS F model. This generation featured sharper styling, improved handling, and luxurious interiors, marking Lexus' attempt to appeal to driving enthusiasts.
The third generation, launched in 2013, introduced a bold spindle grille design and a more aggressive stance. It offered various powertrains, including turbocharged four-cylinder engines, naturally aspirated V6s, and a hybrid option in the IS 300h. This generation focused on enhancing driving dynamics with better suspension and steering systems, while the interior included upgraded infotainment systems and high-quality materials.
The fourth and current generation, released in 2020, further refined the design with sharper lines and improved aerodynamics. It retains the rear-wheel-drive platform and offers powerful V6 engines, including the 311-horsepower IS 350 and the performance-oriented IS 500 with a 5.0-liter V8. Advanced safety features and a more intuitive infotainment system make this generation highly competitive in the segment.
In user reviews, the Lexus IS is praised for its build quality, refined interiors, and reliability. Many users highlight its smooth ride and precise handling, especially in sportier trims. Criticism includes limited rear-seat space and an infotainment system interface that some find less intuitive compared to competitors.
Lexus IS reviews
Total 5 Lexus IS owner reviews
Pros: The dynamics is ok, but no more.
Consumption in city economical driving mode is around 7 litres per 100 km in summer, and around 8 litres in winter, around 6.5 litres on the motorway.
The suspension is stiff, therefore the car steers very good. The interior is bit narrow, but well made. Quality of the materials is excellent, feels like a premium class car. The only bad thing is that the plastic is too fragile - it is easy to scratch.
Cons: Do not feel any gain from electric engine, apparently the heavy hybrid system is to blame.
Pros: The dynamics are not like a race car, but overall the car is quite peppy. Driving comfort is top-notch - it feels like driving a ship. The suspension copes well with small bumps and cracks and even more or less large potholes, but the ground clearance is low. Fuel consumption is around 13 litres in the city, a few litres more in winter. On the motorway, it's usually around 7 litres. There's plenty of room in front. The rear is narrow for tall passengers of above-average height.
Cons: Weak lights
Pros: Comfortable and high quality interior, good looks even despite its age, and excellent driving characteristics. The car is very stable on the move - it stays firmly on the road, even at high speeds, and responds instantly to steering inputs. The engine and gearbox are perfectly matched. Consumption is around 18 litres in the city with active driving, but if you drive quietly you can get away with 15 litres.
Pros: The repair of rolling stock shall not be required only disadvantage - low clearance. The city, country - so so... The interior and comfort good.
Cons: After 10 years of operation need to change ignition bobbins all cylinders - 6 pcs.
| Purchase year: | 2007 age of car 7 years) | Owned for | 230`000 kilometers (9 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 10.0 litres per 100km (20% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Cabin extras, rear-wheel drive. The capacity is ok. Do not corrode. Durable.
Cons: Consumption, thin metal.
| Purchase year: | 2015 age of car 16 years) | Owned for | 20`000 kilometers (1 year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 14.0 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
| Purchase year: | 2013 age of car 5 years) | Owned for | 47`000 kilometers (4 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 9.5 litres per 100km (40% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Just a good car for level roads.