A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.1
Comfort & Interior
4.5
Running Costs
4
Practicality
3.9
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a premium executive saloon that combines luxury with reliability? The Lexus IS delivers exactly that with its distinctive Japanese approach to refinement. This compact executive car sits perfectly between mainstream family saloons and larger luxury models, offering a compelling alternative to European rivals. The IS stands out with its exceptional build quality, hybrid efficiency, and that unmistakable Lexus attention to detail that few competitors can match.
What makes the IS particularly appealing is its unique position in the executive car market. While competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class focus on sporty dynamics, the Lexus prioritises comfort and dependability. The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance, making it ideal for business users and long distance commuters. You’ll find the cabin exceptionally well built with premium materials throughout and technology that actually works intuitively.
The IS excels where it matters most for daily driving. The ride quality is superbly comfortable, the interior feels genuinely luxurious, and running costs remain reasonable for the class. Whether you’re considering it as a company car or looking for reliable executive transport, the Lexus IS offers a refreshing alternative to the usual German choices with proven long term dependability.
What's the Lexus IS Like to Drive?
The Lexus IS offers a choice of well engineered powertrains designed for smooth, refined performance. The headline act is the IS 300h hybrid, which combines a 2.5 litre petrol engine with an electric motor for around 220 horsepower. This setup delivers brisk acceleration with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.3 seconds, while returning impressive fuel economy. The hybrid system works seamlessly, switching between electric and petrol power without any jarring transitions. For those preferring traditional power, the IS 300 uses a 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 245 horsepower.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.5L Hybrid / 2.0L Turbo Petrol
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Power Output
220 - 245 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.3 - 7.0 seconds
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MPG Combined
50 - 35 mpg
- Boot Space
- 480 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Lexus IS: Comfort & Features
Step inside the IS and you’re greeted by one of the finest interiors in its class. The dashboard design is modern and sophisticated, with high quality materials used throughout. Soft touch plastics dominate the upper surfaces, while the seats feature premium leather upholstery that feels genuinely luxurious. The fit and finish is exemplary, with tight panel gaps and solid feeling controls that operate with satisfying precision. The infotainment system includes smartphone integration, though the interface can take some getting used to.
The IS remains a compelling choice – a beautifully balanced blend of driver engagement and Lexus refinement. It’s not just about luxury; it’s about a surprisingly spirited experience.
Is the Lexus IS Expensive to Run?
As a premium hybrid saloon, the Lexus IS offers competitive running costs for its class. The standout performer is the IS 300h hybrid, which can achieve real world fuel economy of around 45 to 50 mpg in mixed driving conditions. This translates to lower fuel bills compared to many rival executive cars. Insurance groups are reasonable for a premium saloon, typically falling in the mid teens for most variants. The initial purchase price positions the IS competitively against German rivals, often offering better value for money.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Lexus IS
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BMW 3 Series
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Mercedes C-Class
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £32,000 | £35,000 | £34,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.5L Hybrid 220hp | 2.0L Turbo 184hp | 2.0L Turbo 204hp |
| Power | 220 bhp | 184 bhp | 204 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 seconds | 7.1 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 50 mpg | 42 mpg | 44 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 480 litres | 480 litres | 455 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Hybrid efficiency, Excellent reliability, Premium interior | Sporty handling, Advanced tech, Strong residuals | Luxurious cabin, Smooth ride, Comprehensive safety |
Lexus IS Practicality & Boot Space
For an executive saloon, the Lexus IS offers good practical credentials. The 480 litre boot is a decent size for the class, easily accommodating several large suitcases or a substantial weekly shop. The boot opening is wide and the loading lip is reasonably low, making it easy to load heavy items. Inside the cabin, you’ll find adequate storage spaces for everyday items, including door pockets, a centre console compartment, and cup holders strategically placed throughout.
Absolutely love my IS 300h. The build quality is superb and the hybrid system is so smooth you barely notice it switching between power sources. Fuel economy is brilliant and it feels like a car that will last forever. The only slight niggle is the infotainment system takes some learning.
The Lexus IS successfully carves out its own niche in the competitive executive saloon market. It combines the efficiency of hybrid power with the refinement and quality that Lexus is renowned for. The interior quality rivals cars costing significantly more, while the driving experience strikes an excellent balance between comfort and engagement. Its reliability reputation and competitive running costs make it a smart long term choice.