2014 Lexus IS
2014 Lexus IS
2014 Lexus IS 350

2015 Lexus IS 350

Pros: Athletic handling; numerous options and option packages; Cabin trim astutely blends luxury and sport

Cons: Middling acceleration in IS 250 models; limited interior room; fuel economy not outstanding

CG Says: After their redesign for 2014, the Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 get an available heated steering wheel, minor trim updates, and Siri Eyes Free functionality for iPhone users. Also new is Lexus Enform Remote, a subscription-based smartphone app that enables users to remotely monitor their vehicle, lock/unlock the doors, and start/stop the engine and climate control system. The IS’s nimble handling is a highlight, but its aging V6 engines (a 204-horsepower 2.5-liter for the IS 250, a 306-hp 3.5-liter for the IS 350) mean it doesn’t trounce any of its competitors in terms of performance or fuel economy. If you’re in the market for an athletic compact sedan with a convincingly luxurious feel, check out the IS that suits you best, but be sure to scope the Cadillac ATS, BMW 3-Series Sedan, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class as well.

The Facts
Class Premium Compact Car
Body Style(s) 4-door sedan
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Lexus
Nation of Manufacture Japan
Base Prices IS 250: $36,550
AWD IS 250: $39,085
IS 350: $40,065
AWD IS 350: $42,300

Base Engine
2.5-liter V6
Horsepower
204
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
20-21
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
27-30

Optional Engine
3.5-liter V6
Horsepower
306
Std. Transmission
8-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
(AWD model) 6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
19
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
26-28

2014 Lexus IS 250
2015 Lexus IS 250
2014 Lexus IS 250
2015 Lexus IS 250 F Sport
2014 Lexus IS 350
2015 Lexus IS 350 F Sport
Share this: