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.
| 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 |
