Overview
Less intense than its German counterparts, the 2025 Lexus IS takes a somewhat different route among small sport sedans. The V-8–powered IS500 F Sport Performance variant, for example, will be blasted by a BMW M3 or a Mercedes-AMG C63 at a stoplight drag-racing test despite its 472-hp output. The Lexus is more comfortable to live with on a daily basis than those sports sedans, though, so customers who desire better balance between comfort and handling may find it meets the criteria. The standard IS300’s turbo-four generates just 241 horsepower, and we believe most drivers will find it a touch too poky. The mid-range IS350’s V-6 generates 311 horsepower and is more smooth than the turbo four; both of those versions may be ordered with optional all-wheel drive. The IS's inside is less capacious interior than the competition, but beautiful materials and clever technology throughout the design means that Lexus’s smallest sedan successfully emulates the brand's bigger premium automobiles.
What's New for 2025?
To honor the IS’s 25th year, Lexus is releasing a limited-edition Special Appearance package for the top-spec IS500 F Sport Performance Premium. The unique model will be restricted to only 180 units, and all come painted Flare Yellow and riding cool-looking 19-inch BBS wheels. Elsewhere in the range, the IS300 F Sport and IS350 F Sport acquire some new standard features: power-folding side mirrors that auto dim at night, a power-adjustable steering column, memory settings for the driver, and dark chrome exterior window trim. The F Sport Design levels add a standard heated steering wheel.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Clients can access nine different trim options for the 2025 Lexus IS with pricing starting at $41,335 and reaching $64,820 for the most expensive version.
The V-8 IS500 stands out to us because of its great power yet the majority should choose the six-cylinder IS350 and its superior driving satisfaction to the standard IS300. The IS350 features all-wheel-drive system options similar to those of its base model which uses rear-wheel drive as standard. Improvements would begin with a conversion from F Sport Design to F Sport model followed by the addition of F Sport Handling Package for Adaptive Variable Suspension and Torsen limited-slip rear differential.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 IS features three engine options: a 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the IS300, a 311-hp V-6 in the IS350, and a 472-hp V-8 in the IS500. The IS300 and IS350 provide an all-wheel-drive option while the exclusive IS500 model gets rear-wheel drive as its standard. Steer clear of the base four-cylinder IS300 model because its power output does not achieve a proper match with the car's versatile chassis along with its elegant refined characteristics. The V-6 engine level elevates the IS model to its absolute best state.
0–60-MPH Times
During our evaluation of a rear-wheel-drive IS350 F Sport we observed a 5.6 second 60-mph acceleration timing which is standard for this high-performance segment. Our test track witnessed the V-8-powered IS500 variant become the definitive IS model by recording a 4.3-second 60-mph speed. The V-8 IS500 holds throne as number one super-sedan over vehicles including Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing, BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance yet it trails behind those competitors in handling excitement yet stands alone in its class because of its naturally aspirated V-8 engine.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The rear-wheel drive IS300 reaches the highest fuel economy levels with official EPA ratings of 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Using all-wheel drive reduces fuel economy numbers to 19 mpg during urban driving and 26 mpg when traveling on the highway. The IS350 V-6 delivers an EPA-rated combined 20/28 mpg with its rear-wheel-drive system but its all-wheel-drive version matches the IS300 at 19/26 mpg. The thirstiest in the lineup is the V-8 IS500 ISA which gets 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway fuel efficiency. Driving an all-wheel-drive IS350 on our highway mileage test produced 30 mpg despite its EPA rating being 26 mpg. Additional data about the IS's fuel efficiency exists on the EPA website.
Read Also: 2025 Prius PHEV for Toyota
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The tiny, rear-wheel-drive IS is not quite as capacious as the similarly priced front-wheel-drive ES sedan, so don't expect tall adults to sit comfortably in the back. Nor is there much in the way of storage cubbies up front—your mobile phone is either riding in the cupholder or in the little bin beneath the center armrest (where the power outlets are situated). Everything you see and touch, though, is suitable of a Lexus. Power front seats, dual-zone automatic temperature control, and push-button start are all standard equipment, while a power sunroof is optional. The imitation leather feels as soft as the genuine stuff.
Infotainment and Connectivity
An 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard; a bigger 10.3-inch display is available and comes packaged with in-dash navigation. Both employ a console-mounted touchpad, a slightly odd design, but we're delighted to see volume and tuning knobs still intact. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa are compatible with any system. As in the previous-generation IS, a Mark Levinson premium sound system is offered as an option, although this time it features 17 speakers and 1800 watts of power.
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