Verdict
A
← Lexus IS · 2014-present · XE30
Lexus IS (Gen 3)
IS 500 is the V8 sedan nobody saw coming. The rest are forgettable.
BHP
472 bhp
0–60
4.4 s
Top speed
149 mph
MPG
20.0 mpg
New
$42,000-$67,000
Strengths
- IS 500 sounds incredible
- Bulletproof Lexus reliability
- Resale is steel
Weaknesses
- IS 500 only available in F SPORT spec (no track pack)
- Infotainment was outdated until the 2024 refresh
- 2.0 turbo feels strained
Notable tech
- IS 500 F SPORT Performance gets the 2UR-GSE 5.0 V8 from the old IS-F / RC F (2022-present)
- 8-speed automatic on V6 / V8
- Adaptive Variable Suspension on F SPORT
- Mark Levinson audio standard on Premium
Common issues
- 2GR-FSE V6 water pump leaks (long-term)
- Touchpad infotainment universally hated (touchscreen added 2021)
- 8AR-FTS turbo carbon buildup
Used-market budget
$38,000
Typical price point for a well-maintained example with full service history. Cars priced significantly below this often require remedial work.