Lexus IS
Overall Score - 8.8 (Very Good)
The IS sedan is sporty enough to be called the Japanese version of the 3-Series, with Lexus-applied luxury. But while the IS 250 is just a respectable sport sedan, the IS 350 is a hot rod.
With a beefy build almost identical to the Lexus GS, auto reviewers agree that the 2007 Lexus IS has become a very respectable choice for a midsize luxury sport sedan. Universally compared to the bellwether BMW 3-Series, the IS 250 stacks up well for its tight handling and luxuriously appointed interior. But the competitively priced IS 250 is considered underpowered by many. In stark contrast, the IS 350 is a "hot rod," as Kelley Blue Book puts it. In head-to-head comparison, Edmunds clocked the IS 350 at 5.6 seconds for 0-60 mph acceleration, "dusting" the BMW 330i's 6.7 seconds. But auto experts remind buyers that Lexus is about luxury above all else. Ward's AutoWorld deems the IS "refinement beyond comparison," with technological amenities and fully-loaded package options. The IS holds as one of Edmunds' top choices for a midsize luxury sport sedan. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman calls the new IS an "identity statement," the statement being that "we're comfortable in our own skin."
The 2007 Lexus IS 250 and the 2007 Lexus IS 350 are both IntelliChoice "Best in Class" winners for overall value. IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Lexus IS 250 a "better than average" value rating, and gives the IS 350 an "excellent" overall value rating, based on total cost of ownership compared to others in its class.
IS Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
The majority agree the 2007 Lexus IS offers solid driving performance for its class, and is solid competition for its top German and Japanese rivals. During a comparison test drive between the Acura TL and Infiniti G35, Road and Track determined "the Lexus IS 350 is the king of the Japanese sports-sedan hill." continue
IS Exterior - 7.7 (Good)
Redesigned for the 2006 model year, the Lexus IS styling has moved away from its subdued appearance and into one that critics rave is simultaneously edgy and graceful. With a wider stance, sharper edges and more authority, the new design language exudes both sport and luxury. continue
IS Interior - 7.4 (Good)
With a refined interior, rich in electronics and subtle styling cues, the Lexus IS exudes quality craftsmanship. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman finds the cabin "classy" and "sleek," with an overall feel that is "more reminiscent of an easy chair than an airplane cockpit." continue
IS Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
Redesigned for the 2006 model year, the Lexus IS styling has moved away from its subdued appearance and into one that critics rave is simultaneously edgy and graceful. With a wider stance, sharper edges and more authority, the new design language exudes both sport and luxury. continue
IS Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2007 Lexus IS reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Lexus IS has a basic warranty that covers 48 months or 50,000 miles. continue
