Lexus is250 The Lexus IS 250 Prestige, F Sport and Sports Luxury models feature a 153kW direct injection 2.5 litre V6 engine and an outstanding level of standard safety
The IS 250 AWD — Lexus’s least expensive entry in the sporty/luxe market —is not an easy car to define. The most common description of the entire IS line — which also includes the base IS 250, the more powerful IS 350 and the high-performance IS-F (all rear-drive) — is some variation of “it’s a worthy competitor to BMW’s 3 Series.” This would make the $42,500 328i xDrive sedan the $38,500 IS 250 AWD’s natural rival.
That’s not to denigrate the IS 250. There is much that’s appealing, starting with a pleasingly aerodynamic and sporty body style that sees a new grille and integrated turn signal lamps for the 2009 model year. And there are sporting aspirations from the car’s six-speed manumatic transmission,complete with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. In automatic, shifts are so smooth as to be barely perceptible. And, when playing boy racer, each nudge of the paddle or centre console-mounted gear lever brings an immediate upshift or downshift and not some “hold on a second while I figure out whatyou really want” hesitation
But it’s the engine that gives the IS 250 AWD the taste of plain vanilla rather than mocha chocolate supreme. In a nutshell, there’s not enough displacement or power. The 2.5-litre, DOHC V6 is plenty smooth, but 204 horsepower is about 50 ponies shy of a good start toward being taken seriously as a sport sedan. As it is, it’s still down 26 hp to the aforementioned BMW 328i rival. Plus, BMW holds in reserve the very quick,
300-hp 335i xDrive. If you want the benefits of all-wheel drive in a Lexus sedan along with more jones, you’re going to need to move up to the larger and pricier GS 350 AWD and its 303-hp 3.5L V6
Of equal disappointment is that the engine runs on premium unleaded and delivered a thirsty average fuel economy of 12.5 litres per 100 kilometres in a mix of suburban and highway usage. At 1,656 kilograms, the car is not stupidly heavy, and I wasn’t all that abusive of the gas pedal.
So the IS 250 AWD is more of a boulevardier. As such, it won over my wife, the smooth and serene yin to my fast and firm yang. Her compliments from the shotgun seat ranged from the Lexus’s sporting looks to the comfortable and heated seats to the tasteful interior and complementary colour scheme of the various trim bits. A car to aspire to was her final summation. While in total agreement — after 30 years together I have learned when to nod my head— I also noticed that the IS 250’s steering and handling provided more than suitable feedback. It’s worth noting that all of the IS line comes fitted with standard Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management as well as stability and traction control systems.
My appreciation of the IS 250’s whisper-quiet cabin — a Lexus hallmark — is tempered by only one thing, but it’s a biggie — the lack of rear-seat legroom. At 6-foot-2, I’m used to the compromises that come with testing compact cars. But the tight squeeze of trying out the BMW 335i’s rear quarters was nothing compared with the IS 250’s. I simply had no place to put any part of my legs. As a four-seater, the baby Lexus makes a better2+2.
The Lexus IS is a series of entry-level luxury cars / compact executive cars sold by Lexus since 1998. The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model slotted below the ES in the Lexus lineup (and outside of North America, the Lexus GS). The IS was originally sold under the Toyota Altezza nameplate in Japan (the word "altezza" is Italian for "highness") until the introduction of the Lexus brand and the second generation Lexus IS design in 2006. The Altezza name is still used at times to refer to chromed car taillights like those fitted to the first generation model, known as 'Altezza lights' or 'Lexus-style' lights.[1]
The first-generation Altezza (codename XE10) was launched in Japan in October 1998, while the Lexus IS 200 (GXE10) made its debut in Europe in 1999 and in North America as the IS 300 (JCE10) in 2000. The first-generation, inline-6-powered IS featured sedan and wagon variants. The second-generation IS (codename XE20) was launched globally in 2006 with V6-powered IS 250 (GSE20) and IS 350 (GSE21) sedan models. A high-performance V8 sedan version, the IS F, premiered in 2007. Hardtop convertible versions, the IS 250 C and IS 350 C, debuted in 2008. According to Lexus, the IS designation stands for Intelligent Sport.[2][3]
Introduced in 1998 with the AS200 (chassis code GXE10) and RS200 (chassis code SXE10) sedans, the compact vehicle was produced using a shortened front-engine, rear-wheel drive midsize platform,[5] allowing Japanese buyers to take advantage of tax savings imposed by Japanese government regulations concerning vehicle exterior dimensions and engine displacement, and adapted parts from the larger second generation Aristo/GS.[5] The 2.0-liter 1G-FE inline-six powered AS200 (GXE10, sedan) featured a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while a four-speed automatic was optional. The 2.0-liter 3S-GE inline-four powered RS200 (SXE10, sedan) featured a six-speed transmission, while a five-speed automatic was optional.
In 2000, a hatchback/station wagon model, the AS300 (chassis code JCE10), was introduced featuring a 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE inline-six engine. Equipped with rear- or all-wheel drive (JCE10, FR Gita Wagon; JCE15, 4WD Gita wagon), the AS300 featured a five-speed manual, or five-speed automatic for the FR Gita wagon and a four-speed automatic for the 4WD Gita wagon. The six-cylinder version (2JZ-GE) was only available in Japan on the Gita models. In the US, the IS 300 sedan debuted in 2000 as 2001 model and the wagon debuted in 2001 as a 2002 model with the same 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine (the 2.0-liter six-cylinder was not available), while in Europe, the IS 300 joined the IS 200 in the model lineup. All IS 300 models in the US were initially only available with the five-speed automatic transmission; this was also the case in Europe. However, a 5-speed manual was made available in the U.S. in 2002. Visually the exterior of the European IS 200 Sport and 300 were almost identical, the only differences being the boot insignia and the larger engined model initially having clear front indicators (later generalised to IS 200 range).
Following the total overhaul, a series of minor updates were introduced starting back in 2008, including leather heated front seats in the all-wheel drive model, a new finish for the standard wheels, illuminated mirror adjustment control and back-lit sill plates, along with a coin holder.
Then for the latest generation the IS 250 received some additional interior and trim changes, as well as the availability of an IS 250 F sport package, and HID headlamps with LED running lights are now optional. also changed are new 17-inch standard, and 18-inch optional wheels.
The 250 is motivated by a 2.5-liter V6 engine, which replaced the Supra-based inline-six of the first generation. The small engine makes 204 horsepower at 6,400 rpm along with 185 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm, thanks to its high compression ratio of 12.0:1 and variable valve timing. The least-expensive IS250 comes with a six-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels. The next step up adds a six-speed automatic, and the most expensive IS250 throws an all-wheel drive (AWD) system on top of that.
Fuel economy, as estimated by the EPA, is 21 mpg in the city cycle and 29 mpg on the highway. Interestingly, the manual transmission returns worse mileage, at 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The automatic AWD car is rated at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Standard safety fare is generous and includes airbags, traction and stability control in addition to anti-lock brakes, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution. Eight airbags as well as a tire-pressure monitoring system are part of all IS 250s as well. Comfort touches include a 13-speaker Lexus Premium Sound System with a six-disc in-dash changer with auxiliary iPod/MP3/WMA port.
The list of optional equipment is even longer, and includes sport tuned suspension, aluminum trim on the interior, a different front fascia, 18-inch wheels, leather interior with heated and ventilated seats, a voice-activated navigation system with rear parking assist and Bluetooth, a radar-enforced Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise control, parking assist, moonroof and more.
f you're shopping for an entry-level luxury sedan with a sporty disposition, you'll undoubtedly come across the compact Lexus IS 250. Although modestly powered for a premium-brand sport sedan, the IS 250 offers all the other virtues of the current IS series, including precise handling, a top-quality interior and an extensive array of high-tech features.
In addition, the Lexus IS 250 has typically offered a wider variety of drivetrain configurations than the more potent IS 350. On the standard rear-wheel-drive sedan, the company gives you a choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. If you've settled on the automatic, you have the option to order your IS 250 with all-wheel drive.
Choices are many in the highly competitive entry-luxury sedan market. The IS 250 is a respectable pick, but its lack of serious speed will deter hard-core enthusiasts, as will its muted steering feedback. And in terms of comfort, a cramped backseat means it won't be the best choice for families or those who frequently take on passengers.
Lexus sells the IS 250 in a single trim level, with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. For power, the 250 comes with a 2.5-liter V6 rated for 204 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Rear-drive models can be had with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, while the AWD car is only available with the automatic.
The standard equipment list includes 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition/entry, power front seats, leather upholstery and a 13-speaker sound system. Major options include xenon headlights, heated/ventilated front seats, a Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system, a navigation system and an F Sport package that includes a sport-tuned suspension and sport seats.
On the move, the Lexus IS 250 is smooth-riding and quiet but a bit light on emotion. Handling is secure and precise, particularly with the sport package fitted, but the IS never communicates with its driver the way a BMW 3 Series sedan does. Otherwise, the IS 250's dynamics are certainly on par with the other leading entry-luxury sedans. Acceleration is adequate for a car in this price range, but with 0-60-mph estimates falling around the 8-second mark, we'd hardly call it pulse-quickening.
Inside, the leather-lined Lexus IS 250 feels luxurious even in standard spec -- something that can't be said of many entry-level luxury sedans in this price range. Seat comfort and passenger room are excellent up front, but the backseat offers considerably less legroom than most competing luxury sport sedans do.
Introduced for the 2006 model year, the present-generation IS 250 represents the second iteration of the Lexus IS series. These earlier cars are pretty much the same as the current model, though there have been a few changes along the way. For 2009, Lexus restyled the grille, retuned the suspension and added a two-tone interior option. For 2010, there were a number of technology upgrades including a new iPod interface, enhanced Bluetooth and a hard-drive-based navigation system (compared to the earlier DVD-based unit).
The first generation, known as the IS 300 was sold from 2001-'05. This car was quicker and more involving to drive than today's IS 250, but it wasn't as roomy, refined or nearly as luxurious, with its cabin being more reminiscent of a lower-line Toyota than a Lexus.
Safety features on the IS models ranged from multiple airbags to stability control systems.[17] A Pre-Collision System (PCS) was the first offered in the entry-luxury performance sedan market segment. NHTSA crash test results rated the second generation IS the maximum five stars in the Side Driver and Rollover categories, and four stars in the Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger, and Side Rear Passenger categories;[18] Insurance Institute for Highway Safety scores were "Good" overall score for all fourteen measured categories in the front and side impact crash tests.[19][20]
The second generation IS marked the next introduction of Lexus' new L-finesse design philosophy on a production vehicle, following the premiere of the 2006 Lexus GS performance sedan. The sedan's exterior design featured sleeker, coupe-like contours, a fastback profile, and a repeated arrowhead motif in the front fascia and side windows.[21] The IS sedans carried a 0.28 Cd figure. The forward design was reminiscent of the earlier Lexus LF-C convertible coupe concept.
The Lexus IS 250 is a true sports sedan. It's quick and fun to drive thanks to its balanced chassis and advanced electronic stability control system.
Available in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, the IS 250 is powered by a 204 horsepower 2.5-liter V6. The rear-wheel drive IS 250 utilizes a standard six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic with Formula 1 inspired paddle-shifters available as an option. The all-wheel drive IS 250 uses the six-speed automatic transmission standard. Safety features include driver and front-passenger knee airbags. The brakes are large and effective four-wheel discs, clamped at the front by aluminum four-piston calipers. Augmenting the big brakes are ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist. Traction control also comes standard.
For 2010 the IS 250 receives foldable rear headrests, a USB jack, Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, and Safety Connect. Lexus Enform and XM NavTraffic/NavWeather are available.
The first generation IS 200/300 and RS200 series was used by many racing teams, including TRD, to race in various touring car racing series across Asia. In Europe, the Lexus IS 200 was raced in the British Touring Car Championship (through organizations such as BTC Racing),[34] and the IS 300 was raced in the U.S. via the Motorola Cup North American Street Stock Championship touring car series (with the manufacturer-sanctioned Team Lexus).
In 2001, Team Lexus entered three IS 300s in the third race of the 2001 Grand-Am Cup season at Phoenix, Arizona,[35] and won their first IS 300 victory that year at the Virginia International Raceway.[35] In 2002, Team Lexus raced the IS 300 in the Grand-Am Cup ST1 (Street Tuner) class, winning both the Drivers' and Team Championships,[36][37] as well as a sweep of the top three finishes at Circuit Mont-Tremblant in Quebec, Canada.[38]
In 2008, the second generation IS 350 was entered in the Super GT race series in the GT300 class (cars with approximately 300 horsepower). The #19 Team Racing Project Bandoh IS 350 driven by Manabu Orido and Tsubasa Abe achieved its first victory in its fifth race at the Motegi GT300 race.[39] In 2009, The Project Bandoh WedsSport IS 350, driven by Manabu Orido and Tatsuya Kataoka, won both driver and team title in the GT300 class that season.[40]
In April 2009, a Lexus IS F entered by Gazoo Racing finished second to the team's Lexus LF-A in the SP8 class[41] in the ADAC-Westfalenfahrt VLN 4h endurance race. A IS F was also entered in the 2009 24 Hours Nürburgring race and finished third in the SP8 class.[42] In August 2009, an IS F entered by Gazoo Racing and driven by Peter Lyon, Hideshi Matsuda, and Kazunori Yamauchi won the SP8 class at the DMV Grenzlandrennen VLN race.[43][44] Kazunori Yamauchi is the developer of Gran Turismo series,[44] of which the IS line is playable in several versions, and the IS F racer carried test equipment for future game modes.[45] The 3 drivers, along with Owen Mildenhall, participated in the 2010 24 Hours Nürburgring and finished in 4th place in the SP8 class, behind the 1st place ranked Lexus LFA.[46]
In 2009, the IS line received a styling refresh, and the suspension and steering was retuned for improved stability and control. After three years with only one body style, the IS returned with a second body style, this time as a hardtop convertible, on 2 October 2008 when the IS 250 C debuted at the Paris Motor Show.[30] A more powerful IS 350 C also became available, with engine specifications analogous to those on the sedan models. The IS convertible went on sale in Europe in 2009, in North America in May 2009,[30] and an IS 300 C was also produced for certain regions. The mid-cycle refresh in 2009 saw slight styling revisions to the interior.
In 2010, coinciding with the second IS line refresh, the diesel IS 220d was detuned with improved fuel consumption figures but lower power output by 27 bhp (20 kW; 27 PS). The addition was called the IS 200d[31] Building on its "F-Sport" line of parts and accessories for the IS 250/350,[32][33] Lexus added factory-produced F-Sport IS models in 2010.[31] The second refresh also include further interior updates for the IS line.
All second generation IS models offered a more typical Lexus interior compared to the previous generation with a focus on luxurious accouterments. The interior featured memory leather seats, lightsaber-like electroluminescent instrument display lighting and LED interior lighting accents, the choice of faux-metallic or optional Bird's Eye Maple wood trim (aluminum composite on the IS F), and SmartAccess keyless entry with push-button start.[29] Options ranged from touchscreen navigation with backup camera to a Mark Levinson premium sound system and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
The IS 250 compact-midsize luxury sedan, like most Lexus models, places emphasis on refinement and luxury while still offering decent driving dynamics. For 2011 the model comes in a single trim level. Power comes from an advanced quad-cam VVT-i 2.5-liter V6 engine making 204 hp, mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed paddle-shifted automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive models can be ordered with either transmission, while all-wheel drivers are limited to the automatic.
Standard equipment is quite generous, including 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity utilizing a 13-speaker stereo system with satellite radio, and Lexus' Safety Connect telematics system. Optional features include a navigation system, a rearview camera, a 14-speaker Mark Levinson enhanced audio system and the F Sport package, which adds a sport-tuned suspension and better brakes as well as visual enhancements. While at around $33,000 the IS 250 is a value buy in the luxury sport sedan segment, the more-powerful and better-equipped IS 350 is only around $6,000 more.
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The IS 250 AWD — Lexus’s least expensive entry in the sporty/luxe market —is not an easy car to define. The most common description of the entire IS line — which also includes the base IS 250, the more powerful IS 350 and the high-performance IS-F (all rear-drive) — is some variation of “it’s a worthy competitor to BMW’s 3 Series.” This would make the $42,500 328i xDrive sedan the $38,500 IS 250 AWD’s natural rival.
That’s not to denigrate the IS 250. There is much that’s appealing, starting with a pleasingly aerodynamic and sporty body style that sees a new grille and integrated turn signal lamps for the 2009 model year. And there are sporting aspirations from the car’s six-speed manumatic transmission,complete with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. In automatic, shifts are so smooth as to be barely perceptible. And, when playing boy racer, each nudge of the paddle or centre console-mounted gear lever brings an immediate upshift or downshift and not some “hold on a second while I figure out whatyou really want” hesitation
But it’s the engine that gives the IS 250 AWD the taste of plain vanilla rather than mocha chocolate supreme. In a nutshell, there’s not enough displacement or power. The 2.5-litre, DOHC V6 is plenty smooth, but 204 horsepower is about 50 ponies shy of a good start toward being taken seriously as a sport sedan. As it is, it’s still down 26 hp to the aforementioned BMW 328i rival. Plus, BMW holds in reserve the very quick,
300-hp 335i xDrive. If you want the benefits of all-wheel drive in a Lexus sedan along with more jones, you’re going to need to move up to the larger and pricier GS 350 AWD and its 303-hp 3.5L V6
Of equal disappointment is that the engine runs on premium unleaded and delivered a thirsty average fuel economy of 12.5 litres per 100 kilometres in a mix of suburban and highway usage. At 1,656 kilograms, the car is not stupidly heavy, and I wasn’t all that abusive of the gas pedal.
So the IS 250 AWD is more of a boulevardier. As such, it won over my wife, the smooth and serene yin to my fast and firm yang. Her compliments from the shotgun seat ranged from the Lexus’s sporting looks to the comfortable and heated seats to the tasteful interior and complementary colour scheme of the various trim bits. A car to aspire to was her final summation. While in total agreement — after 30 years together I have learned when to nod my head— I also noticed that the IS 250’s steering and handling provided more than suitable feedback. It’s worth noting that all of the IS line comes fitted with standard Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management as well as stability and traction control systems.
My appreciation of the IS 250’s whisper-quiet cabin — a Lexus hallmark — is tempered by only one thing, but it’s a biggie — the lack of rear-seat legroom. At 6-foot-2, I’m used to the compromises that come with testing compact cars. But the tight squeeze of trying out the BMW 335i’s rear quarters was nothing compared with the IS 250’s. I simply had no place to put any part of my legs. As a four-seater, the baby Lexus makes a better2+2.
The Lexus IS is a series of entry-level luxury cars / compact executive cars sold by Lexus since 1998. The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model slotted below the ES in the Lexus lineup (and outside of North America, the Lexus GS). The IS was originally sold under the Toyota Altezza nameplate in Japan (the word "altezza" is Italian for "highness") until the introduction of the Lexus brand and the second generation Lexus IS design in 2006. The Altezza name is still used at times to refer to chromed car taillights like those fitted to the first generation model, known as 'Altezza lights' or 'Lexus-style' lights.[1]
The first-generation Altezza (codename XE10) was launched in Japan in October 1998, while the Lexus IS 200 (GXE10) made its debut in Europe in 1999 and in North America as the IS 300 (JCE10) in 2000. The first-generation, inline-6-powered IS featured sedan and wagon variants. The second-generation IS (codename XE20) was launched globally in 2006 with V6-powered IS 250 (GSE20) and IS 350 (GSE21) sedan models. A high-performance V8 sedan version, the IS F, premiered in 2007. Hardtop convertible versions, the IS 250 C and IS 350 C, debuted in 2008. According to Lexus, the IS designation stands for Intelligent Sport.[2][3]
Introduced in 1998 with the AS200 (chassis code GXE10) and RS200 (chassis code SXE10) sedans, the compact vehicle was produced using a shortened front-engine, rear-wheel drive midsize platform,[5] allowing Japanese buyers to take advantage of tax savings imposed by Japanese government regulations concerning vehicle exterior dimensions and engine displacement, and adapted parts from the larger second generation Aristo/GS.[5] The 2.0-liter 1G-FE inline-six powered AS200 (GXE10, sedan) featured a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while a four-speed automatic was optional. The 2.0-liter 3S-GE inline-four powered RS200 (SXE10, sedan) featured a six-speed transmission, while a five-speed automatic was optional.
In 2000, a hatchback/station wagon model, the AS300 (chassis code JCE10), was introduced featuring a 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE inline-six engine. Equipped with rear- or all-wheel drive (JCE10, FR Gita Wagon; JCE15, 4WD Gita wagon), the AS300 featured a five-speed manual, or five-speed automatic for the FR Gita wagon and a four-speed automatic for the 4WD Gita wagon. The six-cylinder version (2JZ-GE) was only available in Japan on the Gita models. In the US, the IS 300 sedan debuted in 2000 as 2001 model and the wagon debuted in 2001 as a 2002 model with the same 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine (the 2.0-liter six-cylinder was not available), while in Europe, the IS 300 joined the IS 200 in the model lineup. All IS 300 models in the US were initially only available with the five-speed automatic transmission; this was also the case in Europe. However, a 5-speed manual was made available in the U.S. in 2002. Visually the exterior of the European IS 200 Sport and 300 were almost identical, the only differences being the boot insignia and the larger engined model initially having clear front indicators (later generalised to IS 200 range).
Following the total overhaul, a series of minor updates were introduced starting back in 2008, including leather heated front seats in the all-wheel drive model, a new finish for the standard wheels, illuminated mirror adjustment control and back-lit sill plates, along with a coin holder.
Then for the latest generation the IS 250 received some additional interior and trim changes, as well as the availability of an IS 250 F sport package, and HID headlamps with LED running lights are now optional. also changed are new 17-inch standard, and 18-inch optional wheels.
The 250 is motivated by a 2.5-liter V6 engine, which replaced the Supra-based inline-six of the first generation. The small engine makes 204 horsepower at 6,400 rpm along with 185 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm, thanks to its high compression ratio of 12.0:1 and variable valve timing. The least-expensive IS250 comes with a six-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels. The next step up adds a six-speed automatic, and the most expensive IS250 throws an all-wheel drive (AWD) system on top of that.
Fuel economy, as estimated by the EPA, is 21 mpg in the city cycle and 29 mpg on the highway. Interestingly, the manual transmission returns worse mileage, at 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The automatic AWD car is rated at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Standard safety fare is generous and includes airbags, traction and stability control in addition to anti-lock brakes, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution. Eight airbags as well as a tire-pressure monitoring system are part of all IS 250s as well. Comfort touches include a 13-speaker Lexus Premium Sound System with a six-disc in-dash changer with auxiliary iPod/MP3/WMA port.
The list of optional equipment is even longer, and includes sport tuned suspension, aluminum trim on the interior, a different front fascia, 18-inch wheels, leather interior with heated and ventilated seats, a voice-activated navigation system with rear parking assist and Bluetooth, a radar-enforced Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise control, parking assist, moonroof and more.
f you're shopping for an entry-level luxury sedan with a sporty disposition, you'll undoubtedly come across the compact Lexus IS 250. Although modestly powered for a premium-brand sport sedan, the IS 250 offers all the other virtues of the current IS series, including precise handling, a top-quality interior and an extensive array of high-tech features.
In addition, the Lexus IS 250 has typically offered a wider variety of drivetrain configurations than the more potent IS 350. On the standard rear-wheel-drive sedan, the company gives you a choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. If you've settled on the automatic, you have the option to order your IS 250 with all-wheel drive.
Choices are many in the highly competitive entry-luxury sedan market. The IS 250 is a respectable pick, but its lack of serious speed will deter hard-core enthusiasts, as will its muted steering feedback. And in terms of comfort, a cramped backseat means it won't be the best choice for families or those who frequently take on passengers.
Lexus sells the IS 250 in a single trim level, with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. For power, the 250 comes with a 2.5-liter V6 rated for 204 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Rear-drive models can be had with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic, while the AWD car is only available with the automatic.
The standard equipment list includes 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition/entry, power front seats, leather upholstery and a 13-speaker sound system. Major options include xenon headlights, heated/ventilated front seats, a Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system, a navigation system and an F Sport package that includes a sport-tuned suspension and sport seats.
On the move, the Lexus IS 250 is smooth-riding and quiet but a bit light on emotion. Handling is secure and precise, particularly with the sport package fitted, but the IS never communicates with its driver the way a BMW 3 Series sedan does. Otherwise, the IS 250's dynamics are certainly on par with the other leading entry-luxury sedans. Acceleration is adequate for a car in this price range, but with 0-60-mph estimates falling around the 8-second mark, we'd hardly call it pulse-quickening.
Inside, the leather-lined Lexus IS 250 feels luxurious even in standard spec -- something that can't be said of many entry-level luxury sedans in this price range. Seat comfort and passenger room are excellent up front, but the backseat offers considerably less legroom than most competing luxury sport sedans do.
Introduced for the 2006 model year, the present-generation IS 250 represents the second iteration of the Lexus IS series. These earlier cars are pretty much the same as the current model, though there have been a few changes along the way. For 2009, Lexus restyled the grille, retuned the suspension and added a two-tone interior option. For 2010, there were a number of technology upgrades including a new iPod interface, enhanced Bluetooth and a hard-drive-based navigation system (compared to the earlier DVD-based unit).
The first generation, known as the IS 300 was sold from 2001-'05. This car was quicker and more involving to drive than today's IS 250, but it wasn't as roomy, refined or nearly as luxurious, with its cabin being more reminiscent of a lower-line Toyota than a Lexus.
Safety features on the IS models ranged from multiple airbags to stability control systems.[17] A Pre-Collision System (PCS) was the first offered in the entry-luxury performance sedan market segment. NHTSA crash test results rated the second generation IS the maximum five stars in the Side Driver and Rollover categories, and four stars in the Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger, and Side Rear Passenger categories;[18] Insurance Institute for Highway Safety scores were "Good" overall score for all fourteen measured categories in the front and side impact crash tests.[19][20]
The second generation IS marked the next introduction of Lexus' new L-finesse design philosophy on a production vehicle, following the premiere of the 2006 Lexus GS performance sedan. The sedan's exterior design featured sleeker, coupe-like contours, a fastback profile, and a repeated arrowhead motif in the front fascia and side windows.[21] The IS sedans carried a 0.28 Cd figure. The forward design was reminiscent of the earlier Lexus LF-C convertible coupe concept.
The Lexus IS 250 is a true sports sedan. It's quick and fun to drive thanks to its balanced chassis and advanced electronic stability control system.
Available in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, the IS 250 is powered by a 204 horsepower 2.5-liter V6. The rear-wheel drive IS 250 utilizes a standard six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic with Formula 1 inspired paddle-shifters available as an option. The all-wheel drive IS 250 uses the six-speed automatic transmission standard. Safety features include driver and front-passenger knee airbags. The brakes are large and effective four-wheel discs, clamped at the front by aluminum four-piston calipers. Augmenting the big brakes are ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist. Traction control also comes standard.
For 2010 the IS 250 receives foldable rear headrests, a USB jack, Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, and Safety Connect. Lexus Enform and XM NavTraffic/NavWeather are available.
The first generation IS 200/300 and RS200 series was used by many racing teams, including TRD, to race in various touring car racing series across Asia. In Europe, the Lexus IS 200 was raced in the British Touring Car Championship (through organizations such as BTC Racing),[34] and the IS 300 was raced in the U.S. via the Motorola Cup North American Street Stock Championship touring car series (with the manufacturer-sanctioned Team Lexus).
In 2001, Team Lexus entered three IS 300s in the third race of the 2001 Grand-Am Cup season at Phoenix, Arizona,[35] and won their first IS 300 victory that year at the Virginia International Raceway.[35] In 2002, Team Lexus raced the IS 300 in the Grand-Am Cup ST1 (Street Tuner) class, winning both the Drivers' and Team Championships,[36][37] as well as a sweep of the top three finishes at Circuit Mont-Tremblant in Quebec, Canada.[38]
In 2008, the second generation IS 350 was entered in the Super GT race series in the GT300 class (cars with approximately 300 horsepower). The #19 Team Racing Project Bandoh IS 350 driven by Manabu Orido and Tsubasa Abe achieved its first victory in its fifth race at the Motegi GT300 race.[39] In 2009, The Project Bandoh WedsSport IS 350, driven by Manabu Orido and Tatsuya Kataoka, won both driver and team title in the GT300 class that season.[40]
In April 2009, a Lexus IS F entered by Gazoo Racing finished second to the team's Lexus LF-A in the SP8 class[41] in the ADAC-Westfalenfahrt VLN 4h endurance race. A IS F was also entered in the 2009 24 Hours Nürburgring race and finished third in the SP8 class.[42] In August 2009, an IS F entered by Gazoo Racing and driven by Peter Lyon, Hideshi Matsuda, and Kazunori Yamauchi won the SP8 class at the DMV Grenzlandrennen VLN race.[43][44] Kazunori Yamauchi is the developer of Gran Turismo series,[44] of which the IS line is playable in several versions, and the IS F racer carried test equipment for future game modes.[45] The 3 drivers, along with Owen Mildenhall, participated in the 2010 24 Hours Nürburgring and finished in 4th place in the SP8 class, behind the 1st place ranked Lexus LFA.[46]
In 2009, the IS line received a styling refresh, and the suspension and steering was retuned for improved stability and control. After three years with only one body style, the IS returned with a second body style, this time as a hardtop convertible, on 2 October 2008 when the IS 250 C debuted at the Paris Motor Show.[30] A more powerful IS 350 C also became available, with engine specifications analogous to those on the sedan models. The IS convertible went on sale in Europe in 2009, in North America in May 2009,[30] and an IS 300 C was also produced for certain regions. The mid-cycle refresh in 2009 saw slight styling revisions to the interior.
In 2010, coinciding with the second IS line refresh, the diesel IS 220d was detuned with improved fuel consumption figures but lower power output by 27 bhp (20 kW; 27 PS). The addition was called the IS 200d[31] Building on its "F-Sport" line of parts and accessories for the IS 250/350,[32][33] Lexus added factory-produced F-Sport IS models in 2010.[31] The second refresh also include further interior updates for the IS line.
All second generation IS models offered a more typical Lexus interior compared to the previous generation with a focus on luxurious accouterments. The interior featured memory leather seats, lightsaber-like electroluminescent instrument display lighting and LED interior lighting accents, the choice of faux-metallic or optional Bird's Eye Maple wood trim (aluminum composite on the IS F), and SmartAccess keyless entry with push-button start.[29] Options ranged from touchscreen navigation with backup camera to a Mark Levinson premium sound system and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
The IS 250 compact-midsize luxury sedan, like most Lexus models, places emphasis on refinement and luxury while still offering decent driving dynamics. For 2011 the model comes in a single trim level. Power comes from an advanced quad-cam VVT-i 2.5-liter V6 engine making 204 hp, mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed paddle-shifted automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive models can be ordered with either transmission, while all-wheel drivers are limited to the automatic.
Standard equipment is quite generous, including 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity utilizing a 13-speaker stereo system with satellite radio, and Lexus' Safety Connect telematics system. Optional features include a navigation system, a rearview camera, a 14-speaker Mark Levinson enhanced audio system and the F Sport package, which adds a sport-tuned suspension and better brakes as well as visual enhancements. While at around $33,000 the IS 250 is a value buy in the luxury sport sedan segment, the more-powerful and better-equipped IS 350 is only around $6,000 more.
Lexus is250
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