Likes
- Typical superb Lexus build quality and reliability.
- Offers excellent value for money.
- Refined and enjoyable driving experience.
- Parts and maintenance are very affordable.
Used Lexus IS (XE20) review
2005 - 2014
Dislikes
- Can lack the image of its European rivals.
- Dashboards can literally melt.
- Not the most frugal in terms of fuel consumption.
- Many on the used market have seen better days.
Stuff you should know
Competing head-to-head with the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi A4, the Lexus IS has been a contender since its debut in 1998. In this overview, we will focus on the second generation models spanning from 2005 to 2014 (XE20). If you’re interested in comprehensive reviews of the first and third-generation IS models, our cheat sheets for those are also available.
Within the realm of the second generation, prospective buyers are presented with various options. The predominant configuration is a 4-door sedan, but 2-door coupe convertibles are also part of the lineup.
In terms of power, the Australian market predominantly features 2.5 or 3.5-litre 6-cylinder engines, channeling power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission, although 6-speed manuals are available. For those seeking a more robust performance, the ISF model boasts a formidable 5.0-litre V8 engine. A dedicated cheat sheet for the ISF is available for those interested.
Referring back to the 6-cylinder models, consumers are then faced with choices in trim specifications. The options may differ based on whether the IS is pre or post the 2008 update. Speaking of the update, it wasn’t merely a cosmetic refresh and trim adjustment; it encompassed retuned steering and suspension, the introduction of 3.5-litre engines, and an update to safety features.
Concerning trim specifications, pre-update, there are five choices. However, post-update, Lexus streamlined the lineup to three, and all relevant details are outlined below.
On the used market, the Lexus IS has garnered a stellar reputation for reliability and build quality. Its shared components with various Toyota models contribute to straightforward and affordable repairs. Despite these merits, due to the age of this generation, it’s essential to explore potential issues that may arise – read on to uncover the intricacies.
What goes wrong
Exterior:
Beginning with the exterior, a common issue across numerous Toyotas and Lexus models of this era is malfunctioning door lock actuators. Fortunately, rectifying this problem is a straightforward and budget-friendly fix.
Specifically on 2007 models, there have been reported issues with headlights, such as flickering or even turning off. These problems appear to stem from deeper electrical concerns, though they are not widespread.
Some sporadic reports indicate water leakage into the trunk, causing complications with the stereo amplifier. This could lead to potentially expensive repair costs.
Interior:
Moving to the interior, a recurrent problem is the occurrence of sticky dashboards and door trims. In hot weather, the materials used are highly susceptible to heat, resulting in potential melting.
Another concern is the dashboard becoming shiny in the heat, reflecting off the windscreen. Additionally, there have been instances of discoloration in the inside rearview mirror.
An issue commonly associated with Toyota models is the dissatisfaction among owners with the infotainment systems. Problems include Bluetooth dropping out, challenging pairing processes, blank screens, radio interruptions, and overall poor functionality. Many recommend replacing the system with a high-quality aftermarket alternative.
Mechanically:
Mechanically, all versions of the V6 engines in these models are widely recognised as among the most reliable petrol engines available. While occasional instances of a leaking water pump or minor oil leaks may occur, they are significantly less common than in comparable vehicles.
Regarding oil leaks, valve cover and timing cover gasket leaks are typically the culprits. In the IS models where the engine is longitudinally mounted, they are easier to access and repair compared to when they are transversely mounted in RX models.
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) gears in earlier models may occasionally fail, though this is not a prevalent issue. The timing chains in these models are deemed robust, standing out when compared to some of their European competitors with problematic timing chains that can be costly to fix.
Head gasket leaks stemming from rusty (steel) gaskets are rare if the coolant has been properly maintained. In cases of a sketchy service history, some units may consume a bit of oil, but their tolerance for neglect surpasses that of their competitors.
The transmissions in these vehicles—both manual and automatic—are generally reliable. Manual transmissions are fundamentally the same as many Toyota RWD transmissions and perform well overall. While automatic transmissions don’t often fail, when they do, repairs can be expensive. Regular maintenance helps mitigate potential issues. Despite their overall reliability, it’s worth noting that at this age, engine bay plastics and rubber components are subject to aging.
Exterior:
Beginning with the exterior, a common issue across numerous Toyotas and Lexus models of this era is malfunctioning door lock actuators. Fortunately, rectifying this problem is a straightforward and budget-friendly fix.
Specifically on 2007 models, there have been reported issues with headlights, such as flickering or even turning off. These problems appear to stem from deeper electrical concerns, though they are not widespread.
Some sporadic reports indicate water leakage into the trunk, causing complications with the stereo amplifier. This could lead to potentially expensive repair costs.
Interior:
Moving to the interior, a recurrent problem is the occurrence of sticky dashboards and door trims. In hot weather, the materials used are highly susceptible to heat, resulting in potential melting.
Another concern is the dashboard becoming shiny in the heat, reflecting off the windscreen. Additionally, there have been instances of discoloration in the inside rearview mirror.
An issue commonly associated with Toyota models is the dissatisfaction among owners with the infotainment systems. Problems include Bluetooth dropping out, challenging pairing processes, blank screens, radio interruptions, and overall poor functionality. Many recommend replacing the system with a high-quality aftermarket alternative.
Mechanically:
Mechanically, all versions of the V6 engines in these models are widely recognised as among the most reliable petrol engines available. While occasional instances of a leaking water pump or minor oil leaks may occur, they are significantly less common than in comparable vehicles.
Regarding oil leaks, valve cover and timing cover gasket leaks are typically the culprits. In the IS models where the engine is longitudinally mounted, they are easier to access and repair compared to when they are transversely mounted in RX models.
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) gears in earlier models may occasionally fail, though this is not a prevalent issue. The timing chains in these models are deemed robust, standing out when compared to some of their European competitors with problematic timing chains that can be costly to fix.
Head gasket leaks stemming from rusty (steel) gaskets are rare if the coolant has been properly maintained. In cases of a sketchy service history, some units may consume a bit of oil, but their tolerance for neglect surpasses that of their competitors.
The transmissions in these vehicles—both manual and automatic—are generally reliable. Manual transmissions are fundamentally the same as many Toyota RWD transmissions and perform well overall. While automatic transmissions don’t often fail, when they do, repairs can be expensive. Regular maintenance helps mitigate potential issues. Despite their overall reliability, it’s worth noting that at this age, engine bay plastics and rubber components are subject to aging.
Exterior:
Beginning with the exterior, a common issue across numerous Toyotas and Lexus models of this era is malfunctioning door lock actuators. Fortunately, rectifying this problem is a straightforward and budget-friendly fix.
Specifically on 2007 models, there have been reported issues with headlights, such as flickering or even turning off. These problems appear to stem from deeper electrical concerns, though they are not widespread.
Some sporadic reports indicate water leakage into the trunk, causing complications with the stereo amplifier. This could lead to potentially expensive repair costs.
Interior:
Moving to the interior, a recurrent problem is the occurrence of sticky dashboards and door trims. In hot weather, the materials used are highly susceptible to heat, resulting in potential melting.
Another concern is the dashboard becoming shiny in the heat, reflecting off the windscreen. Additionally, there have been instances of discoloration in the inside rearview mirror.
An issue commonly associated with Toyota models is the dissatisfaction among owners with the infotainment systems. Problems include Bluetooth dropping out, challenging pairing processes, blank screens, radio interruptions, and overall poor functionality. Many recommend replacing the system with a high-quality aftermarket alternative.
Mechanically:
Mechanically, all versions of the V6 engines in these models are widely recognised as among the most reliable petrol engines available. While occasional instances of a leaking water pump or minor oil leaks may occur, they are significantly less common than in comparable vehicles.
Regarding oil leaks, valve cover and timing cover gasket leaks are typically the culprits. In the IS models where the engine is longitudinally mounted, they are easier to access and repair compared to when they are transversely mounted in RX models.
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) gears in earlier models may occasionally fail, though this is not a prevalent issue. The timing chains in these models are deemed robust, standing out when compared to some of their European competitors with problematic timing chains that can be costly to fix.
Head gasket leaks stemming from rusty (steel) gaskets are rare if the coolant has been properly maintained. In cases of a sketchy service history, some units may consume a bit of oil, but their tolerance for neglect surpasses that of their competitors.
The transmissions in these vehicles—both manual and automatic—are generally reliable. Manual transmissions are fundamentally the same as many Toyota RWD transmissions and perform well overall. While automatic transmissions don’t often fail, when they do, repairs can be expensive. Regular maintenance helps mitigate potential issues. Despite their overall reliability, it’s worth noting that at this age, engine bay plastics and rubber components are subject to aging.
Should you buy it?
Should you buy one? Simply yes.
Obviously do all your due diligence and avoid any that have been abused unless you’re buying one as a project car.
Overall, you should buy a second generation Lexus IS over anything else in this class at this price, except maybe a Toyota Crown, but we’ve covered that in a whole other cheat sheet.
Should you buy one? Simply yes.
Obviously do all your due diligence and avoid any that have been abused unless you’re buying one as a project car.
Overall, you should buy a second generation Lexus IS over anything else in this class at this price, except maybe a Toyota Crown, but we’ve covered that in a whole other cheat sheet.
Should you buy it?
Should you buy one? Simply yes.
Obviously do all your due diligence and avoid any that have been abused unless you’re buying one as a project car.
Overall, you should buy a second generation Lexus IS over anything else in this class at this price, except maybe a Toyota Crown, but we’ve covered that in a whole other cheat sheet.
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Models, pricing & features
Tech specs
Body Styles
- 4 door Sedan
- 2 door Convertible
Engine Specs
- 2.5 litre, 6-cylinder petrol, 153kW / 252Nm (IS250 Prestige 2005 – 2013, IS250 Sports 2005 – 2008, IS250 Sports Luxury 2005 – 2013, IS250 X 2007 – 2013, IS250 C Prestige 2009 – 2014, IS250 C Sports 2009 – 2012, IS250 C Sports Luxury 2009 – 2014, IS250 F Sport 2010 – 2013, IS250 C F Sport 2012 – 2014)
- 5.0 litre, 8-cylinder petrol, 311kW / 505Nm (IS F Sports Luxury 2008 – 2009, IS F 2009 – 2014)
- 3.5 litre, 6-cylinder petrol, 233kW / 378Nm (IS350 Prestige 2010 – 2013, IS350 F Sport 2010 – 2013, IS350 Sports Luxury 2010 – 2013, IS350 X 2012 – 2013)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 X)
- 6-speed Sports Automatic (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 F Sport, IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X, IS250 C F Sport)
- 8-speed Sports Automatic (IS F Sports Luxury, IS F)
Fuel Consumption
- 7.0 – 12.7 / 100km (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS250 F Sport)
- 8.3 – 16.8 / 100km (IS F Sports Luxury, IS F)
- 7.1 – 13.1 / 100km (IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 C F Sport)
- 7.2 – 13.3 / 100km (IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X)
Length
- 4575mm – 4660mm
Body Styles
- 4 door Sedan
- 2 door Convertible
Engine Specs
- 2.5 litre, 6-cylinder petrol, 153kW / 252Nm (IS250 Prestige 2005 – 2013, IS250 Sports 2005 – 2008, IS250 Sports Luxury 2005 – 2013, IS250 X 2007 – 2013, IS250 C Prestige 2009 – 2014, IS250 C Sports 2009 – 2012, IS250 C Sports Luxury 2009 – 2014, IS250 F Sport 2010 – 2013, IS250 C F Sport 2012 – 2014)
- 5.0 litre, 8-cylinder petrol, 311kW / 505Nm (IS F Sports Luxury 2008 – 2009, IS F 2009 – 2014)
- 3.5 litre, 6-cylinder petrol, 233kW / 378Nm (IS350 Prestige 2010 – 2013, IS350 F Sport 2010 – 2013, IS350 Sports Luxury 2010 – 2013, IS350 X 2012 – 2013)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 X)
- 6-speed Sports Automatic (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 F Sport, IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X, IS250 C F Sport)
- 8-speed Sports Automatic (IS F Sports Luxury, IS F)
Fuel Consumption
- 7.0 – 12.7 / 100km (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS250 F Sport)
- 8.3 – 16.8 / 100km (IS F Sports Luxury, IS F)
- 7.1 – 13.1 / 100km (IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 C F Sport)
- 7.2 – 13.3 / 100km (IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X)
Length
- 4575mm – 4660mm (4 door Sedan)
- 4635mm (2 door Convertible)
Width
- 1800mm – 1815mm (4 door Sedan)
- 1800mm (2 door Convertible)
Height
- 1415mm – 1425mm (4 door Sedan)
- 1415mm (2 door Convertible)
Wheelbase
- 2730mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1560kg – 1700kg (4 door Sedan)
- 1730kg – 1750kg (2 door Convertible)
Towing
- Unknown kg (unbraked) – 1500kg (braked) (4 door Sedan)
- Not listed (2 door Convertible)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS F Sports Luxury, IS F, IS250 F Sport, IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X)
- Not tested (IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 C F Sport)
Body Styles
- 4 door Sedan
- 2 door Convertible
Engine Specs
- 2.5 litre, 6-cylinder petrol, 153kW / 252Nm (IS250 Prestige 2005 – 2013, IS250 Sports 2005 – 2008, IS250 Sports Luxury 2005 – 2013, IS250 X 2007 – 2013, IS250 C Prestige 2009 – 2014, IS250 C Sports 2009 – 2012, IS250 C Sports Luxury 2009 – 2014, IS250 F Sport 2010 – 2013, IS250 C F Sport 2012 – 2014)
- 5.0 litre, 8-cylinder petrol, 311kW / 505Nm (IS F Sports Luxury 2008 – 2009, IS F 2009 – 2014)
- 3.5 litre, 6-cylinder petrol, 233kW / 378Nm (IS350 Prestige 2010 – 2013, IS350 F Sport 2010 – 2013, IS350 Sports Luxury 2010 – 2013, IS350 X 2012 – 2013)
Transmission
- 6-speed Manual (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 X)
- 6-speed Sports Automatic (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 F Sport, IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X, IS250 C F Sport)
- 8-speed Sports Automatic (IS F Sports Luxury, IS F)
Fuel Consumption
- 7.0 – 12.7 / 100km (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS250 F Sport)
- 8.3 – 16.8 / 100km (IS F Sports Luxury, IS F)
- 7.1 – 13.1 / 100km (IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 C F Sport)
- 7.2 – 13.3 / 100km (IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X)
Length
- 4575mm – 4660mm (4 door Sedan)
- 4635mm (2 door Convertible)
Width
- 1800mm – 1815mm (4 door Sedan)
- 1800mm (2 door Convertible)
Height
- 1415mm – 1425mm (4 door Sedan)
- 1415mm (2 door Convertible)
Wheelbase
- 2730mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1560kg – 1700kg (4 door Sedan)
- 1730kg – 1750kg (2 door Convertible)
Towing
- Unknown kg (unbraked) – 1500kg (braked) (4 door Sedan)
- Not listed (2 door Convertible)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars (IS250 Prestige, IS250 Sports, IS250 Sports Luxury, IS250 X, IS F Sports Luxury, IS F, IS250 F Sport, IS350 Prestige, IS350 F Sport, IS350 Sports Luxury, IS350 X)
- Not tested (IS250 C Prestige, IS250 C Sports, IS250 C Sports Luxury, IS250 C F Sport)
Warranty & servicing
Warranty
- 4 years / 100,000 km (All Models)
Servicing
- 15,000 km / 12 months (All Models)
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Jan 25, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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