Lexus has long stood as a beacon in the luxury automotive market, synonymous with an unwavering commitment to quality, sophisticated design, and, perhaps most notably, incredible reliability. For two decades, countless used Lexus owners have celebrated logging thousands upon thousands of miles, testament to the brand’s engineering prowess. Some truly remarkable examples have even defied expectations, cruising past the astonishing one-million-mile mark, a clear indicator of their robust construction and enduring spirit. This reputation for dependability makes Lexus an exceptionally intelligent choice for anyone navigating the dynamic landscape of the used car market, particularly those seeking a blend of opulent comfort and long-term peace of mind.
The allure of a pre-owned luxury vehicle often comes with a cautious glance at potential maintenance costs and unforeseen issues. However, with Lexus, this concern is significantly mitigated. As the premium division of Toyota, Lexus benefits from a legacy of meticulous engineering and a philosophy centered on incremental improvements rather than radical overhauls. This conservative yet effective approach ensures that “cars from those brands are reliable when new and they continue to be reliable as they age,” as noted by Steven Elek, senior automotive data analyst at Consumer Reports. This insight is crucial for used car buyers, as it translates directly into a reduced risk of encountering trouble down the road and offers a more predictable ownership experience, confirming that investing in a used Lexus is typically a safe bet.
For those in the market for a high-quality, dependable used sedan, Lexus offers a compelling array of choices that consistently rise to the top of reliability rankings from reputable sources like U.S. News, J.D. Power, and Consumer Reports. These vehicles don’t just promise luxury; they deliver on the fundamental expectation of a car that performs consistently, day in and day out, for years to come. In this in-depth guide, we’re going to dive into some of the most reliable Lexus sedans you can find on the used market, meticulously examining their features, performance, and why they continue to be smart investments for discerning drivers. Get ready to discover your next reliable luxury ride.
1. **2015 Lexus GS Series**The 2015 Lexus GS stands out as an exceptional choice in the luxury midsize car segment, earning a top spot on lists for its outstanding safety and reliability ratings, according to U.S. News. This particular model year encapsulates everything a discerning driver could desire in a premium sedan, striking an impressive balance between raw power, agile handling, and an interior designed for ultimate comfort. It truly offers a complete package, catering to those who appreciate a spirited drive without compromising on the plush experience synonymous with the Lexus brand.
Underneath its sophisticated exterior, the 2015 Lexus GS is powered by a formidable 3.5-liter V6 engine, which effortlessly churns out a robust 306 horsepower. This powerplant ensures that the GS is not just a comfortable cruiser but also a capable performer, delivering exhilarating acceleration and responsive throttle input whenever needed. For drivers residing in areas prone to challenging weather conditions, the available all-wheel-drive system is a significant advantage, providing enhanced traction and making the car remarkably easy to handle even in snowy or slippery environments. This versatility adds another layer to its appeal as a practical yet luxurious daily driver.
The interior of the 2015 Lexus GS is a sanctuary of refinement, adorned with high-quality leather upholstery that invites occupants into a world of comfort. Standard amenities include 8-way power seats, allowing for precise adjustments to find the perfect driving position, and a moonroof that bathes the cabin in natural light, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Furthermore, audiophiles will appreciate the immersive experience provided by the 12-speaker premium sound system, transforming every journey into a concert on wheels. While an 8-inch infotainment display is present, interaction is primarily managed through the Lexus Remote Touch controller.
Building on the strong foundation of the GS series, the 2015 Lexus GS350 specifically came equipped with a premium unleaded V-6 engine, generating the same impressive 306 hp, making it an excellent daily commuting vehicle. Owner reviews consistently highlight its ease of maintenance, further cementing its status as a practical luxury car. The overall build quality of the 2015 GS350, both inside and out, is exceptional, reflecting Lexus’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and durability, and securing its place as one of the best used Lexus mid-size luxury sport sedans available.
Car Model Information: 2014 Lexus GS 350 Base
Name: Lexus GS
Caption: 2012 Lexus GS 450h F Sport (Germany)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Aristo (Japan; 1991–2005)
Production: ubl
ModelYears: 1994–2020
Class: Executive car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Layout: ubl
Related: Toyota Crown
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles containing potentially dated statements
Summary: The Lexus GS (Japanese: レクサス・GS, Rekusasu GS) is an executive car (E-segment in Europe) manufactured and marketed by Lexus across four generations — launched in 1991 as the Toyota Aristo in Japan and as the Lexus GS for markets outside the Japanese market beginning in February 1993. It continued with the Toyota Aristo name for the Japanese market until January 2005.
Lexus marketed the GS as a performance sedan competing in the mid-luxury class, between its compact executive IS and large/flagship LS. The GS shared its chassis with one of Toyota’s longest-running nameplates, the Toyota Crown premium sedans until 2011.
The GS featured six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive, with V8 engines offered for all generations. All-wheel drive and hybrid versions debuted in 2005. Previously, all-wheel drive versions were already made available in the Japanese-market S140 series Aristo. The first two generations had a Japanese market equivalent, the Toyota Aristo (aristo is Greek for “the best”), which was sold from 1991 until the Lexus marque’s Japanese debut in 2005. Though largely identical in exterior and interior design, the GS and the Aristo differed in their engine and transmission combinations as well as equipment packages. The GS name stands for Grand Sedan. However, some Lexus importers use the backronymic name, Grand Sport.
The first generation Lexus GS began sales in the United States, Europe and selected Asian markets in 1993. It was originally introduced with an inline-six engine and exterior bodywork designed by Italdesign Giugiaro. The second generation model premiered in 1997, using a new platform, in-house styling, and adding a V8 version for the first time outside Japan. The third generation GS, which premiered globally for the 2006 model year, was produced in V6, V8, and hybrid versions, the latter known as the GS 450h. The third generation models were the first GS sedans to be badged as such in the Japanese market.
The fourth generation Lexus GS premiered in August 2011 at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where models introduced included the V6-powered GS 350, hybrid GS 450h, and performance-tuned F Sport variants. A lower-displacement V6 model, the GS 250, premiered at the Auto Guangzhou Exhibition in November 2011, targeted at Asian and European markets. In some markets such as North America and Asia, the GS shares the mid-size sedan category in the Lexus lineup with the front-wheel drive ES, serving as its rear-wheel-drive counterpart.
The GS was replaced in Europe by the Lexus ES from December 2018. The seventh generation ES is the first to be sold in Europe, replacing the GS in spite of being a front-wheel drive car. It went on sale from September 2018 in Russia, Turkey and other CIS markets and from December 2018 in Western and Central Europe. Production ended in August 2020.
Get more information about: Lexus GS
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Brand: Lexus Model: GS
Price: $19,794 Mileage: 89,779 mi.
Read more about: From Dream to Disaster: The Unforgettable Rides That Stole Our Hearts, and the Automotive Letdowns That Left Us Stranded
2. **2017 Lexus ES**The 2017 Lexus ES emerges as another formidable contender in the used luxury sedan market, earning a stellar 4.5 out of 5 for predicted reliability from J.D. Power. This impressive rating isn’t just a number; it’s a reflection of the real-world experiences of countless current owners who have relished years of trouble-free driving. The ES series has been a cornerstone of the Lexus lineup since its debut in the early 1990s, with its consistent performance and enduring quality cementing its reputation as a preferred choice for used car buyers seeking both luxury and longevity.
Beyond its relentless reliability, the 2017 ES offers an abundance of space, comfortably accommodating up to five passengers, making it an ideal choice for families or individuals who frequently travel with company. The sedan is renowned for its remarkably soft and compliant ride, expertly absorbing road imperfections to deliver a serene and isolated cabin experience. This focus on ride comfort ensures that every journey, whether a short commute or a long-distance trip, is characterized by tranquility and ease, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing passenger enjoyment.
The interior of the 2017 Lexus ES is a testament to luxury, brimming with a wealth of premium features designed to elevate the driving experience. Key highlights include sumptuous leather upholstery, providing both comfort and a sophisticated aesthetic, and power seats that allow for effortless adjustments to personalize the driving and passenger positions. For an enhanced audio experience, a premium Bose audio system is available, delivering rich, crystal-clear sound throughout the cabin. These thoughtful inclusions collectively contribute to an atmosphere of understated elegance and high-end convenience, typical of the Lexus pedigree.
What truly sets the Lexus ES apart for used car buyers is its remarkable ability to marry luxury with practicality without an exorbitant price tag. This series is engineered for durability, and its components are known to wear well over time, reflecting Lexus’s overarching commitment to product longevity. Maintenance is also a shining area, with parts often shared with the highly dependable Toyota brand, tending to be more affordable compared to those for other luxury makes. This makes the 2017 ES not just a luxurious and reliable choice, but also a financially savvy one that promises to last for years, delivering unwavering dependability.
Car Model Information: 2021 Lexus ES 350 Base
Name: Lexus ES
Caption: Lexus ES 350 (GSZ10)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: June 1989 – present
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
ModelYears: 1990–present
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Lexus ES is a series of mid-size executive cars marketed since 1989 by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, across multiple generations, each offering V6 engines and a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The first five generations of the ES used the Toyota Camry platform, while the latter generations are more closely related to both the Camry and the Avalon. Manual transmissions were offered until 1993, a lower-displacement inline-four engine became an option in Asian markets in 2010, and a gasoline-electric hybrid version was introduced in 2012. The ES was Lexus’s only front-wheel drive vehicle until 1998, when the related RX was introduced, and the sedan occupied the entry-level luxury car segment of the Lexus lineup in North America and other regions until the debut of the IS in 1999. The ES name stands for “Executive Sedan”. However, some Lexus importers use the name, “Elegant Sedan”.
Introduced in 1989, the first generation ES 250 was one of two vehicles in Lexus’s debut range, along with the LS 400. The second generation ES 300 debuted in 1991, followed by the third generation ES 300 in 1996, and the fourth generation ES 300/330 in 2001. The first- through fourth generation sedans shared body styling elements with Japan-market Toyota sedans, and a domestic market equivalent, the Toyota Windom (Japanese: トヨタ・ウィンダム, Toyota Windamu), was sold until the launch of the fifth generation ES in 2006. The word “Windom” is a combination of “win” and the suffix “dom” expresses a state of perpetual victory. The fifth generation ES used body styling marketed by Lexus as L-finesse and debuted in early 2006 as a 2007 model. The sixth generation ES debuted in the first half of 2012 as a 2013 model, and features increased cabin dimensions due to a longer wheelbase which is shared with the full-size XX40 series Avalon.
Lexus has positioned the ES in the comfort luxury segment, with an emphasis on interior amenities, quietness, and ride quality, in contrast with more firm-riding sport sedans. Buyers seeking more performance-focused models are targeted by the Lexus IS and rival makes, with such models offering a sportier drive with differently tuned suspensions. In Europe, Japan and other markets where it was not available until the seventh generation model, the GS sport sedans occupy the mid-size category in the Lexus lineup until it was cancelled August 2020. In the United States, the ES has been the best-selling Lexus sedan for over fifteen years.
Get more information about: Lexus ES
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Lexus Model: ES
Price: $27,503 Mileage: 81,355 mi.
Read more about: From Dream to Disaster: The Unforgettable Rides That Stole Our Hearts, and the Automotive Letdowns That Left Us Stranded
3. **2016 Lexus IS**The 2016 Lexus IS commands attention in the luxury small car class, having secured the top spot from the discerning editors at U.S. News. This compact sedan distinguishes itself through a finely tuned balance of ride comfort and athletic handling, offering a dynamic driving experience without sacrificing the refined qualities expected of a Lexus. U.S. News specifically highlighted that “The IS stands out thanks to its balanced ride, high-end cabin, and wealth of features,” underscoring its comprehensive appeal to those seeking a premium yet engaging driving machine.
Inside its high-end cabin, the 2016 Lexus IS is equipped with an impressive suite of standard features designed for comfort and convenience. Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate the precision of dual-zone climate control, ensuring optimal temperatures for everyone onboard. A 7-inch display serves as the central hub for infotainment, providing easy access to various functions. For connectivity, two USB ports are readily available, allowing for device charging and media playback. Comfort is further enhanced by 8-way power front seats, enabling occupants to find their ideal seating positions with effortless adjustments.
Under the hood, the 2016 Lexus IS offers buyers the flexibility of two distinct engine choices, catering to different driving preferences. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering a capable and efficient performance for everyday driving. For those craving a more invigorating experience, a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine is also available. U.S. News highly recommends the latter option for its ability to provide a noticeably livelier driving experience, transforming each journey into a more spirited and engaging affair, perfect for enthusiasts who desire an extra kick from their compact luxury sedan.
The Lexus IS series has consistently delivered on the brand’s promise of dependability, with many owners reporting fewer mechanical issues over the years. This robust build quality is a key factor in its appeal on the used market, assuring buyers that they are investing in a vehicle designed for longevity. The car’s technology and interior design have also seen significant evolution, meaning that even a 2016 model can offer a relatively modern infotainment system and a cabin that feels contemporary and luxurious. This combination makes the 2016 Lexus IS an outstanding choice for a compact luxury sedan that delivers on all fronts.
Car Model Information: 2014 Lexus IS 250 Base
Name: Lexus IS
Caption: 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport (ASE30, Canada)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Altezza (Japan, 1998–2005)
Production: October 1998 – present
ModelYears: 1999–present
Class: Compact executive car
Predecessor: Lexus GS
Layout: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Lexus IS (Japanese: レクサス・IS, Hepburn: Rekusasu IS) is a compact executive car (D-segment in Europe) sold by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota, since 1998. The IS was originally sold under the Toyota Altezza (Japanese: トヨタ・アルテッツァ, Hepburn: Toyota Arutettsua) nameplate in Japan from 1998 until 2005 (the word Altezza is Italian for ‘height’ or ‘highness’). The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model positioned below the ES in the Lexus lineup. It was the smallest car in the Lexus lineup until the introduction of the CT in 2011.
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 models were powered by a straight-six engine and available in sedan and wagon variants. The second-generation IS (codename XE20) was launched globally in 2005 with V6-powered IS 250 (GSE20) and IS 350 (GSE21) and Diesel-powered IS 200d/220d (ALE20) sedan models, followed by a high-performance V8 sedan version, the IS F, in 2007, and coupé convertible versions, the IS 250 C and IS 350 C, in 2008. The third-generation Lexus IS premiered in January 2013 and includes the V6-powered IS 250 and IS 350, turbocharged IS 200t/300, hybrid IS 300h and performance-tuned F Sport variants. The IS designation stands for “Intelligent Sport”.
Production of the IS will be ended by November 2025, with no direct successor in its place. The IS will also be the third Lexus sedan to cease production, after the Lexus HS and Lexus GS.
Get more information about: Lexus IS
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Lexus Model: IS
Price: $12,999 Mileage: 185,464 mi.
Read more about: From Dream to Disaster: The Unforgettable Rides That Stole Our Hearts, and the Automotive Letdowns That Left Us Stranded
4. **2017 Lexus ES 300h hybrid**The Lexus ES series has been a cornerstone of luxury sedans since 1989, consistently delivering comfort, style, and rock-solid reliability. While the conventional ES350 often gets attention for its affordability, discerning buyers on the used car market are increasingly drawn to the 2017 Lexus ES 300h hybrid. This specific iteration stands out if you prioritize exceptional fuel efficiency and unwavering dependability in your next pre-owned vehicle. It’s a testament to Lexus’s commitment to sustainable luxury without compromising premium features or the signature quiet ride. The ES 300h is an intelligent choice for longevity and reduced running costs.
What truly distinguishes the 2017 ES 300h is its highly sophisticated hybrid powertrain, orchestrating a wonderfully quiet and incredibly smooth performance. Beneath its elegant exterior, you’ll find a harmonious pairing of two electric motors working seamlessly with a refined 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-four engine. This innovative combination isn’t designed to set speed records. Instead, its core brilliance lies in delivering a driving experience that supremely prioritizes impressive efficiency and serene tranquility. Every journey transforms into a remarkably peaceful affair, making this model an absolute dream for daily commutes and long-distance travels.
Beyond its exemplary efficient powertrain, the 2017 ES 300h also makes a deeply compelling case against other hybrid sedans in its class, like the Lincoln MKZ. Owners consistently highlight noticeably better acceleration from the Lexus, a pleasant surprise for a vehicle so focused on economy. More importantly, its interior, a hallmark of the ES nameplate, truly lives up to its reputation for generous spaciousness and exquisite refinement. This isn’t merely a car engineered for efficient transport; it is fundamentally designed to ensure that you and all your passengers are enveloped in ultimate comfort, with ample room to stretch out and enjoy the ride.
When it comes to the ultimate benchmark for evaluating used cars – reliability – the 2017 Lexus ES 300h shines with almost unparalleled brilliance. It proudly carries an exceptional “Rated 96/100 in reliability and quality on JD Power,” a score that speaks volumes about its enduring construction and minimal ownership headaches. This stellar rating positions it impressively “above every other compact premium car in its era,” placing it head and shoulders above notable rivals, including the BMW 4 Series and Audi A4, according to J.D. Power. For any savvy used car buyer, this verified dependability is essentially a golden ticket to trouble-free motoring.
This hybrid variant of the ES truly embodies the financially astute aspect of Lexus ownership, delivering value beyond its initial purchase price. Not only does it consistently promise excellent fuel efficiency, translating directly into being lighter on your wallet at the fuel pump, but its renowned reliability ensures remarkably lower long-term maintenance costs. The ES series’ consistent performance and high rankings in various consumer reports further solidify its position as an exceptionally wise and secure investment. It represents a compelling package that gracefully offers luxury without the exorbitant price tag, proving you can indeed have it all.
Car Model Information: 2020 Hyundai PALISADE Limited
Name: Lexus ES
Caption: Lexus ES 350 (GSZ10)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: June 1989 – present
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
ModelYears: 1990–present
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Lexus ES is a series of mid-size executive cars marketed since 1989 by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, across multiple generations, each offering V6 engines and a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The first five generations of the ES used the Toyota Camry platform, while the latter generations are more closely related to both the Camry and the Avalon. Manual transmissions were offered until 1993, a lower-displacement inline-four engine became an option in Asian markets in 2010, and a gasoline-electric hybrid version was introduced in 2012. The ES was Lexus’s only front-wheel drive vehicle until 1998, when the related RX was introduced, and the sedan occupied the entry-level luxury car segment of the Lexus lineup in North America and other regions until the debut of the IS in 1999. The ES name stands for “Executive Sedan”. However, some Lexus importers use the name, “Elegant Sedan”.
Introduced in 1989, the first generation ES 250 was one of two vehicles in Lexus’s debut range, along with the LS 400. The second generation ES 300 debuted in 1991, followed by the third generation ES 300 in 1996, and the fourth generation ES 300/330 in 2001. The first- through fourth generation sedans shared body styling elements with Japan-market Toyota sedans, and a domestic market equivalent, the Toyota Windom (Japanese: トヨタ・ウィンダム, Toyota Windamu), was sold until the launch of the fifth generation ES in 2006. The word “Windom” is a combination of “win” and the suffix “dom” expresses a state of perpetual victory. The fifth generation ES used body styling marketed by Lexus as L-finesse and debuted in early 2006 as a 2007 model. The sixth generation ES debuted in the first half of 2012 as a 2013 model, and features increased cabin dimensions due to a longer wheelbase which is shared with the full-size XX40 series Avalon.
Lexus has positioned the ES in the comfort luxury segment, with an emphasis on interior amenities, quietness, and ride quality, in contrast with more firm-riding sport sedans. Buyers seeking more performance-focused models are targeted by the Lexus IS and rival makes, with such models offering a sportier drive with differently tuned suspensions. In Europe, Japan and other markets where it was not available until the seventh generation model, the GS sport sedans occupy the mid-size category in the Lexus lineup until it was cancelled August 2020. In the United States, the ES has been the best-selling Lexus sedan for over fifteen years.
Get more information about: Lexus ES
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Lexus Model: ES 300h
Price: $24,987 Mileage: 84,683 mi.
Read more about: Unleashing the Thrill: Discovering the World’s Cheapest RWD V8 Manual Sports Car and Other Budget-Friendly Manual Marvels for Enthusiasts
5. **2024 Lexus IS**Shifting our focus to a more decidedly modern marvel, the 2024 Lexus IS confidently earns its place on our curated list of the most reliable Lexus sedans available on the used market. This particular vehicle represents the very latest evolution of the compact luxury sedan, a lineage that commenced its impressive journey in 1998. Over the years, the IS has undergone thoughtful modifications, always retaining its core identity of delivering high-quality driving performance. For those seeking contemporary styling, cutting-edge features, and unparalleled legendary dependability, even in a pre-owned vehicle, the 2024 IS presents an undeniably intriguing proposition.
The 2024 model year marked a period of truly exciting changes for this dynamic compact luxury vehicle, with Lexus introducing an array of new trims and specialized packages designed to cater to diverse buyer preferences. Enthusiasts of the IS350 were treated to the sleek Blackout package, while the IS300 gained dynamic F Sport Design and F Sport Packages, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and athletic stance. These strategic additions mean that even when diligently searching the used market for a 2024 model, buyers benefit from a wider array of options to choose from, allowing them to pinpoint a vehicle that perfectly aligns with their personal style and driving aspirations.
Performance remains a central hallmark of the distinguished IS series, and the 2024 model spectacularly delivers on this front. The standard IS variant comes meticulously equipped with a solid 241 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, providing a spirited yet commendably efficient drive. However, for those passionate drivers who possess a distinct thirst for exhilarating power, the F Sport model, particularly the IS500, is where the true pinnacle of performance resides. This magnificent beast is powered by a formidable 5.0-liter V-8 engine, unleashing an utterly impressive “472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque.” This extraordinary output stands in stark contrast to “what you might expect in most compact luxury performance cars.”
While the IS500 certainly thrills with its raw power, the IS300, with its more modest yet highly capable turbocharged four-cylinder engine, confidently takes the crown for superior fuel efficiency. This intentional design choice by Lexus highlights an effort to provide options that cater specifically to varying buyer priorities, whether performance or economical daily driving. Ultimately, the decision between these impressive powertrains “boils down to where your preference lies.” Regardless of the chosen engine configuration, Lexus has rigorously maintained its unwavering commitment to crafting “comfortable interiors and luxurious cabins” throughout the 2024 IS lineup.
The IS series, across its iterations, has consistently delivered on Lexus’s profound promise of enduring dependability, with countless owners reporting remarkably fewer mechanical issues over the years. Even as a relatively newer model, the fundamental underlying engineering, robust construction, and meticulous build quality of the 2024 IS are deeply rooted in this formidable legacy of unparalleled reliability. This inherent trustworthiness makes it an outstanding candidate for a used luxury vehicle, offering peace of mind from proven longevity and the allure of modern features and truly dynamic styling. Its remarkable ability to seamlessly balance exhilarating sportiness with understated luxury makes the 2024 IS a standout and highly desirable choice.
Car Model Information: 2014 Lexus IS 250 Base
Name: Lexus IS
Caption: 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport (ASE30, Canada)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Altezza (Japan, 1998–2005)
Production: October 1998 – present
ModelYears: 1999–present
Class: Compact executive car
Predecessor: Lexus GS
Layout: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Lexus IS (Japanese: レクサス・IS, Hepburn: Rekusasu IS) is a compact executive car (D-segment in Europe) sold by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota, since 1998. The IS was originally sold under the Toyota Altezza (Japanese: トヨタ・アルテッツァ, Hepburn: Toyota Arutettsua) nameplate in Japan from 1998 until 2005 (the word Altezza is Italian for ‘height’ or ‘highness’). The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model positioned below the ES in the Lexus lineup. It was the smallest car in the Lexus lineup until the introduction of the CT in 2011.
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 models were powered by a straight-six engine and available in sedan and wagon variants. The second-generation IS (codename XE20) was launched globally in 2005 with V6-powered IS 250 (GSE20) and IS 350 (GSE21) and Diesel-powered IS 200d/220d (ALE20) sedan models, followed by a high-performance V8 sedan version, the IS F, in 2007, and coupé convertible versions, the IS 250 C and IS 350 C, in 2008. The third-generation Lexus IS premiered in January 2013 and includes the V6-powered IS 250 and IS 350, turbocharged IS 200t/300, hybrid IS 300h and performance-tuned F Sport variants. The IS designation stands for “Intelligent Sport”.
Production of the IS will be ended by November 2025, with no direct successor in its place. The IS will also be the third Lexus sedan to cease production, after the Lexus HS and Lexus GS.
Get more information about: Lexus IS
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Lexus Model: IS
Price: $12,999 Mileage: 185,464 mi.
Read more about: From Dream to Disaster: The Unforgettable Rides That Stole Our Hearts, and the Automotive Letdowns That Left Us Stranded
6. **2022 Lexus IS**Rounding out our definitive list of exceptionally reliable Lexus sedans available on the used market is yet another impressive iteration of the revered IS series: the 2022 Lexus IS. This specific model year brings its own distinct set of compelling features and versatile performance options, further cementing the IS’s well-deserved reputation as a top-tier compact luxury vehicle. For astute buyers diligently navigating the pre-owned automotive landscape, the 2022 IS offers a fantastic blend of refined driving dynamics, a sumptuously luxurious cabin, and the unwavering dependability synonymous with the prestigious Lexus brand.
One of the most significant enhancements introduced for the 2022 model year was the strategic addition of an extra, highly anticipated trim: the formidable IS500. This thoughtful expansion meant that buyers now had an even broader and more thrilling spectrum of performance to meticulously choose from, with three distinct and powerful engine options readily available. The range commenced with a robust “241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder,” a potent “311-hp V6,” and for thrill-seekers, a monstrous “472-hp 5.0-liter V8” exclusively featured in the IS500 F Sport Performance version. This V8-powered variant served as “a more powerful alternative to the IS350,” truly elevating the IS’s performance credentials.
To seamlessly accommodate the sheer size and power of the larger V8 engine within the IS500, Lexus thoughtfully implemented distinct design tweaks. You might immediately notice “longer front fenders and a bulging hood,” subtle yet impactful modifications that not only serve a crucial functional purpose but also contribute significantly to a more aggressive, muscular, and overtly sporty aesthetic. While this particular IS500, with its immense power, undoubtedly stands as an exceptional performance vehicle, it will naturally “cost you more than the IS350,” which, in its own right, “also has its own charms” with its beautifully balanced V6 engine.
Beyond its impressive array of powertrain options and distinctively alluring styling, the 2022 Lexus IS consistently delivers an outstanding and thoroughly engaging driving experience. Owners universally praise its “great handling and amazing ride comfort,” a resounding testament to Lexus’s profound engineering prowess in masterfully balancing exhilarating sportiness with uncompromised luxury and everyday usability. The brand also intelligently integrated a selection of “optional cool features like rear cross-traffic alert and panoramic view monitor,” which significantly enhance both active safety and overall convenience for drivers.
However, what genuinely solidifies the 2022 Lexus IS’s prominent place on this coveted list is its undeniable and thoroughly documented reliability – a cornerstone of the Lexus ethos. This model has deservedly earned a stellar reputation, highlighted by its impressive and independently verified metrics. On RepairPal, the widely popular IS350 variant is impressively “ranked 9th out of 31 luxury mid-size cars,” boasting a surprisingly manageable “$543 average annual repair cost.” Furthermore, J.D. Power awarded the 2022 IS an outstanding “89/100 overall rating,” coupled with an even more striking and “very impressive 92/100 score on quality and reliability.”
Car Model Information: 2014 Lexus IS 250 Base
Name: Lexus IS
Caption: 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport (ASE30, Canada)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Altezza (Japan, 1998–2005)
Production: October 1998 – present
ModelYears: 1999–present
Class: Compact executive car
Predecessor: Lexus GS
Layout: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Lexus IS (Japanese: レクサス・IS, Hepburn: Rekusasu IS) is a compact executive car (D-segment in Europe) sold by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota, since 1998. The IS was originally sold under the Toyota Altezza (Japanese: トヨタ・アルテッツァ, Hepburn: Toyota Arutettsua) nameplate in Japan from 1998 until 2005 (the word Altezza is Italian for ‘height’ or ‘highness’). The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model positioned below the ES in the Lexus lineup. It was the smallest car in the Lexus lineup until the introduction of the CT in 2011.
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 models were powered by a straight-six engine and available in sedan and wagon variants. The second-generation IS (codename XE20) was launched globally in 2005 with V6-powered IS 250 (GSE20) and IS 350 (GSE21) and Diesel-powered IS 200d/220d (ALE20) sedan models, followed by a high-performance V8 sedan version, the IS F, in 2007, and coupé convertible versions, the IS 250 C and IS 350 C, in 2008. The third-generation Lexus IS premiered in January 2013 and includes the V6-powered IS 250 and IS 350, turbocharged IS 200t/300, hybrid IS 300h and performance-tuned F Sport variants. The IS designation stands for “Intelligent Sport”.
Production of the IS will be ended by November 2025, with no direct successor in its place. The IS will also be the third Lexus sedan to cease production, after the Lexus HS and Lexus GS.
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Brand: Lexus Model: IS
Price: $12,999 Mileage: 185,464 mi.
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