I understand this isn’t a “sports car”. You wanna drive something fun? Get a 3 series. Wanna look sophisticated? Get a c class. Want something that LOOKS nice and will make it to 200k miles without needing anything other than an oil change and new tires.? Get a IS
Those are all junk specialty the AUDIs if you want something rear wheel Drive with a 6 cylinder that won't break your bank and has decent MPG get the IS 250
I have a 2019 IS350 F-Sport AWD and absolutely love this car. Sounds great, handles great, still looks fresh, very luxurious and well built interior, pretty quick for the streets (0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds) and practical enough to carry everything we can throw at it.
I still think this car looks great. The color combo on this one is perfect in my eyes. However, you can pick up a CPO IS350 F-Sport for about 30K. Better value and overall performance.
I have a 2017 IS200t F-Sport in that same color combo that I bought used last year with 15k miles for only $27,500. Incredible car for the price I paid!
Maybe this car doesnt appeal to everyone but I think it's so comfortable, stylish, and I love how I can count on the vehicle to last. A few upgrades in the tech and i could drive it forever. Makes going to work such a pleasure. Coudnt imagine any other ride.
I own a 2018 IS 300, RWD and I am very happy with it. I am as content with its looks today as the day I bought it in July 2018. I got it for way less than $50k so I think that was a pretty good deal for what I got. I have two minor complaints: 1. The infotainment system is crappy and doesn't have Apple Car Play. The speakers needed upgrade off the lot. 2. *Sometimes* the car has more turbo lag than others and can be frustrating when trying to speed out of trouble. It is extremely comfortable as you mentioned, usually has more than enough spunk and has good passenger and cargo space. The interior is like the one tested - red / black and I think it is pretty classy. The driving position is excellent and steers really accurately with a tight radius. It has enough speed on tap to make you want to use it regularly. There is also the benefit of not being German which means it will keep its value longer. 1 year, 3 months into ownership I feel like it is definitely on the level with my BMW 3-series that I replaced it with. Overall, I would give the car a 8.8/10.
The car has E-CVT and an atkinson cycle engine. They are not neglecting the car, it's just the wrong car to be compaired to the big HP models. The most powerful IS actually build is the IS350, that has a true automatic gearbox and his engine has Auto cycle like every other car. It's significantly faster. BUT Lexus uses port and direct injections, even on the 350, meaning that you have a limitation in how big the horsepower are. But this also insures that your engine will not suffer from carbon buildup, a very costly problem of engines that are direct injected only and, generally, a life limiting factor on a "normal" car.
I have a 2017 IS300 AWD bought used with 47k miles a few months ago ... I love the way it drives, and handles. It has plenty enough power from the NA V6 engine!
I guess it's all perspective regarding "sport" and "fun" because I bought a used 2015 IS250 F Sport for my daughter and when I test drove it I couldn't believe how quick it was and handles awesome. I wanted to keep it for myself. It is plenty quick for the average driver. If you want to go nuts, ok fine, you'll want more, but this is a way better car than most people would think looking only at "racing" stats and I'm saying this having formerly not liked the car years back but it grew on me.
I don’t get the backlash .. it’s an amazing car.. looks better than any of other car in its class.. and will out last any other car in its class... & it’s timeless design..
@Isaac Chavez NICE! Do the 2010 have the revised gauge cluster? its personally the only thing i dont like about the newer models (but wouldnt stop me from buying one!!) i love mine so far. im coming from a 00 honda civic 5 speed so its a worlds diffrence in every way (especially MPG LOL)
Agreed! I had a 2017 IS200t F-Sport for less than two years which was a great fun car, then upgraded to a 2016 GS350 F-Sport a year & a half ago & is much better in every way with a smoother ride, more space & even better handling. It's a darn shame that the GS is no more, but I like that I see very few of them on the road everyday, compared to the IS & ES which I see on every block.
Hopefully, the changes will be for the better. Also, the 2020 refresh of the RX that has Android Auto & Apple CarPlay also has a touch screen. Lexus should have this tech when the refresh is introduced.
Agreed. This vehicle looks nice, goes fast in IS350 F Sport trim and will easily last to 250k miles. Unlike the fragile European competitors, this car will stay out of the shop except for basic maintenance and the European competitors will cost you at least $10k more with the same equipment. If you have time and cash to burn, a German car will fit that bill.
Rumors say that Lexus will redesign the IS for the 2021 model year. The next model year will be larger than the current IS as it will replace the GS as well.
The mis-management of the Lexus brand from a company that's usually so capable is pretty shocking. They literally invented the unibody luxury crossover segment (The ML320 beat them by a year, but the original was body-on-frame). Now look at them. The BMW X3 was launched in 2003. It took Lexus A DECADE to come up with a rival, and it's not that good. Rather than make a proper competitor to the MDX, Q7, GLS, etc, Lexus spent 10 minutes stretching the RX a few inches, and then went to lunch. If you want any more space than that, they expect you to pay an enormous amount of money for a gussied up 4Runner. People like to trash Lincoln for that, but look at the effort that Lincoln has put into the Aviator vs. the Lexus GX. One brand is obviously not even trying, and it's not Lincoln.
David Kay Lexus has been sleeping on there laurels just banking on reliability name. GS badly needs an update, GX, LX will likely get an update once the LC gets a new platform
Lexus was banking too hard on their reliability rep to notice the competition stealing away buyers. There are just so many more exciting offerings out there.
Alan Hua exactly my thoughts for many of us that fondly remember the peak of Lexus in the 2000’s would rather keep there cars rather than upgrade. Even I bought an 07 GS350 still offers same performance as the newer GS’s for thousands less and Lexus wonders why there aren’t selling.
Lexus has deviated from the formula that established itself as a brand. Offer a complete package and undercut the Germans. They still make nice and reliable cars but they're just no longer class competitive. Genesis is the brand that is taking a page from the old Lexus playbook now.
Genesis is still teething as a brand but their warranty is class leading. It will be a few model years before a reliabilty record can be established but the cost of ownership is less than what Lexus or the Germans offer. I tend to push my cars between 8 and 10 years.
Steve, In a mechanical sense, how is it even possible that this 3.5 V6 running on Premium achieves 40 hp less than the Camry's 3.5 V6 running on regular? Why doesn't Lexus offer the AWD Hybrid power train sold overseas? That would at least give this something unique. Having said that, the QDR of Lexus is unmatched by rivals.
Left out telling about the large transmission tunnel (due to it being a rear wheel drive), resulting in a tight footwell for the driver and front passenger. Both short and tall drivers find this car uncomfortably claustrophobic.
I got rid of my 2005 wrx , 2.0 =220 Hp 3.1k pounds 5 speed manual ( obviusly) and got me a 2016 second hand IS 2.0 = 240 HP, 3.4 k pounds and an automatic 8 speed transmission... They are night and day subaru was a lot more fun but needed a lot of attention and maintenance... but once you realize the speed limit at least here in Cali is only 65 on the freeway 40 on the street it makes no sense daily driving a subaru as much as you would like to brag your knowledge and driving skills an IS will always make you feel ten times more comfortable. A brand new IS and and Sti are around the same price but you get better fuel economy with the IS and all the technology that is built in it is a better bargain for you dollar . I mean cooled and heated electric powered leather seats , premium sound system, Blind spot monitor, proximity sensors , remote start , compaassed auto dimming rear mirror , paddle shifters I wonder if Lexus would have thrown a stick shift on this thing 🤔 . I love my cargo net for pegasus’ sake ... more refined and better looking that any subaru an I S has the curves and although you will never win a race with it ... I love it While on the freeway at 65 mph , the engine is right below 2k rpm so I get 33 MPG 😍 and 26 combined . I was lucky to get 300 miles out of a subaru’s tank of gas . I know is not fair to compair it to a 2005 subaru but Subaru’s haven’t changed much ... they still give you bits and pieces of what’s new but come on 40, 000 ? And then you are served a bucket of plastic ! Just for the sake of shifting your own gears in an AWD . The few people that have gotten a rid in my Lexus are pleased and love the ride ! Never got those compliments in my Subaru specially because people want to feel safe when someone else is driving . Only a kid wants to drive like a maniac hoping not to get caught by the police . 😉😘
All car reviews mentions horsepower we alreay know, but never tell us where to use these hp's. Did anyone went to a race track with it ? Get stuck in traffic either driving ferrari or ford focus. Period
It still a fun car to drive, but really you can't enjoy the chassis unless you splurge for the IS 350 F-sport which is priced incredibly dear. I'm holding my money for the MY2021 4IS in the meantime.
The seats are very comfortable to me - the head rest doesn't tilt so far forward like other modern cars (even compared to new Camry, which I cross-shopped)
They are very focused on reliability and this is the best option if you want a Luxury car that will actually run in 10 years pretty much problem free. It is def due for a redesign.
@@joelrepass2379 true but if they dont offer anything new, it gives current owners no reason to trade in their current vehicles. Also last I hear Toyota sales isn't going according to plan. They are dropping but not in the negative. I think they are a bit worried about that. Most of my family, who were once hardcore Toyota fans, have went to other brands. Reliability is great to have but can only go so far when it comes to sales.
@@mrjjthor You REALLY don't get it do you? Lexus sells cars based on brand loyalty. They build cars to last a lifetime which means they get return business from the same customers over and over due to the great experience and a reliable product. It's much easier to keep a current customer base than hunt for new ones. Every marketing firm knows this. The Germans on the other hand, purposely build and engineer obsolescence into their cars that break in 5-8 years to purposely get you back into a new vehicle. That is really bad business if you ask me. This is why German cars depreciate faster than the Titanic sank. Nobody wants to deal with a German car or buy one that's a few years old due to their undeniable poor reliability. However, everyone wants to buy a used Lexus because they are indestructible. Market prices for used Lexus vehicles proves this.
@@sdlausen1 I understand that Toyota rarely change their drivetrain for reliability purposes. However the loyalists who are buying them really have no reason to give up on their current rides. Toyota sales are falling right now and I'd say it has a lot to due with their less than interesting rides. I've owned several toyota products and have walked away unimpressed. I mean they can have a nice balance between reliability and being innovated but they just slap the same drivetrain year after year. If that's your cup of tea then that's great. But I'm not Scotty Kilmer so I prefer something more interesting even if it means sacrificing a bit of reliability.
For the price it's hard to beat. I got my 2019 new for 38k OTD here in soCal. Any german competitive is at least 10k or more. Yeah it's a bummer I don't get apple carplay, and I'm stuck with that 7" screen since i didn't want navigation, but to me the car looks amazing inside and out. And of course it's not super fast like the german cars, but I'm stuck in traffic going to work most of the time anyway, don't really go that fast.
Ugh. I really used to like the is. Back in the day when the was a 3.5 v6. But Lexus just didn't keep up with the competition. It's too bad because I would've picked them over a ton of competition but now they're almost at the bottom of the list.
I love the GX line and own a 470. Literally, one of the most reliable and capable mid-size SUV lines ever made. Looking at the 2019 IS for the lady (auto park lol) if prices dip. Great review other than the gx comment. 😜
I ended up replacing my 2017 IS200t F-Sport last year with a 2016 GS350 F-Sport with 41k miles for $28k which was half the price of a new one. I like the GS better overall which has a lot more room as well as a lot more luxury features, & the V6 is a much better engine than the turbo 4. I sometimes miss my IS, but had to get rid of it cause I needed more room & for a few other reasons.
I own a Lexus LS430 and GX470. Once upon a time a brand producing legendary vehicles is now confused and struggling with adjustment disorders. They claim to make sporty cars that don’t live up to expectations, and they have killed their most sporty car, the Lexus GS. Then you have the ancient LX and GX that haven’t been properly upgraded in over a decade. Sad.
A F A Everything after the ISF got slower or just not legendary. I have a 2007 IS350 and like the design of the newer ones, but the tech is lacking and it’s the same engine with less performance due to it being a heavier car
Marty Motoring exactly my thoughts its hard to justify buying the new IS and GS when the previous generations were just as fast for way less $. The RC-F and GS-F is way overpriced for what there charging.
Crazy that Lexus down played the IS...300 hp is a must from that 3.5 .. why would someone get this v6 if it’s underpowered compared to the turbo 4.. crazy.. good review steve
Yeah I was going to say the second gen, 2007-2012...3.5 L GS (and maybe IS too) was getting over 300 hp. And a new 3.5 getting 260? That’s a major step back and a failure in my book
Drove one at a Lexus driving event and it was so disappointing. I drove the GS F and RC F at the same event too, and surprisingly, the GS F handled better than the RC F to me. Both have a V8 that sounds amazing though.
This is why they are bot worth 40k. Starting should be 32k. The fully upgraded GS is about 93k....... WTF?!!! When will these over priced manufacturing companies stop with the bullshit?! In the next 5 years the IS will start at 55k. Putting the GS at?? Over 100k? (if they are still being made). It makes zero sense as to why these cars are being priced so high. People say its the looks as to why they stopped selling? But its the price. Put this same is and the gs at a normal realistic price and watch them fly off the shelves. We all love Lexus, but within the past 10 years they bumped the prices up in a ridiculous way. Thats why they dont sell. Now look at the ES, it looks like a mini LS but with a realistic price. The price, looks and Quality all match. They need to do that with all their cars. Lexus would be on top if they did.
I’d never consider this crap over anything with AWD. I’d rather buy a Camry or Even a Civic fully load and still have change leftovers to start a business
Every time I see a IS in this color I think of the Suzuki Kizashi (don't believe me? Just type it into search here on YT) and wonder where they could have taken that car if it had a company like Honda or even Mazda behind it. Of course it was never intended to compete with luxury nameplates, but if you were around back in 09-10 when it came out and looked into the engineering put into this car, it was definitely inspired by the 2nd gen IS, and then it seems Lexus themselves took a cue from the Kizashi when they did the 2014 redesign. By all accounts the Zizashi was a great little car, built like a tank with a good 6 speed manual and better than expected luxury features in the interior. Anyway, it had more in common with the IS than just looks, the platform was over-engineered to be a great handling compact sports sedan with owners raving about how solid it felt...like driving a little bank vault. Also like the IS the Kizashi was a bit underpowered vs the competition, gas mileage wasnt a strong suit, but it did have a nice optional sound system (Rockford Fosgate iirc) premium feeling leather interior and some good safety tech for the time period. Sadly we never got to see what they could do with this plaform as slow sales meant it only lasted 3 model years before Suzuki left North America. All that aside, I fear if Lexus takes the IS to Toyota's TNGA platform it will lose some of what makes it special in favor of being "up to date". Since most if not all the direct competitors have gone to strut front suspension, I can see the next IS losing its double wishbone as well as some forged aluminum suspension pieces in favor of cost cutting where most customers will never see.
That's not what he said... "Last redesigned for the 2014 model year it remains the cheapest way to get into a new Lexus sedan with a starting price of around $40,000."
Wait wtf I’m confused someone fill me in. . Does this dude have his specs wrong . Where in tf is the 306hp v6?wtf is Lexus doing ? What does he mean it’s not a sports sedan anymore ? I’m sorry I’m lost af
teban jose ok excuse me for being late snd lost so let me get this straight, theres no 306hp 3.5L V6 powertrain for 2019? It’s the same v6 just detuned . What’s the difference berteen a 19 IS 350 and IS300? Or there different trim levels ?
I’m hearing the GS is supposedly out but hasn’t been confined by Toyota’s Lexus USA? Now they detuned the is which is already a tiny heavy hog, TF is Lexus doing 🤬💀
@@The3358151l 19 IS350 RWD 3.5 V6 8spd Transmission 306HP. 19 IS300 AWD 6spd transmission 260 HP V6 same as 350 but detuned. 19 IS300 RWD 2.0 Turbo 247 HP use to be called the 200T
In the video you specifically stated the 3.5 v6 is under powered and you gave the 4 cylinder tubo's numbers when stating that is more less lack luster....that was wrong
Guys Steve is right based on 2019 IS300 with a 3.5L engine, for some reason the model name didn’t match the engine size that year? And yeah it only made 260 which is ridiculous cause the earlier models and even the 2020 seem to have over 300 hp out of the 3.5. Something strange is going on there
I understand this isn’t a “sports car”. You wanna drive something fun? Get a 3 series. Wanna look sophisticated? Get a c class. Want something that LOOKS nice and will make it to 200k miles without needing anything other than an oil change and new tires.? Get a IS
Efrain G get aN* ... IS
#GrammarMatters
@@nextleveljourney6612 stfu
So true ! Honestly the C class isn’t that nice
My C300 has been problematic since the second year ownership.
Those are all junk specialty the AUDIs if you want something rear wheel Drive with a 6 cylinder that won't break your bank and has decent MPG get the IS 250
I have a 2019 IS350 F-Sport AWD and absolutely love this car. Sounds great, handles great, still looks fresh, very luxurious and well built interior, pretty quick for the streets (0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds) and practical enough to carry everything we can throw at it.
I still think this car looks great. The color combo on this one is perfect in my eyes. However, you can pick up a CPO IS350 F-Sport for about 30K. Better value and overall performance.
I have a 2017 IS200t F-Sport in that same color combo that I bought used last year with 15k miles for only $27,500. Incredible car for the price I paid!
Maybe this car doesnt appeal to everyone but I think it's so comfortable, stylish, and I love how I can count on the vehicle to last.
A few upgrades in the tech and i could drive it forever. Makes going to work such a pleasure. Coudnt imagine any other ride.
I agree Ryan, very comfortable and Lexus has the most reliable vehicles year in and year out. Regardless the model.
I like it a lot but don't want or need awd. Maybe I can find a deal on a leftover 2019 rwd IS with that silky 3.5L V6.
Im sure there is deals to be had before the new model arrives :D
It’s 70 RWD 30 FWD most of the time though
@@nextleveljourney6612 Still cool they offer AWD in the US. Its RWD only in UK
I own a 2018 IS 300, RWD and I am very happy with it. I am as content with its looks today as the day I bought it in July 2018. I got it for way less than $50k so I think that was a pretty good deal for what I got.
I have two minor complaints:
1. The infotainment system is crappy and doesn't have Apple Car Play. The speakers needed upgrade off the lot.
2. *Sometimes* the car has more turbo lag than others and can be frustrating when trying to speed out of trouble.
It is extremely comfortable as you mentioned, usually has more than enough spunk and has good passenger and cargo space. The interior is like the one tested - red / black and I think it is pretty classy. The driving position is excellent and steers really accurately with a tight radius. It has enough speed on tap to make you want to use it regularly. There is also the benefit of not being German which means it will keep its value longer.
1 year, 3 months into ownership I feel like it is definitely on the level with my BMW 3-series that I replaced it with. Overall, I would give the car a 8.8/10.
This is an old comment, but what 3 series did you have? I’m considering jumping to this from my e90 3 series. I’m happy to hear you liked it!
@@sydneyr0s3 - I had a 2015 BMW 328i.
@@TekTrekgamer thanks for replying! I also have a 328, but an 09.
Shame on Lexus for neglecting the IS.
anasim i agree !!!!
The car has E-CVT and an atkinson cycle engine. They are not neglecting the car, it's just the wrong car to be compaired to the big HP models.
The most powerful IS actually build is the IS350, that has a true automatic gearbox and his engine has Auto cycle like every other car. It's significantly faster.
BUT
Lexus uses port and direct injections, even on the 350, meaning that you have a limitation in how big the horsepower are. But this also insures that your engine will not suffer from carbon buildup, a very costly problem of engines that are direct injected only and, generally, a life limiting factor on a "normal" car.
I have a 2017 IS300 AWD bought used with 47k miles a few months ago ... I love the way it drives, and handles. It has plenty enough power from the NA V6 engine!
How reliable has she been, looking to get my wife this car but I don’t want a problem child
@@Rylan_808 it’s a Toyota at the end of the day! Now, with 56k miles only yearly oil changes so far.
I guess it's all perspective regarding "sport" and "fun" because I bought a used 2015 IS250 F Sport for my daughter and when I test drove it I couldn't believe how quick it was and handles awesome. I wanted to keep it for myself. It is plenty quick for the average driver. If you want to go nuts, ok fine, you'll want more, but this is a way better car than most people would think looking only at "racing" stats and I'm saying this having formerly not liked the car years back but it grew on me.
I don’t get the backlash .. it’s an amazing car.. looks better than any of other car in its class.. and will out last any other car in its class... & it’s timeless design..
Man Lexus did not make a ISF model for this generation. Missed opportunity
i just bought myself a 08 ISF. it is such a shame they didn't make one for this generation.
@Isaac Chavez NICE! Do the 2010 have the revised gauge cluster? its personally the only thing i dont like about the newer models (but wouldnt stop me from buying one!!) i love mine so far. im coming from a 00 honda civic 5 speed so its a worlds diffrence in every way (especially MPG LOL)
Isaac Chavez it should have the new gauges. Do you even have an ISF
I cant believe lexus will stop producing the GS, imo the GS is their best sedan
Agreed! I had a 2017 IS200t F-Sport for less than two years which was a great fun car, then upgraded to a 2016 GS350 F-Sport a year & a half ago & is much better in every way with a smoother ride, more space & even better handling. It's a darn shame that the GS is no more, but I like that I see very few of them on the road everyday, compared to the IS & ES which I see on every block.
he is so honest i fuckin love it
Best car in it's class!!! Id drive this better than a C-class or a BMW - 3. It is also made in Japan not Mexico or a third world country.
Hopefully, the changes will be for the better. Also, the 2020 refresh of the RX that has Android Auto & Apple CarPlay also has a touch screen. Lexus should have this tech when the refresh is introduced.
Agreed. This vehicle looks nice, goes fast in IS350 F Sport trim and will easily last to 250k miles. Unlike the fragile European competitors, this car will stay out of the shop except for basic maintenance and the European competitors will cost you at least $10k more with the same equipment. If you have time and cash to burn, a German car will fit that bill.
Biggest problem with Lexus that it ages the driver 10 years the minute you get behind the wheel of a Lexus.
The 350 is the only way to go if you get an IS. Everything else is severely underpowered
Lukas IS-F ?
@@ripdiptatterchip3851 not available in this model
@@tygervoods8358 Well now it technically is for 2022 as the IS500 F-Sport Performance.
Rumors say that Lexus will redesign the IS for the 2021 model year. The next model year will be larger than the current IS as it will replace the GS as well.
Tell me you hate Lexus without telling me you hate Lexus.
First 30 seconds of this video. At least you're not hiding your bias.
Don’t say anything but I got paid off by a competitor. On the QT, please. I think only you can see this comment.
I’m 20 years old I got a is 300 2017 I’m proud to have it it’s quite the looker
Lexus IS is damn good
The mis-management of the Lexus brand from a company that's usually so capable is pretty shocking. They literally invented the unibody luxury crossover segment (The ML320 beat them by a year, but the original was body-on-frame). Now look at them. The BMW X3 was launched in 2003. It took Lexus A DECADE to come up with a rival, and it's not that good. Rather than make a proper competitor to the MDX, Q7, GLS, etc, Lexus spent 10 minutes stretching the RX a few inches, and then went to lunch. If you want any more space than that, they expect you to pay an enormous amount of money for a gussied up 4Runner. People like to trash Lincoln for that, but look at the effort that Lincoln has put into the Aviator vs. the Lexus GX. One brand is obviously not even trying, and it's not Lincoln.
David Kay Lexus has been sleeping on there laurels just banking on reliability name. GS badly needs an update, GX, LX will likely get an update once the LC gets a new platform
Is series needs some love in the engine department ❤️❤️
That's a good way to put it!
The IS is Old School!
More information on what is in the future: The 2022 Lexus IS
Lexus was banking too hard on their reliability rep to notice the competition stealing away buyers. There are just so many more exciting offerings out there.
I have similar sentiments about Toyota as a whole. At least the new Corolla hatch shows a little bit of effort...
Alan Hua exactly my thoughts for many of us that fondly remember the peak of Lexus in the 2000’s would rather keep there cars rather than upgrade. Even I bought an 07 GS350 still offers same performance as the newer GS’s for thousands less and Lexus wonders why there aren’t selling.
Lexus has deviated from the formula that established itself as a brand. Offer a complete package and undercut the Germans. They still make nice and reliable cars but they're just no longer class competitive. Genesis is the brand that is taking a page from the old Lexus playbook now.
Or buy what! I hope not them germans
Genesis is still teething as a brand but their warranty is class leading. It will be a few model years before a reliabilty record can be established but the cost of ownership is less than what Lexus or the Germans offer. I tend to push my cars between 8 and 10 years.
I’m loving your verbiage. I’m liking the motor week vibe
I appreciate that
the next is needs to be released now!... actually yesterday or last yr lol
It’s a Lexus , and 260HP isn’t exactly slow , it had a comfy ride and good in snow
Steve, In a mechanical sense, how is it even possible that this 3.5 V6 running on Premium achieves 40 hp less than the Camry's 3.5 V6 running on regular? Why doesn't Lexus offer the AWD Hybrid power train sold overseas? That would at least give this something unique. Having said that, the QDR of Lexus is unmatched by rivals.
Left out telling about the large transmission tunnel (due to it being a rear wheel drive), resulting in a tight footwell for the driver and front passenger. Both short and tall drivers find this car uncomfortably claustrophobic.
I'm 6'1 250 and I fit great
I must admit at 5 11 it feels snug and where you rest your left leg if not stretched out its hard plastic which is uncomfortable.
You have no idea what you’re talking about buddy
I got rid of my 2005 wrx , 2.0 =220 Hp 3.1k pounds 5 speed manual ( obviusly) and got me a 2016 second hand IS 2.0 = 240 HP, 3.4 k pounds and an automatic 8 speed transmission...
They are night and day subaru was a lot more fun but needed a lot of attention and maintenance... but once you realize the speed limit at least here in Cali is only 65 on the freeway 40 on the street it makes no sense daily driving a subaru as much as you would like to brag your knowledge and driving skills an IS will always make you feel ten times more comfortable.
A brand new IS and and Sti are around the same price but you get better fuel economy with the IS and all the technology that is built in it is a better bargain for you dollar .
I mean cooled and heated electric powered leather seats , premium sound system, Blind spot monitor, proximity sensors , remote start , compaassed auto dimming rear mirror , paddle shifters
I wonder if Lexus would have thrown a stick shift on this thing 🤔 .
I love my cargo net for pegasus’ sake ... more refined and better looking that any subaru an I S has the curves and although you will never win a race with it ... I love it
While on the freeway at 65 mph , the engine is right below 2k rpm so I get 33 MPG 😍 and 26 combined .
I was lucky to get 300 miles out of a subaru’s tank of gas .
I know is not fair to compair it to a 2005 subaru but Subaru’s haven’t changed much ... they still give you bits and pieces of what’s new but come on 40, 000 ?
And then you are served a bucket of plastic ! Just for the sake of shifting your own gears in an AWD .
The few people that have gotten a rid in my Lexus are pleased and love the ride !
Never got those compliments in my Subaru specially because people want to feel safe when someone else is driving . Only a kid wants to drive like a maniac hoping not to get caught by the police .
😉😘
All car reviews mentions horsepower we alreay know, but never tell us where to use these hp's. Did anyone went to a race track with it ? Get stuck in traffic either driving ferrari or ford focus. Period
Don’t let this man fool you. Look how he drives on the curve. I bend my Is respectfully
It still a fun car to drive, but really you can't enjoy the chassis unless you splurge for the IS 350 F-sport which is priced incredibly dear.
I'm holding my money for the MY2021 4IS in the meantime.
The seats are very comfortable to me - the head rest doesn't tilt so far forward like other modern cars (even compared to new Camry, which I cross-shopped)
Please don’t use “cheapest” and Lexus in the same sentence
Ha! That's fair.
Toyota and their ancient tech and drivetrain. Hopefully the next gen IS will do better.
They are very focused on reliability and this is the best option if you want a Luxury car that will actually run in 10 years pretty much problem free. It is def due for a redesign.
@@joelrepass2379 true but if they dont offer anything new, it gives current owners no reason to trade in their current vehicles. Also last I hear Toyota sales isn't going according to plan. They are dropping but not in the negative. I think they are a bit worried about that. Most of my family, who were once hardcore Toyota fans, have went to other brands. Reliability is great to have but can only go so far when it comes to sales.
Thx! One less person to buy one keep my resale value up.
@@mrjjthor You REALLY don't get it do you? Lexus sells cars based on brand loyalty. They build cars to last a lifetime which means they get return business from the same customers over and over due to the great experience and a reliable product. It's much easier to keep a current customer base than hunt for new ones. Every marketing firm knows this. The Germans on the other hand, purposely build and engineer obsolescence into their cars that break in 5-8 years to purposely get you back into a new vehicle. That is really bad business if you ask me. This is why German cars depreciate faster than the Titanic sank. Nobody wants to deal with a German car or buy one that's a few years old due to their undeniable poor reliability. However, everyone wants to buy a used Lexus because they are indestructible. Market prices for used Lexus vehicles proves this.
@@sdlausen1 I understand that Toyota rarely change their drivetrain for reliability purposes. However the loyalists who are buying them really have no reason to give up on their current rides. Toyota sales are falling right now and I'd say it has a lot to due with their less than interesting rides. I've owned several toyota products and have walked away unimpressed. I mean they can have a nice balance between reliability and being innovated but they just slap the same drivetrain year after year. If that's your cup of tea then that's great. But I'm not Scotty Kilmer so I prefer something more interesting even if it means sacrificing a bit of reliability.
Lexus should have fitted the 8 speed on AWD models
For the price it's hard to beat. I got my 2019 new for 38k OTD here in soCal. Any german competitive is at least 10k or more. Yeah it's a bummer I don't get apple carplay, and I'm stuck with that 7" screen since i didn't want navigation, but to me the car looks amazing inside and out. And of course it's not super fast like the german cars, but I'm stuck in traffic going to work most of the time anyway, don't really go that fast.
Does it handle well? Is it nimble to drive? Is it comfortable? Economical? Reliable? Then that's all you need. "Performance" is not a requirement.
Performance is a requirement when buying a "sports" sedan.
Thx! Cause everyone I see drive germans car driver them slow ass hell in Atlanta. Which please drive that car or get out way of slow Lexus is 250
I don’t understand why they have to design the front light like that.
I think the 2nd gen IS are the best looking.
Lol I haha the rear tailight design. This car needs a new redesign.
Ugh. I really used to like the is. Back in the day when the was a 3.5 v6. But Lexus just didn't keep up with the competition. It's too bad because I would've picked them over a ton of competition but now they're almost at the bottom of the list.
There still is a 3.5 V6, it's called the IS350.
This car has the 3.5 too. It’s just detuned
i might buy one can anyone tell me the goods and bads of the car and how fun is it to drive?
The IS is one of the oldest cars in their lineup.
Lexus LX “Am I a joke to you?”
You clearly don't understand the meaning of "one of".
TJC450
''One of''
I love the GX line and own a 470. Literally, one of the most reliable and capable mid-size SUV lines ever made. Looking at the 2019 IS for the lady (auto park lol) if prices dip. Great review other than the gx comment. 😜
I can't see Lexus selling too many of these now, there's just too much better competition. Still no carplay/auto either. Jeez.
I have the GS, IS is way too small for me even though it looks good outside. All GS, IS are overpriced. Many rather buy CPO or used instead.
I have a IS, but may want to step up to a GS.
I ended up replacing my 2017 IS200t F-Sport last year with a 2016 GS350 F-Sport with 41k miles for $28k which was half the price of a new one. I like the GS better overall which has a lot more room as well as a lot more luxury features, & the V6 is a much better engine than the turbo 4. I sometimes miss my IS, but had to get rid of it cause I needed more room & for a few other reasons.
@@DisneyMusicVideos Also, I like the extra room and power in the GS. Too bad Lexus discontinued it.
I hear you bro. This is one Tokyodian that wants to be Wasabi but comes off as Teriyaki
I own a Lexus LS430 and GX470. Once upon a time a brand producing legendary vehicles is now confused and struggling with adjustment disorders. They claim to make sporty cars that don’t live up to expectations, and they have killed their most sporty car, the Lexus GS. Then you have the ancient LX and GX that haven’t been properly upgraded in over a decade. Sad.
A F A Everything after the ISF got slower or just not legendary. I have a 2007 IS350 and like the design of the newer ones, but the tech is lacking and it’s the same engine with less performance due to it being a heavier car
Marty Motoring exactly my thoughts its hard to justify buying the new IS and GS when the previous generations were just as fast for way less $. The RC-F and GS-F is way overpriced for what there charging.
I still want one!
BUT remember BMW can't come 1% close to Lexus when it comes to reliability .. so compare looks and Reliability resale value is excellent on a lexus ..
Agreed. Nobody comes close to the QDR of Lexus.
But Toyota Supra uses a BMW engine 🤪
@@aquaboy1650 theres were even the rumors that it's probably going to share the B58 and whatever mazdas i6 is goimg to be named in the next gen IS
Crazy that Lexus down played the IS...300 hp is a must from that 3.5 .. why would someone get this v6 if it’s underpowered compared to the turbo 4.. crazy.. good review steve
Yeah I was going to say the second gen, 2007-2012...3.5 L GS (and maybe IS too) was getting over 300 hp. And a new 3.5 getting 260? That’s a major step back and a failure in my book
Omid I agree
It looks dated compared to competitors This wouldn't help as car sales slides two digits last September
Great review, Thanks!
Drove one at a Lexus driving event and it was so disappointing.
I drove the GS F and RC F at the same event too, and surprisingly, the GS F handled better than the RC F to me. Both have a V8 that sounds amazing though.
it identify as camry alternative not everyone go for camry or mark x
This is why they are bot worth 40k. Starting should be 32k. The fully upgraded GS is about 93k....... WTF?!!! When will these over priced manufacturing companies stop with the bullshit?! In the next 5 years the IS will start at 55k. Putting the GS at?? Over 100k? (if they are still being made). It makes zero sense as to why these cars are being priced so high. People say its the looks as to why they stopped selling? But its the price. Put this same is and the gs at a normal realistic price and watch them fly off the shelves. We all love Lexus, but within the past 10 years they bumped the prices up in a ridiculous way. Thats why they dont sell. Now look at the ES, it looks like a mini LS but with a realistic price. The price, looks and Quality all match. They need to do that with all their cars. Lexus would be on top if they did.
I’d never consider this crap over anything with AWD. I’d rather buy a Camry or Even a Civic fully load and still have change leftovers to start a business
And if you do that youd be buying exactly what you bought: a Civic or a Camry instead of a Lexus.
Entry level - still BACK in the day car.
Yes and a BMW will put a hole in your pocket when it comes to maintenance
Every time I see a IS in this color I think of the Suzuki Kizashi (don't believe me? Just type it into search here on YT) and wonder where they could have taken that car if it had a company like Honda or even Mazda behind it. Of course it was never intended to compete with luxury nameplates, but if you were around back in 09-10 when it came out and looked into the engineering put into this car, it was definitely inspired by the 2nd gen IS, and then it seems Lexus themselves took a cue from the Kizashi when they did the 2014 redesign. By all accounts the Zizashi was a great little car, built like a tank with a good 6 speed manual and better than expected luxury features in the interior. Anyway, it had more in common with the IS than just looks, the platform was over-engineered to be a great handling compact sports sedan with owners raving about how solid it felt...like driving a little bank vault. Also like the IS the Kizashi was a bit underpowered vs the competition, gas mileage wasnt a strong suit, but it did have a nice optional sound system (Rockford Fosgate iirc) premium feeling leather interior and some good safety tech for the time period. Sadly we never got to see what they could do with this plaform as slow sales meant it only lasted 3 model years before Suzuki left North America. All that aside, I fear if Lexus takes the IS to Toyota's TNGA platform it will lose some of what makes it special in favor of being "up to date". Since most if not all the direct competitors have gone to strut front suspension, I can see the next IS losing its double wishbone as well as some forged aluminum suspension pieces in favor of cost cutting where most customers will never see.
He prob thinks the Nx is a great car!😂
Da Sears Fam th-cam.com/video/HpGD71_FSJ0/w-d-xo.html
The UX is the 'cheapest' way to get into the Lexus brand.
David Jordi Coronel This is the cheapest sedan.
@@CapELarry, yes, but that's not what he said. He said that the IS was the cheapest way to get into the Lexus brand and that's not accurate.
That's not what he said... "Last redesigned for the 2014 model year it remains the cheapest way to get into a new Lexus sedan with a starting price of around $40,000."
@@stevehammes pardon me, sir.
I’d rather buy the new Camry fully loaded v6
This has essentially been replaced by the Genesis G70
@Jimi And yet Genesis destroys Lexus based on JD Power reliability rankings lol. Get back to the 90s you fucking badge baby.
Giving a thumbs up because New Jersey
Wait wtf I’m confused someone fill me in. . Does this dude have his specs wrong . Where in tf is the 306hp v6?wtf is Lexus doing ? What does he mean it’s not a sports sedan anymore ? I’m sorry I’m lost af
The IS300 AWD is the same V6 engine in the 350 but it was detuned
teban jose ok excuse me for being late snd lost so let me get this straight, theres no 306hp 3.5L V6 powertrain for 2019? It’s the same v6 just detuned . What’s the difference berteen a 19 IS 350 and IS300? Or there different trim levels ?
I’m hearing the GS is supposedly out but hasn’t been confined by Toyota’s Lexus USA? Now they detuned the is which is already a tiny heavy hog, TF is Lexus doing 🤬💀
@@The3358151l 19 IS350 RWD 3.5 V6 8spd Transmission 306HP. 19 IS300 AWD 6spd transmission 260 HP V6 same as 350 but detuned. 19 IS300 RWD 2.0 Turbo 247 HP use to be called the 200T
teban jose thank you
Hey buddy the IS350 is 300hp 276 torque....this is just embarrassing you dont know the numbers
Check yourself and think about this and I’ll get back to you in a few minutes to see if you’ve changed your mind. I’m giving you a pass here.
@@stevehammes quick google search "www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ACYBGNTB_GMdv0TUcex5ahtufdE3XIaeIw:1571149683334&q=2020+lexus+is+350&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgFuLVT9c3NEzLyygyN89IUYJx84riK-OTtBSyk630E0tL8nPzSzLLUvVz81NSc-IrUxOLrJJKM3NSihexChoZGBko5KRWlBYrZBYrGJsaAABeiG3qVgAAAA&sa=X&sqi=2&pjf=1&ved=2ahUKEwjUzYzWvJ7lAhUBL6wKHbWMBs0Qri4wAnoECAsQDA&sxsrf=ACYBGNTB_GMdv0TUcex5ahtufdE3XIaeIw:1571149683334&biw=412&bih=718"
2019 and 2020 Lexus IS350 311 hp,
Dude!! I didn't review the IS350!!? What don't you understand here?
In the video you specifically stated the 3.5 v6 is under powered and you gave the 4 cylinder tubo's numbers when stating that is more less lack luster....that was wrong
Guys Steve is right based on 2019 IS300 with a 3.5L engine, for some reason the model name didn’t match the engine size that year? And yeah it only made 260 which is ridiculous cause the earlier models and even the 2020 seem to have over 300 hp out of the 3.5. Something strange is going on there
Lexus is for reliability and comfort, not for performance like BMW
Ill the g70
$50,000??? I can use that money to buy a used Porsche 911 or Panamera.....no wonder Lexus is a dying brand.....
That's quite possibly one of the ugliest vehicles on the road. The headlights and grill are especially repulsive.
IS and GX need to go away. Lexus should also differentiate LX body design from Land Cruiser.
Tangchi Prathomo GX is virtually a LC Prado and doesn’t really hurt them at all by keeping them. IS needs a powertrain update.
Typical Toyota, always resting on their laurels and getting passed up by the competition.
The BMW is junk and you should not compare the two.
the IS got worse after 2014 , especially the is350 .
IS is chick car
Jesus, this is such a depressing car.