LEXUS IS 2017 FULL REVIEW - CAR & DRIVING

Here's an interesting car, the Lexus IS. For many potential buyers, its main appeal lies not in what it is but in what it isn't. Namely a BMW, an Audi or a Mercedes, these being the three Teutonic heavyweight brands who dominate the compact executive saloon sector in which this Japanese contender competes. As a result, our company carparks are overflowing with 3 Series, A4 and C-Class models, with the cars in question nearly all powered by clattery diesel engines and mainly driven via the kind of over-firm sporty set-ups that the magazines insist buyers should have. If though, you're fed with these predictable choices and want something that reinterprets what a car of this kind should be, then this, I'd suggest, is where you need to start your search.
Almost everything about this IS is different from the norm in its chosen segment. The styling, the single saloon bodystyle, absence of manual transmission and, perhaps most notably, the fact that no, you can't have a diesel. Here instead, you get a unique four-door look, an auto gearbox and an overwhelming emphasis on petrol/electric hybrid power with its sensible running costs and limo-like silent start-up. The result should be a car to change your mind: about hybrid power, German brand domination - and Lexus itself. Let's try it.

[@sizif717]

It's a hell of a useful info for that model. And some subjective, but rather unbiased assessment about the comfort and driving ( very close to my experience by the way). Respect!

[@radulicah]

The eCVT is not belt driven, it's a set of planetary gears.

[@kestasseeker-vx6wx]

Think again

[@antistiolabeo8950]

@@kestasseeker-vx6wx About what? He's completely right and that statement from the reviewer was quite embarrassing to be honest. No belt is used in modern Toyota and Lexus eCVT gearboxes (which makes them virtually indestructible btw). If people would check their sources before spreading false claims in public we all would live in a better world.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

@@kestasseeker-vx6wxhe doesn’t have to. Lexus use a planetary gear cvt, electronically monitored and controlled to work with electric motor/generator. There is no cvt belt.

[@eugenijussanda4958]

Got one 1 week ago. Premier trim. 14 plate 60k. Immaculate except few body marks. Lovely to drive, very comfy cockpit and sitting position. Soacs up London roads effortlessly. Yet to try motorways. On paper it's heavy car in real world does not feel like it. In fact felt like compact sedan with most luxury you ever want. What about acceleration? You say. I bought it for for comfort and reliability, otherwise I would be reviewing a manual diesel.

[@michalholwek8832]

I just bought 2016 300h...

[@mattrooke3210]

Love my 2017 IS300h, does what it says on the tin and no more, and no more is expected. My Mercedes SL500 does that bit.

[@Classically.Inclined]

Very good, enjoyable and informative review. Thank you!

[@johnseffs0161]

Amazingly thorough review. Thanks

[@CarandDrivingCarReviews]

Thank you for watching

[@alan9758]

it may not be as fast as the Germans its not meant to be but its much more reliable by a long way

[@FleetAdmiral215]

Superb, Detailed review

[@CarandDrivingCarReviews]

Glad you liked it!

[@markotango54]

I love my 2017 IS300H

[@dougrodriguez4977]

Too bad we dont get that power plant in the US.

[@brendonoleary519]

The MPG on the dashboard shots is... surprising. Is 38 MPG indicative of what an owner can expect, or was that sustained "spirited" driving?

[@croydonmassive]

Beautiful looking car. Pity Lexus decided to discontinue it in the UK.

[@michalholwek8832]

MK4 is available in the states and it is a beauty. All IS are fantastic.

[@steviesteve750]

What is the real world eco? Given that is it's usp....

[@glade6076]

What MPG was you actually getting whilst doing this review?