2009 Lexus IS
The Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 are the second-generation follow-up to the successful Lexus IS 300, first introduced in 2001. The compact, rear-wheel-drive 4-door sedan was engineered to compete with the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, so it offers several different engine and performance choices—just like its European competitors. With a luxurious interior and sport-sedan underpinnings, the Lexus IS 250/IS 350 is fun to drive yet very comfortable on the highway. With a choice of 6- or 8-cylinder engines (the latter offered only in the performance-tuned IS F model), the EPA fuel economy cycle rates the IS 250 at 21 mpg city, and 29 mpg highway (with automatic transmission). In our 2008 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, where consumers are surveyed about their delight with the design, content, layout and performance of their vehicle, the Lexus IS 250/IS 350 ranked highest in its segment. The small Lexus receives a minor facelift for 2009, and the high-performance IS F model receives an interior refresh.
2009 Small Premium Cars Buyer's Guide
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