Tests and Features

Lexus' entry-level Lexus IS compact sedan has undergone an important redesign for the 2021 model-year. However, many elements were carried over from the previous generation, which remains a very interesting choice for buyers. Thinking about it? Here’s what you need to know about the 2014-2020 Lexus IS. An Attractive Look …

From 2008 to 2014, Lexus released a particularly radical version of the IS , one gifted with an impressive V8 engine. Alas, all good things come to an end and this model was erased from the catalogue. Last February, Lexus informed us last that the 5.0 L V8 engine was …

For 2021, two compact luxury sedans from Japan introduced new generations to hopefully catch up with the German rivals and also ward off Korea’s impressive Genesis G70 . The Acura TLX and Lexus IS are now sportier and more skilled in their respective ways. But when we tested the latter …

Lexus has no plans to tap out as it fights to stay relevant in the compact luxury car segment. Despite sales of the IS falling 21 percent from 2018 to 2019, the company is back with a redesigned model. The all-new 2021 Lexus IS has its work cut out for …

The new, fourth-generation 2021 Lexus IS was unveiled recently and will arrive at dealerships in late fall. While pricing, fuel economy ratings and full equipment details have yet to be announced, it’s reasonable to assume the car will attract more potential customers, even though the evolution is quite subtle. If …

While certain cars beautifully withstand the test of time, the 2019 Lexus IS struggles to make a good case when pitted against newer compact luxury sedans on the market. In fact, it’s the oldest in the segment along with the Infiniti Q50 as both models date back to 2014. Lexus …

The compact luxury sports sedan segment is a copycat game. At the top of the food chain lies the BMW 3 Series. The other two German carmakers, Audi and Mercedes-Benz, keep gnawing at its ankles, and in some cases, beat it at its own game with the A4 and the …

While researching this review I remembered by a magazine ad I saw once. Shortly after the Lexus IS debuted in 2001 with the 3 Series as its stated target, I stumbled upon a humorous BMW ad depicting a hapless Lexus IS wearing a wolf costume next to the 3 Series.

Given that the luxury compact sedan segment is more popular than ever, there’s no room for error. All players have to be up to par, lest they drag the whole class down with them. And gone are the good old days when the E-Class ruled the roost. Sure, the E-Class …