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2007 Lexus IS Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2007 Lexus IS Review:
2007 Lexus IS Review
Lexus's premium compact car is a sporty sedan that offers rear- and all-wheel drive. The IS 250 has a 204-hp V6 engine and is available with rear-wheel drive or AWD. The IS 350 has a 306-hp V6 and is rear-drive. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard for the rear-drive 250. Available for the rear-drive 250 and standard for the other models is a 6-speed automatic. All models have ABS, traction/antiskid control, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and front knee airbags. Also standard are leather upholstery and a sunroof. Heated/cooled front seats are standard on the AWD IS 250, optional otherwise. New for 2007 is an X Package that includes sport suspension and specific interior and exterior trim. Optional on the 350 is Lexus's Pre-Collision Safety System, designed to automatically cinch seatbelts and apply brakes if an unavoidable crash is detected.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.
Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX and Audi A3.
New or significantly redesigned is the BMW 3-Series.
Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX and Audi A3.
New or significantly redesigned is the BMW 3-Series.
News
After some two years of rumors, Lexus unwrapped a V8-powered IS at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in January. Badged IS-F, it's the first in a new high-performance series that will put Lexus toe-to-toe against Audi's S-models, BMW's M-cars, and assorted Mercedes-Benz AMGs. Lexus says its F-cars will enjoy significant power, handling, and styling enhancements over the mainstream models on which they are based.
The IS-F is due in early 2008 with a 5.0-liter V8 expected to make at least 400 hp. Shifting is via an 8-speed automatic transmission, lifted from Lexus' newly redesigned LS460 flagship sedan. Steering-wheel paddles are provided for manual shifting. To handle the big power increase over the V6 IS 350, the IS-F is upgraded to standard 19-inch wheels, specific sport-tuned suspension, and six-piston Brembo-brand brakes of larger size than brakes on other IS models. Pricing will be announced shortly before sales begin.
Meantime, sources still expect Lexus to add four-seat IS coupes and convertibles by 2010. Both should offer the same two V6 powertrains as sedans, and there may be killer V8 versions, but all-wheel drive seems unlikely. The convertible will have a hideaway hardtop. A fabric roof was originally planned, but Lexus reportedly went back to the drawing board once it learned of BMW's new 3-Series retractable.
The IS-F is due in early 2008 with a 5.0-liter V8 expected to make at least 400 hp. Shifting is via an 8-speed automatic transmission, lifted from Lexus' newly redesigned LS460 flagship sedan. Steering-wheel paddles are provided for manual shifting. To handle the big power increase over the V6 IS 350, the IS-F is upgraded to standard 19-inch wheels, specific sport-tuned suspension, and six-piston Brembo-brand brakes of larger size than brakes on other IS models. Pricing will be announced shortly before sales begin.
Meantime, sources still expect Lexus to add four-seat IS coupes and convertibles by 2010. Both should offer the same two V6 powertrains as sedans, and there may be killer V8 versions, but all-wheel drive seems unlikely. The convertible will have a hideaway hardtop. A fabric roof was originally planned, but Lexus reportedly went back to the drawing board once it learned of BMW's new 3-Series retractable.
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2007 Lexus IS Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Steering/handling | Passenger and cargo room |
| Acceleration (IS 350) | Quietness |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
IS 250s feel sleepy on takeoff, strained up steep grades, shy on midrange passing power despite responsive, silky automatic transmission. IS 350 strong in all situations; test example did 5.5 sec 0-60 mph.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 8 | 6.6 |
IS 250s feel sleepy on takeoff, strained up steep grades, shy on midrange passing power despite responsive, silky automatic transmission. IS 350 strong in all situations; test example did 5.5 sec 0-60 mph.
Fuel Economy
Test IS 250 averaged 20.7 mpg in city/highway driving. Test AWD IS 250 averaged 23.3 in mostly highway driving. No opportunity to measure with IS 350. Premium-grade fuel is required.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Test IS 250 averaged 20.7 mpg in city/highway driving. Test AWD IS 250 averaged 23.3 in mostly highway driving. No opportunity to measure with IS 350. Premium-grade fuel is required.
Ride Quality
Closely matches class rivals, but tainted by slight wheel thump on washboard roads, mild float over large crests at speed. Optional sport suspension, 18-inch tires detract slightly from comfort.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.9 |
Closely matches class rivals, but tainted by slight wheel thump on washboard roads, mild float over large crests at speed. Optional sport suspension, 18-inch tires detract slightly from comfort.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Trails benchmark BMW 3-Series, but corners with little body lean, secure grip, agile feel. Optional sport suspension, 18-inch tires furnish little advantage, nor does AWD on dry roads. Electric power steering quick, informative. Brakes furnish swift, drama-free stops, but pedal action slightly grabby.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Trails benchmark BMW 3-Series, but corners with little body lean, secure grip, agile feel. Optional sport suspension, 18-inch tires furnish little advantage, nor does AWD on dry roads. Electric power steering quick, informative. Brakes furnish swift, drama-free stops, but pedal action slightly grabby.
Quietness
Coarse-surface tire thrum noticed, but not intrusive. Wind noise modest. IS 250's engine louder than IS 350's at high rpm, but both engines subdued, relaxed in highway cruising.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.2 |
Coarse-surface tire thrum noticed, but not intrusive. Wind noise modest. IS 250's engine louder than IS 350's at high rpm, but both engines subdued, relaxed in highway cruising.
Controls
Lexus's usual large, legible gauges and handy, intuitive minor controls, but steering wheel obscures switches on lower dashboard. Navigation screen easy to read. It controls many audio and climate functions, but is easier to learn than most navigation systems.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 7.2 |
Lexus's usual large, legible gauges and handy, intuitive minor controls, but steering wheel obscures switches on lower dashboard. Navigation screen easy to read. It controls many audio and climate functions, but is easier to learn than most navigation systems.
Details
Cabin decor is rich and elegant, with a pleasing mix of soft leather, padded surfaces, and nicely textured plastics.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
Cabin decor is rich and elegant, with a pleasing mix of soft leather, padded surfaces, and nicely textured plastics.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Adult-size leg space, but limited head room for six-footers. Seats comfortably shaped and padded. Fine driving stance abetted by tilt/telescope steering wheel with optional power adjustment, but body shape limits views to right-rear, directly aft.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.9 |
Adult-size leg space, but limited head room for six-footers. Seats comfortably shaped and padded. Fine driving stance abetted by tilt/telescope steering wheel with optional power adjustment, but body shape limits views to right-rear, directly aft.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Tight. Head room limited, leg room skimpy with front seats pushed even partway aft. Narrow door openings, small footwells impede entry/exit.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.7 |
Tight. Head room limited, leg room skimpy with front seats pushed even partway aft. Narrow door openings, small footwells impede entry/exit.
Cargo Room
Packing complicated by smallish trunk opening, intrusion from rear wheel arches and trunklid hinges. Cabin storage mediocre.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.2 |
Packing complicated by smallish trunk opening, intrusion from rear wheel arches and trunklid hinges. Cabin storage mediocre.
Value within Class
These premium compacts impress for their design, features, and materials. They also benefit from Lexus's strong resale-value record. However, they're not quite alluring enough alternatives to the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G35--especially in rear-passenger room and comfort.
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 6.3 |
These premium compacts impress for their design, features, and materials. They also benefit from Lexus's strong resale-value record. However, they're not quite alluring enough alternatives to the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G35--especially in rear-passenger room and comfort.
Total Score
| IS 250, manual | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 w/navigation | Class Average |
| 60 | 60 | 62 | 66.7 |
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
| Low Score | 55 | |
| Average Score | 66 | |
| High Score | 67 |
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2007 Lexus IS Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 11/14/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| IS 250 4-door sedan, manual | $30,255 | $26,623 | $590 |
|
|
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| IS 250 4-door sedan, automatic | $31,425 | $27,653 | $590 |
|
|
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| AWD IS 250 4-door sedan, automatic | $34,285 | $30,168 | $590 |
|
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| IS 350 4-door sedan, automatic | $35,705 | $31,420 | $590 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
250
Powertrain
2.5-liter V6 engine, 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, front knee airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, 10-way power front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, trunk pass-through, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, keyless access and starting, power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, digital-media player connection, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage door opener, visor mirrors, map lights, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, 225/45VR17 front tires, 245/45VR17 rear tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, heated/cooled front seats, 225/45VR17 tires.
350 adds to 250:
Powertrain
3.5-liter V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
250, 350
|
$1,290
|
$1,032
|
|
Heated/cooled front seats, wood interior trim. NA AWD.
|
||
|
Luxury Pkg.
|
||
|
2WD 250, 350
|
$3,495
|
$2,796
|
|
AWD 250
|
$2,205
|
$1,764
|
|
Heated/cooled front seats, power tilt/telescope steering wheel, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), wood interior trim, automatic day/night outside mirrors w/tilt-down back-up aid, rain-sensing wipers, power rear sunshade, steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights.
|
||
|
Luxury Pkg. w/18-inch wheels
|
||
|
250, 350
|
$4,215
|
$3,372
|
|
Luxury Pkg. plus 225/40YR18 front and 255/40YR18 rear summer performance tires. NA AWD.
|
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|
Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
350
|
$3,695
|
$2,956
|
|
Heated/cooled front seats, power tilt/telescope steering wheel, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), alloy pedals, rain-sensing wipers, steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights, sport suspension, 225/40YR18 front and 255/40YR18 rear summer performance tires.
|
||
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X Pkg.
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250 manual
|
$1,485
|
$1,188
|
|
350
|
$1,455
|
$1,164
|
|
Alloy pedals, illuminated door sills, front spoiler, sport suspension, 255/40YR18 summer performance tires. NA AWD.
|
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|
X Pkg. w/sunroof delete
|
||
|
2WD 250 manual
|
$985
|
$768
|
|
350
|
$955
|
$744
|
|
Navigation/Mark Levinson Pkg.
|
||
|
250, 350
|
$3,990
|
$3,320
|
|
Navigation system w/voice recognition, rearview camera, wireless cell phone link, Mark Levinson AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/DVD Audio changer.
|
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Preferred Accessory Pkg.
|
||
|
250, 350
|
$197
|
$117
|
|
Cargo mat and net, wheel locks.
|
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|
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Safety |
||
|
Pre-Collision Safety System
|
||
|
350
|
$2,850
|
$2,280
|
|
Includes adaptive cruise control.
|
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Rear-obstacle-detection system
|
||
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250, 350
|
$500
|
$400
|
|
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation system
|
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|
250, 350
|
$2,550
|
$2,168
|
|
Includes voice recognition, rearview camera, wireless cell phone link.
|
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Mark Levinson sound system
|
||
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250, 350
|
$940
|
$752
|
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Satellite radio
|
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250, 350
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$486
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$389
|
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Wood interior trim
|
||
|
250, 350
|
$450
|
$360
|
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Rubber floormats
|
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250, 350
|
$99
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$59
|
|
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
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Rear spoiler
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250, 350
|
$355
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$246
|
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Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights
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250, 350
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$875
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$700
|
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Requires Luxury Pkg.
|
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Headlight washers
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||
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250, 350
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$100
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$80
|
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Requires Luxury Pkg., Luxury Pkg. w/18-Inch Wheels, Sport Pkg., or steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights.
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225/40R18 front and 255/40R18 rear summer performance tires
|
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250, 350
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$720
|
$576
|
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NA AWD.
|
||
|
|
||
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2007 Lexus IS Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Lexus IS 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 180.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.9 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.1 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3455 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.0 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.9 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 30.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V6 | dohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.5 /152 | 3.5 /210 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 204 @ 6400 | 306 @ 6400 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 185 @ 4800 | 277 @ 4800 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 6-speed manual | 20/28 | --/-- |
| 6-speed automatic | 24/32 | 21/28 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Lexus IS 4-door sedan |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 6/70,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/unlimited | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Japan
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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Also in the 2007 Lexus IS Review:
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