2009 Lexus IS: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Lexus IS gets slightly freshened styling and revised suspension tuning. Four models with three engines are offered. IS 250 has a 204-hp 2.5-liter V6 engine and is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The IS 350 has a 306-hp 3.5-liter V6 and is rear-drive only. The high-performance IS F has a 416-hp 5.0-liter V8. Rear-drive IS 250s have a 6-speed manual transmission. Optional on those and standard on the AWD IS 250 and IS 350 is a 6-speed automatic. IS F has an 8-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and front knee airbags. Also standard are leather upholstery and a sunroof. Available is Lexus' Pre-Collision Safety System, which is designed to automatically cinch seatbelts and apply brakes if an unavoidable crash is detected. IS F models have specific sport suspension, tires, and trim.

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 Buy in the Premium Compact Car class is the BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX, Audi A3, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura TSX and Audi A4.