Best Lexus IS Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

The Lexus IS has been the brand's compact sport sedan since 1999, taking on the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C‑Class across three generations. From the rev‑happy first‑gen IS300 to the bullet‑proof V6 second generation and the long‑running, heavily updated third generation that survives today, the best Lexus IS model years reward buyers who want rear‑wheel‑drive balance, Lexus reliability, and naturally aspirated engines that just keep running. While its German rivals chased ever‑larger touchscreens and turbocharged downsizing, the IS quietly stuck with proven six‑cylinder engines and conventional automatics, which is exactly why it ages so well as a used buy. This ranking weighs real engines, transmissions, handling, interior quality, and used‑market value to find the standout IS model years.

1. 2021‑2024 IS 350 F Sport 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Lexus gave the third‑gen IS a major mid‑cycle overhaul for 2021, stiffening the body, widening the track, and retuning the suspension on a sharpened chassis that finally matched the car's sporty looks. The 3.5‑liter 2GR V6 carries over with around 311 hp and about 280 lb‑ft of torque through a smooth 8‑speed automatic, achieving 0‑60 mph in roughly 5.6 seconds. The cabin gained a larger touchscreen plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, addressing the biggest complaint about earlier cars, and the F Sport adds adaptive dampers, sport seats, and aggressive styling. Reliability remains excellent given the proven naturally aspirated V6 and conventional automatic. Best for buyers who want the most polished, modern naturally aspirated IS with current tech.

2. 2006‑2013 IS 350 (Second Generation)

2006-2013 IS 350 (Second Generation)

The second‑gen IS 350 introduced the superb 3.5‑liter 2GR‑FSE V6 making approximately 306 hp and 277 lb‑ft of torque, paired with a 6‑speed automatic for 0‑60 in about 5.3 seconds, genuinely quick for its era and still brisk today. The chassis is beautifully balanced, the build quality is classic Lexus solidity, and these engines routinely surpass 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. Now affordably priced on the used market, a clean IS 350 is a reliability legend that drives far better than its age suggests. Best for buyers who want a quick, durable used sport sedan that will run nearly forever.

3. 2014‑2016 IS 250 / IS 350 💎 BEST VALUE

2014-2016 IS 250 / IS 350

The early third‑generation cars brought sharper, spindle‑grille styling and a roomier cabin while keeping proven powertrains under the hood. The IS 250 uses a 2.5‑liter V6 (around 204 hp) and the IS 350 the 3.5‑liter V6 (about 306 hp), both with conventional automatics and available all‑wheel drive. These years now represent the best value in the lineup, modern enough to feel current and comfortable but deeply depreciated. The IS 350 is the one to get for performance; the IS 250 is the efficient, low‑cost commuter. Best for value buyers who want a near‑new feel at a used‑car price.

4. 2008‑2014 IS‑F

2008-2014 IS-F

The high‑performance IS‑F packed a 5.0‑liter 2UR‑GSE V8 making around 416 hp and 371 lb‑ft, with an 8‑speed automatic and 0‑60 in about 4.5 seconds. It is the rarest and most exciting IS, a genuine BMW M3 rival with a wailing V8, stacked quad exhausts, and an aggressive widebody stance. Built in limited numbers, it has become a sought‑after modern classic, and values are climbing steadily as enthusiasts recognize its place in Lexus performance history. Best for collectors and enthusiasts who want a V8‑powered modern classic that is appreciating.

5. 2017‑2020 IS 350 F Sport

2017-2020 IS 350 F Sport

The late‑pre‑facelift third‑gen IS 350 keeps the 311 hp 3.5‑liter V6 and 8‑speed automatic while adding standard Lexus Safety System+ active safety tech, including pre‑collision braking and lane‑keep assist. The F Sport trim sharpens the steering and dampers and looks the part. These cars split the difference between the bargain 2014‑2016 models and the sharper 2021+ refresh, often available with low miles at attractive prices. Best for buyers who want modern safety tech and the V6 without paying 2021‑plus prices.

6. 2001‑2005 IS300 (First Generation)

2001-2005 IS300 (First Generation)

The original IS300 is an enthusiast cult favorite, powered by the legendary 2JZ‑GE 3.0‑liter inline‑six making around 215 hp, the naturally aspirated sibling of the Supra's iconic engine. Rear‑wheel drive, available with a 5‑speed manual, and endlessly tunable, it is a bona fide future classic that the aftermarket loves. The cabin shows its age with chronograph‑style gauges and dated plastics, but the driving purity and bullet‑proof inline‑six are the enduring draw. Clean, unmodified examples are getting harder to find. Best for enthusiasts who want a rear‑drive, inline‑six modern classic.

7. 2022‑2024 IS 500 F Sport Performance (Concept)

Lexus announced a performance‑focused variant that would have paired the 5.0‑liter 2UR‑GSE V8 (the IS‑F's engine) with approximately 472 hp and 395 lb‑ft for 0‑60 in about 4.4 seconds. The model never entered mass production, remaining a limited‑run concept and a showcase of what a V8‑powered IS could look like. While it never became a regular buyer option, the concept highlights Lexus' willingness to explore high‑performance directions. Best for enthusiasts interested in the rare concept and its potential future influence.

8. 2014‑2020 IS 300 (4‑cylinder turbo)

2014-2020 IS 300 (4-cylinder turbo)

To boost efficiency, Lexus offered an IS 300 with a 2.0‑liter turbocharged four‑cylinder making around 241 hp and 258 lb‑ft in rear‑drive form. It is the most fuel‑efficient gasoline IS and torquey in everyday driving thanks to the turbo's low‑end punch, though it lacks the V6's smoothness and aural appeal. All‑wheel‑drive IS 300 models used a 2.5‑liter V6 instead. For commuters who want lower running costs, it makes sense. Best for commuters who want better economy with adequate everyday punch.

9. 2006‑2013 IS 250 AWD

The second‑gen IS 250 with all‑wheel drive uses a 2.5‑liter V6 (about 204 hp) and a 6‑speed automatic, prioritizing all‑weather security over outright speed. It is a sensible, reliable choice for snowy climates, and it is plentiful and cheap on the used market thanks to high production. The modest power is the obvious trade‑off, so it suits buyers who value confidence and dependability over acceleration. Best for cold‑climate buyers who want AWD reliability on a budget.

10. 2001‑2005 IS300 SportCross

The rare IS300 SportCross wagon brought the 2JZ inline‑six and IS300 dynamics in a practical five‑door body, sold only briefly in the U.S. market. It is genuinely collectible today, combining cargo practicality with enthusiast appeal and that beloved inline‑six. Low production volumes make clean examples hard to find and increasingly valuable, so condition and history matter enormously. Best for collectors who want a rare inline‑six Lexus wagon with everyday usability.

How to Choose

Decide first whether you want a modern car or a classic, because the IS spans both worlds well. For the best modern IS, the 2021‑2024 IS 350 F Sport is the clearest pick, combining the proven V6 with a meaningfully sharpened chassis and the current tech buyers expect, including smartphone integration. Value shoppers should target the 2014‑2016 IS 250 or IS 350, which still feel contemporary inside at a fraction of new‑car prices, with the 350 the smart choice for those who want real pace. If you want a reliability legend that will outlast almost anything, the 2006‑2013 IS 350 is hard to beat and will run for decades with basic care. Enthusiasts chasing emotion should look at the IS‑F or the IS 500 concept for V8 sound and appreciation potential, or the original IS300 with its tunable 2JZ inline‑six. Cold‑climate buyers benefit from IS 250 AWD, while efficiency‑minded commuters can choose the IS 300 turbo. Always confirm full service history and verify the V6 versus four‑cylinder badge before you commit.

How We Ranked

Our ranking combines quantitative data and qualitative assessment:

Each model year was scored against these criteria using data from Lexus specifications, independent road‑tests (Car and Driver, MotorTrend), owner surveys (Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds), and reliability studies (J.D. Power). Scores were normalized and weighted to produce the final ranking.

FAQ

What is the most reliable Lexus IS model year? The 2006‑2013 second‑generation IS 350 is widely regarded as the most reliable, thanks to its bullet‑proof 2GR‑FSE V6 engine and proven six‑speed automatic. Owners consistently report trouble‑free operation past 150,000 miles with routine maintenance. The 2014‑2016 third‑generation models are also very dependable, though early examples may have minor infotainment glitches.

Which Lexus IS model years should I avoid? Some 2017‑2019 IS 300 and IS 350 models with the eight‑speed automatic experienced occasional transmission hesitation, which Lexus addressed with software updates. The 2011‑2013 IS 250 had carbon buildup issues on the direct‑injection engine, requiring walnut blasting every 60,000‑80,000 miles. Overall, no generation has major reliability red flags.

Is the Lexus IS 350 F Sport worth the premium over the standard IS? Yes, if you value sharper handling and sportier aesthetics. The F Sport adds adaptive suspension, a more aggressive body kit, and sport‑tuned steering that improves cornering feel. On the used market, expect to pay roughly $2,000‑$4,000 more than a standard IS 350, but the driving experience is noticeably more engaging.

How long do Lexus IS engines typically last? The 2.5‑liter 4GR‑FSE and 3.5‑liter 2GR‑FSE V6 engines routinely exceed 200,000 miles with proper care, and many reach 250,000‑300,000 miles without major repairs. Key factors are regular oil changes every 5,000‑7,500 miles and timely cooling‑system maintenance. The first‑gen 2JZ‑GE inline‑six in the IS300 is similarly durable.

What is the best Lexus IS for a daily driver in 2025? The 2021‑2024 IS 350 F Sport is the top daily driver, combining a naturally aspirated V6 (≈311 hp), a smooth eight‑speed automatic, and modern tech like Apple CarPlay and Lexus Safety System+. It offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy (≈20‑28 mpg), and strong resale value, typically priced between $35,000 and $45,000 used.

Are Lexus IS models expensive to maintain? Maintenance costs are moderate for a luxury sedan, averaging $400‑$600 per year for routine services such as oil changes, brake pads, and fluid flushes. Parts are widely available and shared with Toyota, keeping repair costs lower than German rivals. Major items like timing belt replacement (first‑gen) or water pump service (second‑gen) run $800‑$1,200 every 90,000‑100,000 miles.

Bottom Line

The 2021‑2024 IS 350 F Sport stands out as the best overall IS for daily driving, blending a durable V6, a sharpened chassis, and modern technology into one of the most dependable sport sedans you can buy. Value buyers should consider a 2014‑2016 IS 250 or IS 350, reliability seekers a 2006‑2013 IS 350, and enthusiasts the IS‑F, the IS 500 concept, or the original IS300. Across every era, the naturally aspirated engines and Lexus build quality make the IS one of the safest used sport‑sedan bets on the market.

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Sources

• Lexus IS – Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_IS
• Lexus IS F – Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_IS_F
• Lexus USA official IS information: https://www.lexus.com/models/IS
• Edmunds Lexus IS reviews and specs: https://www.edmunds.com/lexus/is/
• Car and Driver Lexus IS road tests: https://www.caranddriver.com/lexus/is
• Kelley Blue Book Lexus IS used values: https://www.kbb.com/lexus/is/
• MotorTrend Lexus IS history and reviews: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/lexus/is/