Lexus IS250 Car Review

Facts At A Glance
Car: Lexus IS250 range
Prices: £23,200-£28,850 – on the road
Insurance Group: 13E-14E
Emissions: 231g/km
Performance: 0-60mph 8.1s / Max Speed 144mph
Fuel Consumption: (urban) 20.9mpg / (extra urban) 36.7mpg / (combined) 28.8mpg
Safety: Twin front, side & curtain airbags / ABS / ESP

IS250: Watch-Out BMW

Our Rating: No Rating Available

Over the last few years the Lexus brand is becoming more and more popular amongst the higher-end UK executive car buying set. It seems that the Japanese automaker is finally becoming a serious threat in that car department. And it may be wise for the German carmakers to take a longer look at what is making people lean toward the cars that Lexus puts out. One of the models that is picking up serious steam is the IS250.

One of the main reasons the Lexus IS250 is picking up a bit more attention is that the exterior redesign stands out as a uniquely Japanese car when parked directly next to the German brands. Lexus has made sure that the car looks very little like the BMWs or the Mercedes in the compact executive class. The front end it firm yet sleek which leads to an overall sexy look that is younger and fresher than anything in the BMW line-up.

Another reason that people are drawn to the IS250 is that all the engine choices emit good power for the price. The best engine they offer that fits the affordable, yet powerful bill is the 2.5-litre V6 petrol powered one that produces 204bhp. That is the type of power that can get the car from 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds on the way to a top speed of 146mph. These may not be the best power numbers in the segment, but the way they power distribution is engineered allows for smooth acceleration and the ability to get more speed when needed. Fuel consumption isn't the best, but is about the same as other petrol engines in the class. Lexus estimates 20.9mpg urban, 36.7mpg extra urban and 28.8mpg combined.

The new version of the Lexus IS series comes with an array of handling and safety upgrades. One of the most notable of the upgrades is the Vehicle Integrated Dynamics Management that now comes standard on all IS models. Basically this system works to create seamless communication between the Electronic Brake Force Distribution, the Traction Control System and the Vehicle Stability Control which provides a safe and smooth ride during any weather situation and at any speed.

Standard features on the Lexus IS include; climate control, cruise control, privacy glass, power assisted windows, central locking system and an impressive 13-speaker stereo system that sits at the top level audios systems in any car. All the IS models are also equipped with an excellent security system that will make the care nearly impossible to break into or steal. If one really wants to this car to the next level they need to opt for the available Mark Levinson stereo system that is like having a home theater in the car.

Unless the German brands do something to stop them, Lexus is poised to make a serious dent in the compact executive car class. The Lexus IS250 is just one of the fine choices being offered in the IS line-up. Lexus is also offering a convertible and a sport version in this line that are both sure to draw a lot of attention away from the stale Bavarian brands.