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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2011 Lexus IS

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2014 Lexus IS

Overview

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2011 Lexus IS Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 6.8

In the hotly contested compact premium sedan market, cars such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 are commonly mentioned as the class leaders by both buyers and journalists. However, both groups forget a very strong contender: The 2011 Lexus IS. The 2011 Lexus IS 250 and 2011 Lexus IS 350 offer rear- and all-wheel-drive models, a choice of two state-of-the-art six-cylinder powerplants and youthful styling. While driving enthusiasts may argue that the Germans reign supreme, the IS twins are no slugs. Also, they have a reputation for longevity and low maintenance costs few others in this field can equal. If you can work around its small rear seat and lack of a manual transmission on the 350 models, the IS can be a thoroughly satisfying premium performance sedan.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're stuck on Lexus' quality, sales experience and resale value, but you find some of their offerings a bit tame, test drive a 2011 Lexus IS 250 or 2011 Lexus IS 350. The sharp styling, impressive handling and potent engine choices may change your mind.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you're a driving purist who can't live without a manual transmission or thickly bolstered sport seats, the BWM 3 Series or Audi A4/S4 might be a better fit. The IS' cramped rear seat might also be a deal killer, especially if your passengers vertically surpass the six foot mark.

What's Significant About This Car?

Lexus adds optional all-wheel drive to the 2011 Lexus IS 350. Rear-wheel drive versions of the 2011 Lexus IS 250 and 2011 Lexus IS 350 get a new F-Sport Package. In addition, all 2011 Lexus IS models receive a slight front and rear makeover and some minor interior upgrades.

Driving the IS

Driving Impressions At the heart of the 2011 Lexus IS is a sport suspension that does an admirable job minimizing body roll and lean without also delivering a jarring ride. The IS'...

steering is positive and linear, and the brakes and electronic stability control system work effortlessly to keep the car in check. While the 2011 Lexus IS 350 is the prime mover of this family, even the 2011 Lexus IS 250 feels fairly quick around town. Both models easily cope with the cut-and-thrust of daily commuting as well as freeway passing moves. For the ultimate performance driving experience, opt for the F Sport Package (rear-drive cars only).

Favorite Features

Paddle-Shift Automatic Transmission
Optional in a base Lexus IS 250 but standard on the Lexus IS 250 AWD and Lexus IS 350, this slick sequential six-speed allows you to use the fully-automatic mode or shift for yourself.

Optional F Sport Package
While the well-tuned standard suspension will likely please most buyers, the F Sport Package is firmer and includes an 18-inch wheel and tire upgrade that elevates any rear-drive IS model – but especially the 2011 Lexus IS 350 – to near-BMW 3 Series levels of agility and fun without detracting from the basic ride comfort.

2011 Lexus IS Details

Interior

Simple, clean and tasteful, the interior of the 2011 Lexus IS is the epitome of Lexus' restrained approach to cabin comfort. Soft touch surfaces abound, and leather seating is standard on all models. The 2011 Lexus IS' instrument cluster contains Lexus' Optitron electroluminescent gauges, which glow brightly even in full sunlight. The same cannot be said, however, for some of the secondary readouts and the navigation screen display. Tall drivers will appreciate the front seat's long travel and the tilt and telescoping steering wheel, but rear seat passenger may find both head and legroom at a premium.

Exterior

The 2011 Lexus IS' slight wedge profile has a muscular appearance that is accentuated by blackout B-pillars that blend glass and metal into a single visual element. Prominent shoulder ridges run atop the IS' fenders and highlight a subtle power bulge on the car's hood. The treatment is finished off with a set of well-defined fender flares and lower side sills. The look is completed by 17- and 18-inch wheels surrounded by performance V-rated tires.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Even the baseline 2011 Lexus IS 250 with 204 horsepower and six-speed manual transmission (or optional six-speed paddle-shifted automatic) has a comprehensive array of standard equipment that includes numerous power assists – including 10-way power driver's and passenger's seats – plus dual-zone automatic climate control, power moonroof, SmartAccess remote keyless entry and start and a 194-watt 13-speaker audio system with six-disc CD changer. The 2011 IS 250 AWD adds a sophisticated all-wheel drive system, heated front seats and an automatic transmission as standard equipment, while the 306-horsepower 2011 Lexus IS 350 is available with the automatic only. The IS 350 features HID headlamps, larger wheels and bigger brakes.

Optional Equipment

Key upgrades to the 2011 Lexus IS include the Luxury Plus Package that adds perforated leather heated and ventilated seats, wood trim, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column, and auto dimming outside mirrors. The new F Sport Package adds a sport-tuned suspension and steering upgrades, 18-inch wheels and a dark chrome grille. Other options of note include voice-activated DVD Navigation and the Mark Levinson 14-speaker 300-watt Premium Surround Sound Audio System. The navigation system is also available as a stand-alone option, as are the bi-xenon headlights and Intuitive park assist. Brake, exhaust and suspension upgrade kits are available for F Sport Package-equipped models.

Under the Hood

Two technology-intensive, all-aluminum V6 engines provide clean and comparatively fuel-efficient motivation for the IS line. The 2.5-liter version uses dual Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) and direct fuel injection to develop 204 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. That's sufficient to take a rear-drive IS 250 from zero to 60 miles per hour in a bit under eight seconds with either transmission, and to send the IS 250 AWD to that speed in about 8.5 seconds. The 3.5-liter V6 in the IS 350 adds secondary port injection and cranks out 306 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Backed with the mandatory paddle-shifted multi-mode (Normal/Sport/Snow) automatic, it propels the fleetest member of the IS family to the 60-mph benchmark in about 5.5 seconds.

2.5-liter V6
204 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
185 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/27 (manual), 21/30 (automatic), 20/27 (AWD automatic)

3.5-liter V6
306 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
277 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/27 (RWD), 18/25 (AWD)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Lexus IS vehicles for sale near you.

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2011 Lexus IS Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.1

Out of 10

Based on 355 Ratings for the 2006 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

9.1/10

Quality

9.4/10
Reliability

9.5/10

Performance

9.2/10
Comfort

9.1/10

Styling

9.5/10

2011 IS250 F-Sport RWD w/Nav

By Ray (FL) on Thursday, May 23, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 17,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Resale value, good looking interior and exterior"

Cons: "By-the-book maintanence is high, small backseat"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"The F-Sport model handles very well at high speeds when compared to my previous 2009 IS250. The steering is phenomenal. The interior looks and feels solid. Front seats are definitely an upgrade from the base IS. The F-Sport suspension is tighter and more responsive to quick turns. In terms of acceleration the 2.5L engine does not impress much, but it does the job when passing is necessary and gas mileage is great. The Nav System is a must, not only does it make driving much easier, it cleans up the dash to look much better as well(back-up camera is great too). The maintanence costs can add up, which is why I stick to the basics (oil change, air filters, pump premium fuel, and inspect tire pressure to avoid premature tread wear). I always hear IS drivers complain about tires wearing prematurely, but most likely that is due to neglecting the tire pressure monitor. Driving around with low pressure for 1000 miles will easily take an additional 1000 miles off the life of the tread. At 17,000 miles my tires still look great all around. Why did I buy this car for a second time? For the money, this is one of the best cars out there. I really liked the F-sport Package(black headliner, sport seats, rims, steering, suspension, aero package). Mercedes quality does not match(owned a C-class before the 2009 IS250). BMW styling is dull(inside and out, my brother drives 4-door 335i and he loves my car). Drawbacks: The backseat is small, but if you treat it as a 4-seater you should be fine. No need to do everything the dealer suggests unless you plan to own long-term(5+ years)."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Love it except for maintenance costs

By Lori (AR) on Monday, May 20, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 61,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Great gas mileage; sharp exterior; reliable"

Cons: "High maintenance costs, especially for tires"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I have the 2008 IS 250. I love everything about this car EXCEPT for the high maintenance costs. It requires new tires every 2 years, and I am a very conservative driver. The routine maintenace at the Lexus dealership isn't cheap either. I prefer smaller zippy cars so this one fits me perfectly. Yes, it has a bumpier ride than other similar sedans, but that is in large part due to the low profile tires. I get great gas mileage: 29-30 MPG in town; even higher on the highway. And let's face it, the car is just a good looking car, both inside and out. I get lots of compliments about it. I also take very good care of my car, so even though it's 5 years old, people tell me it looks brand new. Will I purchase another Lexus? Not sure right now. The high maintenance costs will really make me stop and think about it when the time comes. If you are looking to purchase an IS, just be aware of the costs involved. Other than that downside, I absolutely love mine. Since it's paid for, I'm still far better off keeping it a little longer than to trade in for a lower maintenance, lower cost car."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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I love this car

By Les (FL) on Wednesday, May 01, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,599

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"It's handles like a sports car, has plenty of horsepower but is comfortable, good on gas and has all the bells and whistles. At 5 years old it still drives like new."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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I love my car!

By Sadie (AR) on Wednesday, April 17, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 68,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Comfort, stereo, smooth ride, cheap maintenance"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have had my car for over a year and I love it. I haven't had any issues with it and I haven't regretted my purchase one time. If I were to get a new car I would definitely consider buying another IS, but maybe a 350 instead for added pep. I would buy this car over my previous 3-series BMW for sure. Love the cheap maintenance in comparison and how smooth the ride is. I love everything about this car!"

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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Smooth ride - decent mileage

By Tallguy (FL) on Sunday, April 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 50,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 6/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Clean lines, beautiful design, good quality"

Cons: "Tight back seat, large blind-spot"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I sold my Infiniti G35 for the IS250. So far so good. Tight steering radius, smooth ride, easy to find controls, decent mileage (26mpg Hwy - 22mpg City)."

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Can't stop driving it, it's a great sized limo

By Guzeman (NV) on Tuesday, April 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 28,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Everything is top shelf, navigation, keyless entry, wireless pandora, seats are beautiful and great long distance plus 32 mpg driving 322 miles to San Diego. Sold my diesel problematic BMW and never missed it with this Lexus."

4 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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See all 355 reviews