2009 Lexus IS 250 4-door Sport Sedan

The current "entry level" model for the Lexus sedan line, the IS consists of the IS 250 in rear-drive or all-wheel-drive variations and the more potent rear-drive IS 350 – as well as the high-performance version, the IS-F (reviewed separately). Visually reminiscent of the larger GS, the IS melds sporty looks, enthusiast flair, a generous roster of standard equipment and legendary Lexus quality into a premium four-door sedan specifically intended to steal buyers away from the gold standard of this segment, the BMW 3 Series. Other competitors include Acura TSX and Audi A4, both of which are marginally more spacious inside.

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Sporty handling, an engaging personality and multiple powertrain and packaging configurations make the 2009 Lexus IS well worth considering by anyone who believes that small is beautiful and that a car is much more than a mere transportation appliance.	Some purists might argue that the Lexus IS lacks the handling precision and crisp visual tailoring of BMW's 3 Series, which remains the benchmark in this category. Limited rear-seat room might also draw frowns from all but the most modestly-scaled passengers.

Both the IS 250 and 350 receive a slight exterior freshening, touting new front and rear bumpers, grille and tail light clusters. Interior changes include folding rear headrests, new interior colors and new seat and door panel sew patterns. The IS 250 gains Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system (VDIM) as standard equipment, while all IS sedans receive improved suspension and steering tuning.