Lexus IS (2013-2020) Review

• 2013: The current-generation Lexus IS goes on sale

• 2017: A mid-life facelift introduces more safety technology, an updated front grille, new lights and sharper styling elements to keep it looking fresh. The IS 300h hybrid is the only model now available to UK buyers.  

2.5-litre hybrid

There was a time when Lexus offered all manner of engine choice to IS customers, but in a push to innovate, it has chosen to get fully behind its hybrid technology and not present anything in the way of diesel alternatives, or high-performance V6 or V8 petrol engines to match those offered by its more established rivals.

This idea of hybrid only could be a stumbling block for many buyers, but the recipe should definitely be tested before completely discounted, because the addition of a potent electric motor and some cleverly stashed battery packs equate to some impressive performance without the associated fuel bills.

Floor the accelerator and there is some unpleasant droning while the E-CVT gearbox does its thing, but it's generally a refined set up that will certainly suit those with plenty of long motorway miles to complete.

Unlike other hybrids, which can be plugged in to recharge, the Lexus works its magic under the skin and doesn't require the owner to do anything. There's no range anxiety here but the downside is a limited all-electric driving range.

In most cases, the IS 300h will call upon the electric motor when crawling at low speed in traffic or around town, while additional assistance is offered to the petrol engine under heavy acceleration, which is how the Japanese marque manages such impressive fuel economy and emissions figures.

The official acceleration time is pegged at 8.4 seconds and it certainly feels brisk enough, while a top speed of 125mph is plenty for most use cases, but don't expect the sort of scintillating performance that was once associated with the V8-powered IS F.

As previously mentioned, the steering doesn't offer much feedback and the additional heft of the batteries means there is a lot weight transfer through sharp corners. This is a vehicle more adept at comfortable cruising, so probably best leave the performance stuff to the Audi RS4, BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz C63.

Executive Edition, Sport, Advance, F Sport and Premier

Lexus has always been known for its generosity in terms of build quality and the levels of technology offered on its more basic models and there is very little change here.

The IS 300h Executive Edition, which starts at £32,900, features an advanced safety system as standard. This includes: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Sway Warning System and Auto High Beam.

On top of this, customers receive Adaptive Cruise Control, keyless entry, heated front seats, a reversing camera and LED headlights, which is a far more attractive package than base cars from German rivals.

However, the small 17-inch alloy wheels, seven-inch infotainment screen and Tahara cloth upholstery don't do much to add to the premium image.

Step up to Sport trim and the IS 300h receives some additional trim elements that make it appear slightly more menacing, including larger 18-inch alloy wheels and black body addenda.

Advance sees the wheels drop back down to 17-inches, which is best for overall ride comfort anyway, but leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, two-way electrical lumbar adjustment for driver an Lexus Navigation are added to the mix.

F Sport takes the performance finishes to the next level with special sports seats, racier body work and bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels, but customers can also add a Plus Pack to this that sees leather seats, a power adjustable steering column, auto folding mirrors and Lexus premium navigation added on top.

A Premier Pack for F Sport, which tops the range at £42,400, sees all the racy additions bolted on but also introduces the 10.3-inch entertainment system and the excellent Mark Levinson premium sound system.

Finally, Premier models come with everything mentioned in the F Sport Premier Pack model above, but swaps the sports seats for more conventional (and comfortable) front seats and does away with the sportier body kit.

Lexus has a strong reputation for solid build quality and good reliability, which is backed up by a dealer network that has historically gone above and beyond customer expectations in order to distance itself from the competition.

As a result, three Lexus models featured in the top 15 places of the 2018 Auto Express Driver Power customer satisfaction survey, with the IS only beaten by the Skoda Octavia and Honda Civic to the top ten.

Sister company Toyota also enjoyed several places in the top ten, which goes to show just how well built these Japanese cars are.

Thanks in part to their excellent record for reliability and notable customer service experience, the Lexus IS will hold its value much better than previous models, although similarly specified German rivals will likely be worth more on the used market.

This is great news for those wanting good quality, nearly new examples, but could come as a bit of a blow to owners wanting to trade in after a couple of years of ownership.

There are currently 5 Lexus ISs available on BuyaCar, with prices ranging from £15,850 to £23,639 for nearly-new models. The car is particularly affordable on finance, thanks to high residual values. Monthly finance payments start from £315.26 per month.