Body Styles

Sedan

Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)

The “IS” stands for Intelligent Sport, signaling Lexus's intent to create a driver-oriented sedan that also maintains the comfort, quality, and refinement that define the brand. Launched originally as a Japanese-market Altezza, the IS evolved into Lexus’s BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 rival, and this generation represents the company’s strongest push toward performance credibility in the segment.

While the 2014–2020 models focused on comfort and styling, the 2021 facelift introduced revised chassis dynamics (via the GA-K modular influence), a wider stance, and improved driver engagement. It was also the first Lexus sedan developed extensively at the Shimoyama performance test facility, where Lexus aims to shape the dynamic DNA of all future vehicles.

Model Name Meaning (Languages)

“IS” has a universal, tech-forward name that doesn’t require translation. “Intelligent Sport” conveys a sense of balanced athleticism, consistent with Lexus’s image as the refined alternative to German rivals. The name has been globally consistent since the model’s introduction.

Body & Interior Colors and Rims

The Lexus IS is offered in a carefully curated palette including Caviar (black), Eminent White Pearl, Matador Red, Iridium Silver, and Atomic Silver, with the 2021 refresh adding bold options like Infrared, Grecian Water Blue, Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0, and Cloudburst Gray on F SPORT trims.

Inside, upholstery options range from NuLuxe synthetic leather to genuine leather on higher trims, with interior themes such as Black, Rioja Red, Glazed Caramel, and Circuit Red. F SPORT models feature Aluminum trim, perforated sport seats, and a race-inspired digital gauge cluster inspired by the LFA supercar.

Wheel options range from 17” split-spoke alloys on base trims to 19” staggered-width forged BBS wheels on the IS 500 F SPORT Performance Launch Edition, with optional matte black or gunmetal finishes.

Top Expensive Options

• IS 500 F SPORT Performance 5.0L V8 Engine – standard on IS 500, exclusive for North America
• Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound (17 speakers, 1,800W) – $2,750
• Navigation with 10.3” Display & Dynamic Voice Command – $1,800
• Premium Triple-Beam LED Headlamps with Adaptive Function – $1,250
• F SPORT Dynamic Handling Package (AVS + Torsen LSD) – $3,800
• Panoramic View Monitor with Parking Assist Sensors – $1,200
• F SPORT Heated and Ventilated Performance Seats – $1,000
• Carbon Fiber Rear Spoiler and Mirror Caps (IS 500 Launch Edition) – standard or $1,500
• Power Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel with Memory – $550
• Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 (standard from 2021) – included

vs Competitors

The IS competes with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Genesis G70, and Acura TLX. While many rivals push turbocharged four-cylinder engines with hybrid options, Lexus stayed committed to naturally aspirated powertrains and traditional driving feel, especially with the IS 350 V6 and the IS 500’s 5.0L V8 — a rarity in the modern luxury compact class. Compared to the 3 Series or A4, the IS focuses less on sheer tech and more on tactile engagement, build quality, and reliability.

Fun Fact

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance brought back the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 with 472 hp, making it the most powerful IS ever and the only V8 compact sedan under $60,000 in the U.S. market. It was a love letter to enthusiasts in the twilight of the combustion era, with a signature Lexus exhaust note and no turbos in sight — a modern-day spiritual successor to the IS F.