For The diesel gives far better economy than the V6 petrol - and much lower emissions. Even the most basic version is well equipped, with 10 airbags, climate control and alloy wheels.

Against Lexus's diesel engine is a real disappointment and not as punchy as you'd expect. It feels laboured in sixth gear and the engine chugs noisily around town.

Lexus IS Saloon

What Car? says

2 out of 5 stars

If you must have a diesel IS, this is the one to go for. But, make sure you can live with this engine's relative lack of driveability.

What Car? readers say

3.510638


Key facts

0–60mph
10.2 secs
Top speed
127 mph
Average mpg
55.4
Tank range
792 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole Lexus IS Saloon range

Cheaper

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The full Lexus IS review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

Lexus buyers are a very happy bunch - the brand sits permanently on top of the JD Power Customer Satisfaction Survey, so buying and owning an IS should prove a highly satisfying experience. Owners report being particularly happy in three key areas: vehicle quality and reliability, vehicle appeal and service satisfaction.

However, just because the dealers are so nice to you and their dealerships so plush, don't feel you can't haggle. The IS is the slowest-shifting model in the Lexus range, so there are always deals across the entire range.

Also, remember to haggle on the price of options, too. Although a Lexus buyer might not have to raid the options' list as much as an Audi or BMW buyer might, negotiate on everything you opt for.

Reader test team says:

Lexus IS Saloon 220d 2.2 (Multimedia) 4dr

See review below! For some reason the average mpg didn't register? Best I got was 46mpg, worst was 36mpg.

Michael Corlett

4 out of 5 stars

Lexus IS Saloon 220d 2.2 4dr

Potentially a really good car spoiled. It is surprisingly quick and has fair economy. The cabin build quality and equipment provided is good. Also on…

Steven Crichton

2 out of 5 stars

Lexus IS Saloon 220d 2.2 SE 4dr

This is a frustrating car, In terms of looks its the prettiest car money can buy (apart from the 159 ). So Lexus got the looks part 100% The…

Sean Orlov

3 out of 5 stars

Lexus IS Saloon 220d 2.2 SE-L (SR+Multimedia) 4dr

After owning an Alfa Romeo, I decided to go for a reliable car. The Lexus was one of several manufacturers I looked at (Audi, BMW, Mercedes). To begin…

Thomas Hefford

4 out of 5 stars
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