Item: Used Lexus IS Saloon 1999 - 2005
Rating: 4
Author: What Car? Team

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Saloon

In the same way that Infiniti acts as Nissan’s premium arm, Lexus has a similar tie-in with Toyota. And since most of Toyota’s models are offered as hybrids, it’s no surprise to see the same from Lexus, although there are some traditional petrol engines, too.

The brand focuses heavily on SUVs – namely the NX and RX – but also has the CT hatchback, ES executive saloon and LS luxury car among its portfolio. More small and large SUVs are expected in the future.

Like Toyota, Lexus has built a very strong reputation for reliability and regularly finishes very close to the top of our annual Reliability Survey.

LEXUS

It's a likeable compact executive car that's a sensible owning proposition, but dear to buy

Used Lexus IS Saloon 1999 - 2005

Running costs are typical for a compact executive, while the IS's fantastic reputation for reliability suggests that you can expect never to have to face a surprise repair bills.

Using main dealers for servicing is expensive, but there isn't the network of specialists that Mercedes-Benz and BMW owners can turn to capable of tackling the work cheaply and well. At least a Lexus stamp in the service book helps maintain a healthy resale price, however.

Fuel economy isn't great, either: only up to 29mpg overall in the 2.0 and as little as 20mpg in town, while the 3.0 manages only up to 26mpg overall and just 18mpg in town.

At least, insurance is cheap - all 2.0s fall within group 12, while the 3.0 is just one group higher.

It's a likeable compact executive car that's a sensible owning proposition, but dear to buy

Go for a 2.0-litre model with SE trim. The smaller engine has enough power, and is a better match for the car's abilities than the much more powerful 3.0.

The entry-level model is badged as an S and well kitted out, including air-con and alloy wheels as standard, but the SE adds leather seats and, on later models, sat-nav - all desirable stuff. The Sport matches these equipment levels, but adds bigger alloys, skinny tyres and a stiffened suspension, which combine to ruin the ride.

The 3.0 has an automatic gearbox as standard, but the 2.0 can have a choice of that or a six-speed manual. Either transmission is good.

The car kept its original handsome lines without a major face-lift throughout its six-year life, but equipment levels were steadily raised over time, so that the last of line had everything you could think of. All of which translates into a simple instruction: buy as new a car as you can.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes. If rear space is crucial and you’re willing to put up with a less-than-premium badge, the Skoda Superb is tough to beat, while if you want a premium badge on the bonnet then the BMW 3 Series is consistently one of our favourites in this class.

And don't think you're limited to just petrol or diesel-powered choices in this class,&nbsp;because at the top end the Tesla Model 3 is well worth considering for its long range and engaging driving style.

Executive

There's little to worry about in the way of faults and imperfections on the IS. The car took once first place in the JD Power customer satisfaction survey, and Lexus as a company occupied that slot for many years without a break.

Lexus's success story doesn't end there. Not only was the company in top slot yet again, it also rated as the most improved make, owners saying that customer service from the dealers just gets better and better.

One black mark is that the IS200's alloy wheels are subject to corrosion, but dealers are pretty good at fitting new sets for free if the car is still under its maker's warranty. Clutch judder is the other main problem that owners report, but again dealers are usually sympathetic about picking up the tab for repairs to new-ish cars.

As far as value goes, the IS is the best way of owning a Lexus. But, don't think you're short-changing yourself by going for the company's cheapest model.

Like its bigger, more expensive brothers, the IS has a reputation for being utterly dependable, and is capable of racking up huge mileages without major repairs. Lexus dealers are known to work hard to keep customers happy - What Car? hears plenty of praise and scarcely a complaint.

The IS a fine car, too. It grips and steers well, although a little more feedback through the controls wouldn't go amiss, and the S and SE ride stiffly, while Sport models can be harsh.

The cabin looks good, the equipment levels easily beat those of rivals, and everything looks and feels well screwed together. There are some nice details, too, like the instruments that resemble an outsize designer watch and lift the looks of a dash that's plasticky to the touch.

There are no complaints about comfort up front, but space in the back is tight for adults, particularly when three sit abreast, and the boot isn't that big.

Used Lexus IS Saloon 1999 - 2005 review

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Used Lexus IS Saloon 1999 - 2005 review

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