High points of this version of the Lexus IS include eye-catching styling and a silky smooth V6 . Performance is rather pokey though. We originally tested the 2.5-liter V6 version, which delivered just 21 mpg overall. Beginning with the 2016 model year, the 2.5-liter was replaced by a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and fitted to a new trim line: IS 200t. The new engine produces 241 hp and is mated to an eight-speed automatic. The IS 200t is rear-wheel drive only. Also new is the all-wheel drive IS 300, which uses a 255-hp version of the 3.5-liter V6 and is hooked up to a six-speed automatic. The IS 350 was unchanged.
Handling is nothing special. Body roll is fairly well contained, but the car isn't particularly agile. The steering is appropriately weighted, but feels vague and doesn't telegraph much feedback. When pushed to its handling limits at our track, the IS was secure and forgiving, but overly pronounced understeer diluted the handling finesse and enjoyment drivers expect from a sports sedan.
Moreover, the IS' ride comfort doesn't compensate for the car's lack of agility; it's neither plush nor tied down.
You'll also be disappointed if you expect the quietness of a typical Lexus interior. Road noise penetrating the cabin creates an out of character -- at this price point -- din.
The interior is very tight, even by the modest standards of this class. The narrow cabin, wide center console, and large overhanging dashboard caused many of our drivers to feel cramped and closed-in. Making matters worse is a lump on the floor protruding into the driver's space on all-wheel-drive versions.
Other gripes: In-cabin storage is inadequate. Getting in and out is an ungraceful chore. And rear-seat passengers must put up with very tight confines. Fit and finish is decent, but it's not up to today's top-flight standards.
The IS controls now include the fussy, distracting mouse-like controller found in other Lexus models. You select items in the display by moving the controller, but it's easy to overshoot your intended target.