Starting at $40,275
7.5/10
C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
![2022 Lexus IS Review, Pricing, and Specs (2) 2022 Lexus IS Review, Pricing, and Specs (2)](https://i0.wp.com/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/2021-lexus-is-500-f-sport-performance-mmp-1-1631279437.jpg?crop=0.894xw:1.00xh;0.0545xw,0&resize=768:*)
Michael Simari
|Car and Driver
7.5/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
- Highs Aggressive styling, upscale interior, front seats fit like a glove.
- Lows Tight rear-seat passenger space, four- and six-cylinder engines don't provide ample power, rivals offer more engaging handling.
- Verdict Sharp looks and an upscale cabin make the IS a compelling choice among compact sports sedans, but its driving dynamics are still off the mark.
Overview
With its chiseled features and premium interior, the 2022 Lexus IS looks the part of a compact sports sedan. Three engines are available: a turbo four-cylinder, a V-6, or a V-8, with the latter two delivering aggressive F Sport styling and chassis enhancements. Despite its appearance, the IS delivers a refined ride, but those seeking sharp handling may find that it’s too soft. Rivals such the Audi A4, the BMW 3-series, and the Genesis G70 offer more driving engagement and livelier powertrains. Still, the IS offers a well-rounded entry-luxury package with handsome styling and desirable features that should win it favor with buyers seeking curb appeal.
What's New for 2022?
A range-topping IS500 F Sport Performance model joins the lineup for 2022 and boasts a 472-hp 5.0-liter V-8 engine and more aggressive exterior styling elements. The bulging hood, rear diffuser, quad exhaust tips, and subtle trunk-lid spoiler are all unique to the IS500. Elsewhere in the lineup, a new Premium package is now available n IS300 and IS350 trims and it adds 19-inch wheels with either all-season or summer tires and door jamb protectors for the front doors. On the IS350 model, the Memory package adds memory settings for the power-adjustable steering column, exterior mirrors, and driver's seat. That model can now also be ordered with a power rear sunshade.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2022 Lexus IS starts at $40,275 and goes up to $68,550 depending on the trim and options.
Although we're most intrigued by the high-performance IS500 model, its price may put it out of reach of many shoppers. If that's true for you, we'd think the mid-range IS350 F Sport with rear-wheel drive offers most of the IS's performance charms. The F Sport package not only offers more aggressive exterior styling but also comes with unique 19-inch wheels with larger rear tires, a cold-air intake system, a limited-slip rear differential, an F Sport exhaust, and sport seats with heat and ventilation. We'd also opt for the Dynamic Handling package, which includes an adaptive suspension system.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2022 IS has three engine options: a 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the IS300, a 311-hp V-6 in the IS350, and now a 472-hp V-8 in the IS500 F Sport Performance model. We haven’t been fans of the four-cylinder in previous tests of the IS300, as its dull character isn't well matched to the car's athletic chassis. Ordering the V-6 allows the IS to shine and unlocks the F Sport package, which brings numerous performance upgrades such as a limited-slip rear differential, staggered 19-inch wheels, and an optional adaptive suspension. When we tested a rear-wheel-drive IS350 F Sport, we recorded a brisk 5.6-second zero-to-60-mph time—average for this swift class. Looking for the ultimate IS? The V-8-powered IS500 model is the one to consider. At our test track it pulled off a heroic 4.3-second zero-to-60-mph run.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA has given the most efficient IS—the four-cylinder, rear-wheel-drive IS300 model—fuel-economy estimates of 31 mpg highway and 21 mpg city. The V-6 IS350 is rated as high as 28 mpg highway and as low as 19 mpg city; the IS500 is rated for 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. When we drove an all-wheel-drive IS350 on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route, it delivered 30 mpg. For more information about the IS's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
While not nearly as spacious or deluxe as Lexus's flagship LS sedan, the compact IS still offers a premium experience. Power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and push-button start are all standard features, while a power sunroof and leather upholstery are options. When the IS was redesigned for the 2021 model year, Lexus made few changes to the interior, but a discerning eye will notice relocated cupholders, round air vents near the door panels, and an infotainment system that's been moved closer to the edge of the dashboard.
View Photos
Infotainment and Connectivity
An 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard and also uses a console-mounted touchpad; a larger 10.3-inch display is optional and comes bundled with in-dash navigation. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa are compatible with either system. As in the previous-generation IS, a Mark Levinson premium stereo system is available as an option, but this time it has 17 speakers and 1800 watts of power.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
View Crash Test Results
Lexus continues to offer a suite of driver-assistance features as standard on the IS lineup. For more information about the IS's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The IS has comprehensive coverage that's highlighted by the best powertrain warranty. The first year of scheduled maintenance is included at no charge.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 6 years or 70,000 miles
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 1 year or 10,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2022 Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance
Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $57,575/62,075
Options: Premium (heated steering wheel, 360-degree camera, power rear sunshade, parking assist, Mark Levinson speakers, triple-beam LED headlights), $4500
ENGINE
DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement: 303 in3, 4969 cm3
Power: 472 hp @ 7100 rpm
Torque: 395 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: control arms/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 14.0-inch vented disc/12.7-inch vented disc
Tires: Bridgestone Potenza S001L
F: 235/40R-19 92Y;R: 265/35R-19 94Y
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 110.2 in
Length: 187.3 in
Width: 72.4 in
Height: 56.5 in
Passenger Volume: 92 ft3
Trunk Volume: 11 ft3
Curb Weight: 3969 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 4.3 sec
100 mph: 10.4 sec
1/4-Mile: 12.8 sec @ 112 mph
130 mph: 17.5 sec
Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 4.7 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.0 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.3 sec
Top Speed (gov ltd): 149 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 159 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.89 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 15 mpg
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Combined/City/Highway: 20/17/25 mpg
2021 Lexus IS350 F Sport
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
PRICE AS TESTED
$55,220 (base price: $43,925)
ENGINE TYPE
DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement:211 in3, 3456 cm3
Power:311 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque:280 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): control arms/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 13.2-in vented disc/11.7-in vented disc
Tires: Bridgestone Potenza S001L, F: 235/40R-19 92Y R: 265/35R-19 94Y
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 110.2 in
Length: 185.4 in
Width: 72.4 in
Height: 56.5 in
Passenger volume: 92 ft3
Trunk volume: 11 ft3
Curb weight: 3801 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 5.6 sec
100 mph: 14.2 sec
130 mph: 26.0 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.9 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 3.4 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 4.2 sec
1/4 mile: 14.2 sec @ 100 mph
Top speed (mfr's claim): 143 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 155 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.89 g
Standing-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 26 mpg
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 23/20/28 mpg
C/D TESTING EXPLAINED
More Features and Specs
Shopping Tools
What's My Car Worth?
Car and Driver values are calculated from the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.
Get Estimate
Insurance Marketplace
See what you can save on car insurance.
Learn More
Auto Loans & Financing
Our finance experts answer any questions you may have about financing a vehicle.
Learn More
Similar Vehicles
2025 BMW 3-Series
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$46,675
EPA MPG
26–29 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2025 BMW 3-series remains the sports-sedan standard, combining an athletic chassis and a luxurious cabin with a pair of powerful powertrains. Learn More
BMW 3-series Model Years
- View 2025 3-series DetailsStarting at $46,675 · 9.5/10
- View 2024 3-series DetailsStarting at $45,495 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 3-series DetailsStarting at $44,795 · 9.5/10
2024 Audi A5 Sportback
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$47,295
EPA MPG
27–30 combined
C/D SAYS: The A5 Sportback is as easy and fun to drive as the A5 coupe, and also offers junior A7 style, more room for people and luggage, and better fuel economy. Learn More
Audi A5 Sportback Model Years
- View 2024 A5 Sportback DetailsStarting at $47,295 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 A5 Sportback DetailsStarting at $45,695 · 8.5/10
2025 Genesis G70
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$43,250
EPA MPG
C/D SAYS: The G70 takes the traditional sports sedan blueprint and infuses it with upstart energy and attractive price. Learn More
Genesis G70 Model Years
- View 2025 G70 DetailsStarting at $43,250 · 8.5/10
- View 2024 G70 DetailsStarting at $42,750 · 8.5/10
2025 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$50,375
EPA MPG
25–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2025 BMW 4-series Gran Coupe offers buyers the usability of the 3-series sedan with the added swag of the 4-series coupe-like silhouette. Learn More
BMW 4-series Gran Coupe Model Years
- View 2025 4-series Gran Coupe DetailsStarting at $50,375 · 8.5/10
- View 2024 4-series Gran Coupe DetailsStarting at $49,295 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 4-series Gran Coupe DetailsStarting at $46,895 · 8.5/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$48,100
EPA MPG
27–30 combined
C/D SAYS: The latest Mercedes-Benz C-class is a lot like a miniature S-class, with similar looks and tech features, only in a smaller package that’s sportier to drive. Learn More
Mercedes-Benz C-class Model Years
- View 2024 C-class DetailsStarting at $48,100 · 8/10
- View 2023 C-class DetailsStarting at $46,000 · 8.5/10
2024 Audi A4
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$42,995
EPA MPG
27–30 combined
C/D SAYS: The A4 combines a satisfying driving experience, standard all-wheel drive, and a stout build in an understated yet elegant premium sedan. Learn More
Audi A4 Model Years
- View 2024 A4 DetailsStarting at $42,995 · 8/10
- View 2023 A4 DetailsStarting at $41,395 · 8/10
2024 Audi A5
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$49,495
EPA MPG
27 combined
C/D SAYS: A punchy engine, an agile suspension, and fine steering make the A5 easy to drive, while fetching lines and plenty of cargo room make it a compelling coupe. Learn More
Audi A5 Model Years
- View 2024 A5 DetailsStarting at $49,495 · 8/10
- View 2023 A5 DetailsStarting at $47,795 · 8/10
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$57,650
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Available in both coupe and convertible forms, the new CLE-class bridges the gap between the C-class and E-class coupes and looks better than both in the process. Learn More
2025 BMW 4-Series
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$51,875
EPA MPG
25–28 combined
C/D SAYS: With two satisfying powertrains and European furnishings, the 2025 BMW 4-Series coupe and convertible blend luxury and performance in a fun, stylish package. Learn More
BMW 4-series Model Years
- View 2025 4-series DetailsStarting at $51,875 · 8/10
- View 2024 4-series DetailsStarting at $50,895 · 8/10
2024 Volvo S60
8
/10
C/D RATING
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Volvo S60 succeeds as a comfortable, stylish sedan but falls short as a driver's car, which isn't a dealbreaker for folks who prefer the former. Learn More
Volvo S60 Model Years
- View 2024 S60 DetailsStarting at $43,645 · 8/10
- View 2023 S60 DetailsStarting at $42,395 · 8/10
2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$43,285
EPA MPG
26–27 combined
C/D SAYS: Few sports sedans can match the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia when it comes to joyful road manners, and as a bonus, it wears a stunning wardrobe of Italian couture. Learn More
Alfa Romeo Giulia Model Years
- View 2024 Giulia DetailsStarting at $43,285 · 8/10
- View 2023 Giulia DetailsStarting at $45,875 · 8/10
2024 Acura TLX
7.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$46,195
EPA MPG
21–25 combined
C/D SAYS: With updated looks, available all-wheel drive, and up to 355 horsepower, the 2024 Acura TLX is a bona fide sports sedan. Learn More
Acura TLX Model Years
- View 2024 TLX DetailsStarting at $46,195 · 7.5/10
- View 2023 TLX DetailsStarting at $41,245 · 7.5/10
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
More From Lexus
2025 Lexus Electrified Sport
Starting at
$100,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: Before the world even knows its name, theLexus Electrified Sport teases exciting performance like the famed V-10-powered LFA. Learn More
2024 Lexus TX
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$55,050
EPA MPG
23 combined
C/D SAYS: Lexus's most family-friendly three-row SUV has touched down in America, and this luxury version of the Toyota Grand Highlander goes by the name TX. Learn More
2024 Lexus TX Hybrid
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$69,350
EPA MPG
27 combined
C/D SAYS: With more space inside and a third row of seats, the 2024 Lexus TX Hybrid provides buyers with a Lexus SUV that's far roomier for passengers than the two-row RX. Learn More
2026 Lexus TZ
Starting at
$60,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: A trademark filed earlier this year foiled the surprise reveal of the 2026 Lexus TZ, which we speculate will be an all-electric SUV with three rows of seating. Learn More
2024 Lexus ES
7
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$43,190
EPA MPG
25–44 combined
C/D SAYS: Offering a smooth driving experience, lots of safety features, and a plush interior, the Lexus ES out as the reasonably priced mid-size luxury sedan. Learn More
Lexus ES Model Years
- View 2024 ES DetailsStarting at $43,190 · 7/10
- View 2023 ES DetailsStarting at $43,090 · 7/10
- View 2022 ES DetailsStarting at $42,100 · 6.5/10
- View 2021 ES DetailsStarting at $41,075 · 6.5/10
- View 2020 ES DetailsStarting at $40,925 · 6.5/10
- View 2019 ES DetailsStarting at $40,775 · 7/10
- View 2018 ES DetailsStarting at $39,945 · 4/10
- View 2017 ES DetailsStarting at $39,895 · 4/10
2024 Lexus GX
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$64,250
EPA MPG
17 combined
C/D SAYS: After 13 years on the market without a major redesign, the Lexus GX has relaunched for 2024 with an entirely new platform, powertrain, and presence. Learn More
Lexus GX Model Years
- View 2024 GX DetailsStarting at $64,250 · 9/10
- View 2023 GX DetailsStarting at $60,025 · 5/10
- View 2022 GX DetailsStarting at $57,275 · 5/10
- View 2021 GX DetailsStarting at $54,525 · 5/10
- View 2020 GX DetailsStarting at $54,025 · 5/10
- View 2019 GX DetailsStarting at $53,530 · 6/10
- View 2018 GX DetailsStarting at $53,150 · 6/10
- View 2017 GX DetailsStarting at $52,675 · 6/10
2024 Lexus LC
7
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$99,800
EPA MPG
18–29 combined
C/D SAYS: Snazzy and sumptuous, the 2024 Lexus LC is a grand-touring two-door with the looks of an exotic sports car and the comfort of a flagship luxury car. Learn More
Lexus LC Model Years
- View 2024 LC DetailsStarting at $99,800 · 7/10
- View 2023 LC DetailsStarting at $95,600 · 7/10
- View 2022 LC DetailsStarting at $94,300 · 7/10
- View 2021 LC DetailsStarting at $94,125 · 7/10
- View 2020 LC DetailsStarting at $93,975 · 7/10
- View 2019 LC DetailsStarting at $93,325 · 9/10
- View 2018 LC DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
2024 Lexus LS
7
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$80,685
EPA MPG
21–25 combined
C/D SAYS: As the flagship Lexus sedan, the 2024 LS blends a deluxe cabin with a smooth ride but lacks the depth and personality that makes its rivals appealing. Learn More
Lexus LS Model Years
- View 2024 LS DetailsStarting at $80,685 · 7/10
- View 2023 LS DetailsStarting at $78,535 · 7/10
- View 2022 LS DetailsStarting at $77,250 · 7/10
- View 2021 LS DetailsStarting at $77,075 · 7/10
- View 2020 LS DetailsStarting at $76,475 · 7/10
- View 2019 LS DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
- View 2018 LS DetailsStarting at $76,025 · 9/10
- View 2017 LS DetailsStarting at N/A · 7/10
2024 Lexus LX
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$93,915
EPA MPG
19 combined
C/D SAYS: Big, beefy, and off-road capable, the 2024 Lexus LX600 is less trucklike than its predecessor but is missing some of the features of its luxury-SUV competitors. Learn More
Lexus LX Model Years
- View 2024 LX DetailsStarting at $93,915 · 8/10
- View 2023 LX DetailsStarting at $92,160 · 8/10
- View 2022 LX DetailsStarting at $88,245 · 8/10
- View 2021 LX DetailsStarting at $88,700 · 6.5/10
- View 2020 LX DetailsStarting at $87,775 · 6.5/10
- View 2019 LX DetailsStarting at $87,525 · 5/10
- View 2018 LX DetailsStarting at N/A · 5/10
- View 2017 LX DetailsStarting at N/A · 5/10
2025 Lexus NX
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,765
EPA MPG
24–39 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2025 Lexus NX crossover may not be exciting but it is comfortable, with the expected assortment of amenities plus multiple powertrain options. Learn More
Lexus NX Model Years
- View 2025 NX DetailsStarting at $41,765 · 8/10
- View 2024 NX DetailsStarting at $40,605 · 8/10
- View 2023 NX DetailsStarting at $39,755 · 8/10
- View 2022 NX DetailsStarting at $39,500 · 8/10
- View 2021 NX DetailsStarting at $38,685 · 6/10
- View 2020 NX DetailsStarting at $37,895 · 6/10
- View 2019 NX DetailsStarting at $37,510 · 8/10
- View 2018 NX DetailsStarting at $36,980 · 8/10
- View 2017 NX DetailsStarting at $36,280 · 8/10
2024 Lexus RC
5.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,920
EPA MPG
22–25 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Lexus RC is showing its age, but its racy shape, plush interior, and reasonable price go a long way to make up for its mid-pack performance. Learn More
Lexus RC Model Years
- View 2024 RC DetailsStarting at $45,920 · 5.5/10
- View 2023 RC DetailsStarting at $45,820 · 5.5/10
- View 2022 RC DetailsStarting at $43,970 · 5.5/10
- View 2021 RC DetailsStarting at $43,295 · 5.5/10
- View 2020 RC DetailsStarting at $42,320 · 5.5/10
- View 2019 RC DetailsStarting at $42,170 · 7/10
- View 2018 RC DetailsStarting at N/A · 7/10
- View 2017 RC DetailsStarting at N/A · 7/10
2024 Lexus RC F
6.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$68,295
EPA MPG
19 combined
C/D SAYS: The RC F offers a delightfully willing V-8 and a well-finished interior, but its aging platform is heavy and it falls behind the pack dynamically. Learn More
Lexus RC F Model Years
- View 2024 RC F DetailsStarting at $68,295 · 6.5/10
- View 2023 RC F DetailsStarting at $68,195 · 6.5/10
- View 2022 RC F DetailsStarting at $67,370 · 6.5/10
- View 2021 RC F DetailsStarting at $67,050 · 6.5/10
- View 2020 RC F DetailsStarting at $65,925 · 6.5/10
- View 2019 RC F DetailsStarting at N/A · 7/10
- View 2018 RC F DetailsStarting at N/A · 8/10