Lexus IS
Launched as a direct competitor to the BMW 3 Series, the Lexus IS is a Japanese sport sedan that's prized for its balance and tuning potential. It's most notable for its rear-wheel-drive platform and the coveted 2JZ-GE inline-6 engine.
Find one with Spotter →Typical sold price of a Lexus IS ranges from $2,000 to $38,992, based on 21,342 sales tracked on Hypercars. 8,559 currently for sale.
Lexus IS Submodels
The Lexus IS debuted in the US for 2001 as the IS 300, a direct competitor to the BMW 3 Series. It featured a rear-wheel-drive platform and the coveted 2JZ-GE inline-6, instantly earning a reputation for its balance and tuning potential. The first generation (XE10) is remembered for its distinct style, including the chronograph-style gauge cluster, and it laid the groundwork for future performance models.
Collectors prioritize the first-generation IS 300 with the 5-speed manual transmission, a rare combination that offers a pure driving experience. The durability of the 2JZ engine makes these cars popular with tuners and preservationists alike. Later, the IS F, powered by a 5.0L V8, carved its own niche as a reliable and potent Japanese muscle sedan, and clean examples are now highly sought after.
The current market is very broad. While top-tier IS F models and manual IS 300s fetch premium prices, the average sale price of around $17,500 reflects the high volume of newer V6-powered models (IS 250/350) trading as dependable used cars. The wide price spectrum shows the IS serves both as a daily driver and an emerging collectible.
Buying Tips
- The 5-speed manual in the first-gen IS 300 is rare. Check for signs of a transmission swap and verify the car's original spec.
- The 2JZ-GE engine's timing belt needs replacement every 90,000 miles. A failure will cause significant engine damage, so confirm this service has been done.
- On V8-powered IS F models, inspect for a coolant leak from the valley plate. This is a known issue and a time-consuming repair.
- Dashboards on 2006-2013 models can become sticky in the heat. Lexus issued a warranty enhancement for this, so check if the dashboard has been replaced.
- Many IS 300s are heavily modified. Finding a stock, unmodified example is difficult and adds significant value.
Prices for the Lexus IS range from $710 for project cars to $75,250 for low-mileage, high-performance models.
21,342 Lexus IS vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 8559 currently live. Sold prices range from $500 to $9,750,656.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Lexus IS cost?
Based on 21,342 sales tracked on Hypercars, Lexus IS prices typically range from $2,000 to $38,992. There are 8,559 currently for sale.
How many Lexus IS listings are for sale right now?
There are 8,559 Lexus IS listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.