Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2018 Lexus IS
Our scoring places the 2018 Lexus IS at 8.1/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this sedan. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.8/10, while Value at 7.4/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 8.8/10, reliability is one of this sedan's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The safety score of 8.1/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance scores 7.9/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. The cabin tech earns 8.3/10 — infotainment, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance are all close to the best this class offers.
Priced from $33,558–$39,448, 19 MPG, seating 5, the Lexus IS sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. The 7.4/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Our take: The 2018 Lexus IS is a solid, well-rounded sedan that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2018 Lexus IS ranks #117 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 91% of the segment. Its 8.1/10 overall score is 0.6 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $33,558 starting price is about 21% above the segment's median of $27,664.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which IS Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2015 Lexus IS scores 7.9/10 — within striking distance of the 2018's 8.1 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Fuel economy at 19 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2018 Lexus IS
Is the 2018 Lexus IS reliable?
We rate the 2018 Lexus IS's reliability 8.8/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2018 Lexus IS worth buying?
It scores 8.1/10 overall, ranking #117 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 91% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2018 Lexus IS cost?
The 2018 Lexus IS starts at $33,558 and ranges up to $39,448 across trims (MSRP when new). At 19 MPG, expect roughly $2,763/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which IS years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest IS years we've rated are 2015 (7.9/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.4/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Lexus IS
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More Lexus Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Lexus models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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