Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2025 Lexus IS
The 2025 Lexus IS is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 8.4/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.3/10, while Value at 7.6/10 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. Reliability stands out at 9.3/10. The IS nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety lands at 8.4/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.0/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining sedans to actually drive. On technology it rates 8.6/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $42,152–$51,926, 26 MPG, seating 5, the Lexus IS sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. At 7.6/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 1 year old, it's recent enough that the core feature set holds up well against current competition.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2025 Lexus IS will scare a sensible buyer off. It scores consistently across the board, and it does what a good sedan should — quietly and competently.
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 2025 Lexus IS ranks #6 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 100% of the segment. Its 8.4/10 overall score is 0.9 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $42,152 starting price is about 52% 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 2022 Lexus IS scores 8.3/10 — within striking distance of the 2025's 8.4 — 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
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
✗ Where it falls short
Few standout weaknesses — review individual sub-scores for nuance
Some competing models offer a higher overall score at a similar price
Common Questions — 2025 Lexus IS
Is the 2025 Lexus IS reliable?
We rate the 2025 Lexus IS's reliability 9.3/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2025 Lexus IS worth buying?
It scores 8.4/10 overall, ranking #6 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 100% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2025 Lexus IS cost?
The 2025 Lexus IS starts at $42,152 and ranges up to $51,926 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/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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