Lexus IS 250 Overview

The IS 250 compact-midsize luxury sedan, like most Lexus models, places emphasis on refinement and luxury while still offering decent driving dynamics. For 2011 the model comes in a single trim level. Power comes from an advanced quad-cam VVT-i 2.5-liter V6 engine making 204 hp, mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed paddle-shifted automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive models can be ordered with either transmission, while all-wheel drivers are limited to the automatic.

Standard equipment is quite generous, including 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity utilizing a 13-speaker stereo system with satellite radio, and Lexus' Safety Connect telematics system. Optional features include a navigation system, a rearview camera, a 14-speaker Mark Levinson enhanced audio system and the F Sport package, which adds a sport-tuned suspension and better brakes as well as visual enhancements. While at around $33,000 the IS 250 is a value buy in the luxury sport sedan segment, the more-powerful and better-equipped IS 350 is only around $6,000 more.