Dealers Now Taking Orders for Updated 2017 Lexus IS

The Lexus IS lineup, which includes the IS 200t, IS 300 and IS 350, is set to gain some nice updates for the 2017 model year. Now, this new-look IS is ready for delivery, as Lexus has finally opened its order books. With the refreshed luxury sedan set to hit showrooms, the automaker has increased discounts on the outgoing 2016 model.

For 2017, the IS gains a slightly revised front end, a new hood, standard LED headlights, updated L-shaped LEDs in the taillights, rectangular exhaust outlets, a 10.3-inch screen, and standard Lexus Safety System+.

Shoppers not enthralled by these changes currently have a nice range of incentives from which to choose on the outgoing version. Buyers can currently enjoy 0.9 percent APR for 72 months plus a $1,500 finance bonus on all remaining 2016 IS models.

In lieu of the special financing rate, Lexus is offering $2,500 in customer cash. These are without a doubt the biggest discounts we’ve seen on the 2016 IS, as Lexus tries to clear out the old to make room for the revamped model.

The 2016 IS 200t currently ranks as one of the best luxury car lease deals thanks to substantial discounts. In California, you can lease one from $329 for 36 months with $1,999 due at signing. There's also a zero-down option starting at $389 per month.

Shoppers should be aware that the 2017 IS is $500 more expensive than the outgoing version as the IS 200t now starts from $38,800, the IS 300 from $41,175, and the IS 350 from $42,345.

Most shoppers may not be aware that these are prices for base models, and that Lexus dealers tend to stock units bundled with extra goodies, such as the Premium Package, the F Sport Package, and the Navigation System Package. If you have your heart set on a base model, you may have to do a little searching.

If you’ve been debating buying the 2016 IS, now is the time to take the leap, as the incentives may not get much better unless Lexus rolls out something special for its yearly December to Remember sale. The automaker began a major shift in strategy back in August by offering cash incentives for the first time. Shoppers are currently poised to get an outstanding deal while the selection is still good.