Vehicle: 2008 Lexus IS250 RWD automatic with X Pkg
Price as tested: CDN$41050

With most of IS’s competitions have either completely redesigned or facelifted, it has become the eldest car in its group. So does this IS remains competitive by wearing the Lexus badge?

IS250 remains the most popular in the IS range, thanks to its level of packages available. Its 2.5 liter DOHC V6 with 204hp is enough for its weight, thanks to the smooth-shifting 6-speed manumatic. The powertrain is up to Lexus’s standards of being a smooth operator. 185 lb/ft of torque feels underwhelming consider its a 2.5 liter V6 with VVT-i. However, its more than adequate for typical Lexus buyers but not for those who are looking for a sports sedan.

Lexus offers 2 different kinds of packages for IS250. Both the X and Sport Packages offer sports suspension. Unfortunately, it just makes the IS250 feels more of a compromise than what it already did. The 2nd generation of Lexus IS already offered less of a driver’s feedback than its predecessor, thanks to its more “Lexus like” chassis setting. It doesn’t have the sort of control its predecessor had. Both the IS250, IS350 and IS-F offer disappointing driving experience. Steering is typical Lexus numb and dead. Chassis is detached. Combined this isolated driving experience with 2.5 liter V6’s lack of torque, it makes for a truly disappointing drive. The sports suspension is nothing to offer over the standard setting. It doesn’t have the sort of driving feel those who are buying German sports sedan is looking for, nor the completely isolated floaty experience Lexus is famous for. Its a totally compromised and disappointed so-called sports package. Its a sports sedan by looks, boring as a toaster driving sedan by nature.

Lexus will have a facelift for IS series coming this fall. Combined with the level of prestige this brand gains in the States, it shouldn’t have any trouble selling to those who loves the Lexus badge with sporty styling. Those who are after a Japanese sports sedan with substance should look at the new TL, despite of its controversial styling. We were actually quite like ES350’s completely detached driving experience because this is what Lexus stands for: a Japanese Buick. IS is the worse of both worlds when it comes to providing sportiness with ride comfort.