2011 Lexus IS

The Lexus IS sports sedan adds optional all-wheel-drive to its IS 350 model for 2011, and both the IS 350 and IS 250 get some minor exterior styling tweaks, a new optional F Sport Package and new HID headlamps (standard on the IS 350, optional on the IS 250). All gas-powered 2011 Lexus models get a new standard brake override system to ensure that engine power is reduced if the driver steps on the accelerator and brake pedals at the same time. Otherwise, the 2011 model is identical to the 2010 version. For more on this car, see our page on the 2010 Lexus IS (Base MSRP $32,145 to $37,595).

The federal government had not posted updated 2011 fuel-economy estimates for the Lexus IS when we checked. Fuel economy for the models that were available in 2010 carries over unchanged. The base Lexus IS 250 with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission delivers an estimated 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, dropping to 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway/22 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. A six-speed manual transmission cuts fuel economy to 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway/21 mpg combined. The Lexus IS 350 delivers 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway/20 mpg combined with its more powerful engine and rear-wheel drive.

Crash ratings for the 2011 Lexus IS are based on the 2010 model. This car earns the highest rating of Good in front- and side-crash tests at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, dropping to Acceptable in rear crashes. IIHS has not tested the IS's rollover roof strength. In government tests, the Lexus IS gets the highest 5-star ratings for avoiding rollovers and protecting the driver in a side crash, dropping to 4 stars in frontal crashes and for protecting rear passengers in a side crash. Standard safety features include antilock brakes; traction and stability control; front, front-side and curtain airbags, and Lexus's Safety Connect emergency communication system.