The Good The optional Mark Levinson audio system in the Lexus IS makes music sound superb, and we like the aesthetics and usability of the cabin tech interface. F Sport accessories tune the IS for track handling. The Bad Ride quality becomes harsh with the F Sport suspension. Cabin tech lacks iPod integration and external information sources in the navigation system. The six-speed automatic isn't up to sport driving. The Bottom Line Putting tuner components on the Lexus IS gives it a more sporting character, with only a minimum sacrifice of luxury.

Toyota did not make a mistake when they decided to develop the Lexus, their luxury car line. More than a million Lexus cars were bought since its first launching. Discriminating car lovers patronized these cars because of their comfort, docile performance and great style. In order to bring the car up to speed, the car manufacturer decided to freshen up its image so that the car will appeal to a broader kind of audience.

The Lexus ES is seriously bland and unsporting. It offers a comfortable but uninvolving driving experience, and serves as little more than an excellent tool for getting from point A to point B. There are plenty of people that want just that, which has led to continued sales success for what is considered the benchmark for comfort-oriented, entry-level-luxury sedans. It would be harsh to call it a road-going couch, if for no other reason than the lack of a bench in the front.

This page is for personal, non-commercial use. Lexus IS sedans and convertibles are quick, stylish rear-wheel-drive cars that combine sharp handling with luxury performance features. Trim, sleek and relatively light, they offer paddle-shift transmissions, good brakes and, in the IS , acceleration as quick as 5. The Lexus IS models come in sedan and hardtop convertible versions and with a choice of engines ranging from sensible to sporty to raceworthy.