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Lexus IS Saloon (1999-2005) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 26 - 29 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Depreciation levels remain impressively low, but there’s no diesel option and both six-cylinder engines can be thirsty if you aren’t careful. 20,000 mile service intervals help keep costs down.

IS is a polluting model. With an average of 238 g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are a little high for a medium-sized saloon. It’s worth noting that the line-up does not feature any diesel models, which typically produce less carbon dioxide than petrol engines with similar power outputs. The range is quite thirsty, averaging 28 mpg.

Performs very well in reliability surveys – probably the best in its class.