How fast is a Lexus IS 200t?
The IS 200t delivers brisk, everyday-usable performance, offering about 240–245 horsepower with a 0–60 mph time in the mid‑6‑second range and a top speed around 140–143 mph, depending on the market and configuration.
More context: The IS 200t is Lexus’s turbocharged variant of the compact IS lineup, introduced in the mid‑2010s to provide a quicker alternative to the naturally aspirated V6. It uses a 2.0‑liter turbocharged inline‑4 (the 8AR‑FTS) paired with an 8‑speed automatic and rear‑wheel drive as standard in most markets, with some regions offering all‑wheel drive or slightly different tuning. The exact figures can vary by market, model year, and equipment such as tires and wheels.
Performance specifications
The following numbers summarize the engine output and acceleration characteristics of the IS 200t, with typical configurations noted. Exact figures may vary by market and model year.
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline‑4 (8AR-FTS)
- Power: about 240–245 horsepower (approximately 180 kW)
- Peak torque: around 350 Nm (258 lb‑ft)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: rear‑wheel drive (standard); all‑wheel drive available in some markets
- 0–60 mph: roughly 6.3–6.8 seconds
- 0–100 km/h: roughly 6.9–7.4 seconds
- Top speed: around 140–143 mph (225–230 km/h) depending on market
These specifications reflect the IS 200t’s blend of turbocharged power and Lexus refinement, offering confident acceleration for day‑to‑day driving and highway merging without sacrificing ride comfort.
Market variations
Before diving into market-specific details, note that official numbers can shift slightly due to local tuning, tire choices, and available drivetrains. The following highlights the most common regional differences.
- United States: The IS 200t was not sold as a separate trim in the US; buyers typically encountered IS 250, IS 300, or IS 350 variants with different engines and performance profiles.
- Europe/UK/Australia: The IS 200t (sometimes marketed as IS Turbo) was commonly offered with a 2.0‑L turbo producing around 245 hp, with RWD as standard and optional AWD in some markets. Transmission remained an 8‑speed automatic.
- Tire/wheel and equipment effects: Performance figures can be influenced by tires, wheels, suspension setup, and optional equipment, which can cause small variations in acceleration and top speed.
In practice, regional choices shaped the precise acceleration times and top speeds, but the core performance character remained similar: a strong, turbine‑like turbo surge with a smooth, refined delivery rather than a raw sports‑car feel.
Real‑world performance and influencing factors
Real‑world times and the driving feel of the IS 200t can be affected by several practical factors, beyond the official numbers. Drivers often notice how the car responds in everyday conditions and upon passing maneuvers on highways.
- Transmission behavior: The 8‑speed automatic can be quick in sport mode, but in normal mode it may prioritize efficiency, affecting response in sportier driving situations.
- Tire choice and road surface: High‑grip performance tires and good asphalt improve launch traction and cornering grip, which can shave tenths off 0–60 mph times.
- Vehicle weight and options: Heavier trims, luxury packages, or larger wheels increase inertia and can slow acceleration slightly compared with lighter configurations.
Overall, real‑world performance tends to align with the published figures, with typical drivers experiencing sub‑7‑second 0–60 times and strong highway overtaking ability, paired with the characteristic Lexus ride quality.
Summary
The Lexus IS 200t delivers a compelling balance of turbocharged performance and premium refinement. With roughly 240–245 hp, about 350 Nm of torque, and 0–60 mph times in the mid‑6‑second range, it offers brisk acceleration suitable for daily driving and highway merging. Market-specific variations exist, but the core performance and experience remain consistently refined across regions.
What IS the top speed of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t?
The top speed of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t is 143 mph. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in about 7.0 seconds with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
You can watch this video to learn more about the performance of the 2016 Lexus IS200t: 59sSaabkyle04YouTube · Jan 27, 2016
- Top Speed: 143 mph
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 241 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
- 0-62 mph: 7.0 seconds
IS the Lexus 200t fast?
The IS200t is not considered "fast," but it is quick for its class and has plenty of power for passing, thanks to a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 241 horsepower. However, it can feel slow off the line due to a noticeable turbo lag and throttle delay, making it a sporty and comfortable daily driver rather than a true performance car, with a 0-60 mph time around 7 seconds.
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7 seconds.
- Performance: It feels quick once the turbo is spooled up, making it good for passing, but it has a noticeable delay from a stop.
- Intended purpose: A reliable and comfortable sports sedan that is fun to drive, but not a high-performance car.
How much HP does an IS200t have?
The Lexus IS200t has 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, delivered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine. This setup allows it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.9 seconds.
You can watch this video to learn more about the engine and performance of the IS200t: 59sEngineering ExplainedYouTube · Mar 13, 2016
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 241 hp at 5,800 rpm
- Torque: 258 lb-ft at 1,650 rpm
- 0-60 mph: 6.9 seconds
IS Lexus IS 200t faster than IS250?
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Lexus IS 250's base engine makes 204 horsepower, and the Lexus IS 200t base engine makes 241 horsepower. The IS 250 is rated to deliver an average of 24 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 522 miles.
