How much horsepower does the Lexus IS Turbo have?
The Lexus IS Turbo has about 241 horsepower in its most common specification (2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4). In some markets the figure is shown slightly differently due to regional tuning and testing standards.
Engine specs and market figures
The IS Turbo uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that Lexus marketed as the IS 200t in North America. The commonly cited horsepower figure is 241 hp (178 kW) with around 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. The official rating can vary by market due to different testing procedures.
- United States: 241 horsepower (SAE net).
- Europe: approximately 238 horsepower (DIN) for the same engine variant.
- Other markets: typically around 240 horsepower, depending on calibration.
These numbers illustrate how a single turbocharged engine can carry slightly different labels depending on the testing standard and local tuning.
Context and performance
In addition to horsepower, the IS Turbo's 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers about 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque, available over a broad rev range, and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The result is brisk acceleration typical of compact luxury sedans in its era.
Understanding the horsepower figure helps compare the IS Turbo to rivals in its class, such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, where turbocharged 2.0-liter engines typically sit in a similar horsepower band, though torque and weight influence real-world performance.
Summary
Overall, the Lexus IS Turbo offers around 241 horsepower in the U.S. market, with regional variations around 238–240 horsepower in other regions. The torque and drivetrain tuning also contribute to its real-world performance.
