Is the Lexus IS 250 discontinued?
No — the Lexus IS 250 is no longer offered as a current model. Lexus has moved the IS lineup toward turbocharged four-cylinder and higher-performance V6 variants, and today most markets feature the IS 300, IS 350, and, in some regions, the IS 500 instead of a 2.5-liter IS 250.
Why the IS 250 was phased out
Several factors led Lexus to retire the IS 250 in favor of newer powertrains and streamlined naming. The transition reflected a broader industry push toward turbocharged inline-4 engines and a more consistent global lineup.
- Engine strategy shift: adoption of turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engines to boost efficiency and performance.
- Product lifecycle: newer IS generations introduced updated trims and naming (notably the IS 300 and its turbocharged setup).
- Market demand: customers increasingly favored modern turbo options and a clearer performance ladder, prompting lineup simplification.
In practice, these shifts meant the IS 250 nameplate was phased out in favor of the turbocharged IS 300 and the higher-performance IS 350/IS 500 where offered.
What Lexus offers now in the IS lineup
Today’s IS lineup centers on turbocharged and larger-engine options. In the United States and many other markets, buyers typically see the IS 300, IS 350, and IS 500, with availability varying by region.
- IS 300 — 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (available with rear- or all-wheel drive depending on configuration).
- IS 350 — 3.5-liter V6 (traditionally offered with rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive).
- IS 500 — 5.0-liter V8 (a performance-focused variant available in select markets and trims).
In short, the IS 250 is not offered as a new-car option today. Prospective buyers and used-IS shoppers should consider the IS 300, IS 350, or IS 500 depending on power, drivetrain, and regional availability.
Summary
The Lexus IS 250 has been discontinued as a current model in most markets. Lexus has redirected the IS lineup toward the IS 300 (2.0L turbo), IS 350 (3.5L V6), and IS 500 (5.0L V8) to align with engine trends and demand. Availability can vary by region, so buyers should check local Lexus offerings for precise options and trims. If you own a used IS 250, note that it remains a part of Lexus history but is no longer a new-model choice.
IS there going to be a 2025 Lexus IS?
What's New for 2025? To celebrate the IS's 25th year, Lexus is offering two limited-edition models of the top-spec IS500 F Sport Performance. The Special Appearance model will be limited to only 180 units, and all come painted Flare Yellow and wearing cool-looking 19-inch BBS wheels.
When was the last Lexus IS 250?
Both the sedan and convertible versions of the IS 250 were dropped after 2015, as the 2.5-liter V-6 was discontinued. The IS 250 sedan's spot in the IS family was taken by the rear-wheel-drive IS 200t (renamed the IS 300 for 2018) and the all-wheel-drive IS 300.
IS the Lexus IS250 discontinued?
Yes, the Lexus IS 250 was discontinued after the 2015 model year. Its replacement in the lineup was the IS 200t (which was later renamed IS 300) and the IS 300 AWD, both of which offered a different engine configuration to meet market demands.
This video discusses the discontinuation of the Lexus NX250 and the potential discontinuation of the Lexus IS series: 1mLSFTYouTube · Jun 10, 2025
- Discontinuation: The IS 250 was dropped after the 2015 model year due to the discontinuation of its 2.5-liter V6 engine.
- Replacement models: Lexus introduced the IS 200t (with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four) and the IS 300 AWD (with a modified 3.5-liter V6) for the 2016 model year to replace the IS 250.
- IS 200t: This rear-wheel-drive model was a new addition, featuring a 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged engine with 241 horsepower.
- IS 300 AWD: This model continued with a 3.5-liter V6, producing 255 horsepower.
- IS 350: This model was also continued and available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.
IS Lexus discontinuing the IS model?
Yes, Lexus is discontinuing the current generation of the IS sedan, with production ending in November 2025. However, this is not the end of the model line, as a new-generation IS is expected to debut for the 2026 model year, likely with updated design and new electrified options. The closely related RC and RC F coupes are also being discontinued.
This video discusses the discontinuation of several Lexus models, including the IS: 53sBembliYouTube · Aug 5, 2025
Current generation IS
- End of production: Production of the IS 300, IS 300h, IS 350, and IS 500 will end in November 2025.
- Discontinuation of related models: The RC 300, RC 300h, RC 350, and RC F coupes will also end production around the same time.
Future of the IS
- New generation: A new generation of the Lexus IS is expected to be released as a 2026 model.
- Updated design: The new model will feature a revamped design with cues from the Toyota Crown.
- Electrified options: The next-generation IS will likely have a greater focus on hybrid powertrains.
You can watch this video to see a preview of the new Lexus IS: 57sPerformance LexusYouTube · Sep 27, 2025
