Is the Lexus IS250 good on gas?

The Lexus IS250 is a compact luxury sedan that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class, the IS250 still delivers respectable gas mileage for a luxury car.

Fuel Economy of the Lexus IS250

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Lexus IS250 with rear-wheel drive has an estimated fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel drive version of the IS250 has slightly lower ratings of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.p>

These fuel economy figures are about average for a compact luxury sedan. In comparison, the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 have similar or slightly better gas mileage ratings. However, the Lexus IS250 still offers better fuel efficiency than larger luxury sedans like the Lexus ES or GS.

Factors Affecting Fuel Economy

Several factors can impact the real-world fuel economy of the Lexus IS250, including:

• Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving will decrease fuel efficiency.


• Terrain and weather conditions: Hills, stop-and-go traffic, and extreme temperatures can all reduce gas mileage.


• Vehicle maintenance: Properly inflated tires, regular oil changes, and other maintenance can help maximize fuel economy.


• Aftermarket modifications: Adding performance parts or accessories may slightly decrease the IS250's fuel efficiency.

Overall, the Lexus IS250 provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy for a compact luxury sedan. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option in its class, the IS250 still delivers respectable gas mileage that should satisfy most drivers.

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Is 250 years to avoid?

You should avoid Lexus IS 250 models from the 2006-2009 years, as they are prone to issues like carbon buildup in the engine, melting/sticky interior plastics, and an outdated infotainment system. Models from 2010 and newer are better because they have updated piston rings to address the carbon buildup issue and revised interior components. The Lexus IS 350 is often recommended as a better alternative due to its more powerful engine and avoidance of the specific 250's direct injection engine problems. 
Years to avoid

• 2006-2009: These years are known for significant problems.
  • Engine: The direct injection engine is prone to carbon buildup, which can lead to oil consumption and misfires. This issue was a major reason some owners avoid these years altogether.
  • Interior: Many owners reported melting or sticky dashboards and door panels, especially in these model years.
  • Infotainment: The navigation and overall infotainment system is considered very outdated by modern standards. 

Recommended models

• 2010 and newer: These models are the preferred choice for the IS 250 because they feature an updated engine with revised piston rings to combat the carbon buildup problem.
• 2010 and newer: These years also have updated interior components, which should prevent the melting/sticky dash and door panel issues.
• IS 350: If your budget allows, the IS 350 is often recommended as a more powerful alternative that does not have the specific direct injection engine problems found in the IS 250. 

Other considerations

• Even with the updated 2010+ models, regular maintenance is crucial. Owners recommend consistent oil changes and checking the fluids to ensure the longevity of the vehicle. 
• Some owners of the IS 250 have successfully maintained their older models by following a rigorous maintenance schedule and addressing issues as they arise. 

Is the Lexus IS250 a reliable car?

The Lexus IS250 is generally considered a reliable car, with a good reliability rating of around 4.0 to 4.8 out of 5. Its reliability is especially strong if basic maintenance is followed, though a key weakness to be aware of is a potential issue with carbon buildup in the engine, which can lead to problems if not addressed. Other potential issues include aging plastic components, but these are typically superficial and don't impact the car's mechanical performance.
 
This video discusses common problems and overall reliability of the Lexus IS250: 59sReDrivenYouTube · Jan 14, 2024
Positive aspects 
This video highlights the positive ownership experience and reliability of the Lexus IS250: 48sLife with SondurenYouTube · Nov 22, 2022

• High reliability ratings: The IS250 consistently receives high reliability scores from different sources, often ranking well for its class. 
• Lower ownership costs: The average annual repair cost is around $487, which is lower than average and means ownership can be more affordable. 
• Durable engine: Despite a specific vulnerability, the engine is generally considered to be very high quality and can last well over 100,000 miles with proper care. 
• Other positive features: Many owners praise the IS250 for its comfortable ride, solid construction, and overall smooth performance. 

Potential issues

• Carbon buildup: A major issue is carbon buildup on the direct-injection engine, especially in second-generation models, due to unburnt fuel. This can be exacerbated by using regular gasoline or excessive idling and may cause misfires and other drivability problems. Addressing this can include using a fuel system cleaner or ensuring you use high-octane fuel, according to Reddit users. 
• Aging plastics: Over time, plastic components like dashboard pieces or side moldings can degrade, crack, or come loose. While this is a common issue for this generation of car, it's largely a cosmetic concern. 
• Other complaints: Other less common complaints include discolored rearview mirrors, a clicking noise from the rear suspension, and issues with the GPS or radio software. 

This video discusses the major issues of carbon buildup in the Lexus IS250: 1mBern on CarsYouTube · Mar 24, 2025
What to do

• Perform regular maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial, especially for oil changes, to help prevent engine issues. 
• Use high-octane fuel: Using high-octane fuel can help minimize carbon buildup on the engine. 
• Consider newer models: Later models, particularly those made after 2010, are less likely to have the carbon buildup and "melting dash" problems, notes a Reddit user. 
• Check for existing problems: When buying a used IS250, check for signs of carbon buildup and be prepared to address it. A mechanic can perform a thorough inspection. 

Does a Lexus IS 250 need premium gas?

Yes, the Lexus IS250 recommends premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) for optimal performance and to prevent engine knocking. While using a lower-octane fuel like regular 87 octane won't cause immediate, catastrophic damage, it may lead to engine knocking and reduced performance over time, and can contribute to faster carbon buildup on engine parts. 
Recommended action

• Use premium gasoline: For the best engine performance, efficiency, and longevity, use 91 octane or higher. 
• Use regular sparingly: If you must use 87 octane, it's best to do so only in a pinch and to return to premium as soon as possible to avoid potential issues. 
• Be aware of performance impact: The engine computer will adjust, but you may notice reduced performance when using lower-octane fuel. 
• Prevent long-term damage: Consistent use of lower-octane fuel can lead to persistent engine knocking, which can cause long-term engine damage.