What is the 0 60 on a 2012 Lexus IS 250 RWD?
The 0-60 mph time for a 2012 Lexus IS 250 with rear-wheel drive and the standard automatic transmission sits around 7.6 to 8.0 seconds in stock condition.
That figure reflects a car powered by a 2.5-liter V6 producing about 204 horsepower and roughly 185 lb-ft of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic. Test conditions, trim specifics, and drivetrain setup can shift the result by tenths of a second.
Powertrain and performance context
The IS 250 is tuned for refined, everyday acceleration rather than quarter-mile sprinting. It uses a 2.5-liter V6 and rear-wheel drive in the US market, with a six-speed automatic that offers a Sport mode to alter throttle response and shift points.
Factors that influence 0-60 timing
Several variables influence how quickly the car reaches 60 mph. The following are the main factors testers and owners consider when evaluating acceleration.
- Transmission and gearing: The IS 250 in the US typically uses a six-speed automatic; there is no manual transmission option for this model year. The Sport shift mode can alter throttle mapping and shift timing, affecting 0-60.
- Weight and load: Vehicle weight, passenger load, and cargo influence acceleration as extra mass requires more power to reach speed.
- Tire grip and surface: Tire type (summer/performance vs all-season), tread depth, and road surface affect the available traction and acceleration times.
- Environment: Temperature, humidity, altitude, and weather conditions affect engine power and traction.
- Driving technique: The acceleration test method (launch style, torque delivery, and how aggressively the throttle is applied) can lead to small differences in measured times.
Under typical showroom conditions, most tests place the 0-60 time in the high 7-second to around 8-second range for a stock IS 250 RWD with automatic transmission.
Notes on testing and variability
0-60 figures are highly sensitive to testing methodology and vehicle condition. Variations from a few tenths of a second are common between magazines, weather, tire condition, and whether the car is equipped with optional equipment that affects weight or drivetrain behavior.
Summary
For a 2012 Lexus IS 250 with rear-wheel drive and the standard automatic transmission, a typical 0-60 mph time is about 7.6 to 8.0 seconds. Expect some fluctuation based on test conditions and vehicle setup, but it remains a refined, comfortable acceleration rather than a sport-focused sprint.
What year Lexus IS250 to stay away from?
A: While the Lexus IS 250 is generally a reliable vehicle, the 2007 and 2008 model years are the ones you should avoid if possible. These two years have more reported issues compared to other model years, though they still perform better than the worst years of many other vehicle models.
What is the 0 to 60 on a Lexus IS250?
The 2.5-liter pulls the IS to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, two seconds slower than the 3.5-liter. Still, that's 0.1 second quicker than the fastest IS300 we'd ever tested. The IS250 jogs through the quarter-mile in 15.4 seconds at 90 mph (tying that old IS), compared with the 3.5-liter's 13.7-second sprint at 104.
Is a 2012 Lexus IS 250 a good car?
The 2012 Lexus IS 250 is considered a good car, especially for its reliability and comfort, but it has a significant known issue with carbon buildup in the V6 engine. While it offers a comfortable ride and a high-quality interior, the engine's direct-injection system is susceptible to carbon deposits, which can cause problems if not addressed with a specific carbon cleaning service.
Pros
- Reliability: The car has a high reliability rating from sources like RepairPal and Kelley Blue Book.
- Comfort: It provides a comfortable and refined ride, with high-quality materials and a well-appointed interior.
- Performance: For a "grand tourer," it offers adequate performance, and some reviewers find the six-cylinder engine satisfying.
- Features: It came with a good set of standard and optional features, including a navigation system, backup camera, and heated/cooled seats.
Cons
- Engine Carbon Buildup: The 2.5L V6 engine is prone to carbon buildup, which can lead to misfires and drivability problems. This is a known issue that requires a specific cleaning service, costing around \$250, to fix.
- Fuel Economy: It requires premium fuel.
- Interior Quality: While the fit and finish are top-notch, some reviews note that the optional leatherette can rip with age.
- Rear Seat Space: The rear seat accommodation is small compared to other models in its class.
Overall
The 2012 Lexus IS 250 is a good choice for those seeking a reliable and luxurious used car, but it is crucial to be aware of the carbon buildup issue. A pre-purchase inspection should include checking for this problem, and buyers should budget for the necessary cleaning service to ensure long-term engine health and performance.
What is the 0 60 time for a 2012 Lexus IS 250?
The 2012 IS ranges in power from the IS 250 Sedan 4D with 204 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 7.9 seconds to the IS F Sedan 4D with 416 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds.
