Where IS the Lexus IS300 made?
The Lexus IS300 is manufactured in Japan.
Production geography of the IS300
The following overview summarizes the primary regions responsible for assembling IS300 models across generations.
- The first-generation IS300 (2001–2005) was built in Japan for global markets, and North American units were sourced from Japanese production lines.
- The second-generation IS (2005–2013; including IS250/IS350) continued to be produced largely in Japan for most markets, with exports distributed worldwide.
- The current-generation IS (2013–present) maintains Japan-based production for IS 300/IS 350 variants, with international distribution organized through Lexus’ established export networks; there is no sustained North American assembly dedicated to this model.
In short, Japan has been the central production hub for the IS300 across its generations, reinforcing its status as a globally distributed luxury sedan built outside North America.
Details by generation
First-generation IS300 (2001–2005)
The original IS300, marketed in the United States as the IS 300, followed the Japanese Altezza lineage and was assembled in Japan. This generation established the model’s reputation for refined handling and a strong inline-six engine, with production aligned to Japan-based facilities that served multiple markets.
Second-generation IS (IS250/IS350; 2006–2013)
For the second generation, Lexus continued to base production in Japan for most regions, with the IS 250 and IS 350 variants manufactured in Japanese facilities before being exported to international dealers. The global distribution relied on these Japan-built units.
Current-generation IS (2013–present)
The present IS generation maintains Japan-based production for IS 300/IS 350 variants. While regional distribution and shipping arrangements can vary, the core engineering and final assembly for this model have remained anchored in Japan.
Summary
Across its history, the Lexus IS300 has been made in Japan, with production decisions centralized there and exports routed to markets worldwide. For buyers and enthusiasts, the model’s Japanese manufacturing lineage remains a defining aspect of its identity and quality standard.
