The second-generation Lexus IS (XE20) marks a turning point for Toyota's premium division. Designed to compete head-on with the German benchmarks (3 Series, C-Class, A4), it adopts a rear-wheel-drive architecture and a dynamic design (L-Finesse philosophy). To conquer the European market, Lexus introduced a diesel engine under the hood of the IS 220d (borrowed from Toyota) for the first time in its history. Paradoxically, this desire to adapt to the European market spawned the least reliable version in the range, contrasting sharply with the legendary reliability of the V6 petrol versions (IS 250, IS 350), which border on mechanical perfection. A facelift occurred in 2008, then in 2010 (introduction of the IS 200d).