Lexus IS III facelift (XE30) (2020 – 2025)

Reliability score : 9.4/10

The third-generation Lexus IS (XE30) received a major facelift in late 2020 (often referred to as 'generation 3.5' or the 2021 model). Although the platform remains identical, the bodywork was completely redesigned, the tracks widened, the chassis stiffened, and the infotainment updated with a touchscreen brought closer to the driver. Withdrawn from most Western European markets in favor of the brand's SUVs, this version focused on North America, Japan, and the Middle East. It stands out with a rich offering of traditional gasoline engines (4-cylinder turbo, naturally aspirated V6, and the spectacular return of the V8 with the IS 500). Overall reliability is exceptional, true to Lexus's reputation, positioning it as one of the most durable premium sedans on the market.

✅ Strengths

Exceptional mechanical reliability (ADAC breakdown rate of 1.2/1000, among the best on the market)
Flawless assembly and interior finish quality (TÜV Report 3-year defect rate of only 9.5%)
Extremely robust Aisin automatic gearboxes (8-speed on RWD, 6-speed on AWD)
Rare availability of a naturally aspirated V8 (IS 500) and a naturally aspirated V6 (IS 350) in this segment
Greatly improved road handling since the 2020 facelift (stiffened chassis, new suspensions)

⚠️ Weaknesses

High fuel consumption on V6 and V8 engines compared to German 4-cylinder turbos
Rear seat space and trunk volume below the category average
Infotainment system still somewhat dated in its menus, despite the welcome addition of the touchscreen
6-speed automatic gearbox on AWD versions (V6) a bit slow compared to current standards
Model almost impossible to find in Western Europe (importation required for gasoline versions)

🎯 Verdict

Buying a '3.5' generation Lexus IS (2020-2025) is one of the safest and most rational choices in the premium automotive market. If you are looking for the latest cutting-edge technologies or the most spacious interior, the German competitors will do better. However, if your absolute priority is long-term reliability, build quality, and 'old school' mechanical driving pleasure (especially with the fantastic naturally aspirated V6 and V8 engines), the IS is untouchable. Data from ADAC, TÜV Report, and What Car? (4.5/5) confirm that this sedan is built to last for decades with minimal issues. Just make sure the fuel pump recall has been performed on 2022 models.

Common issues

Logiciel du système d'infodivertissement (lenteurs, bugs) Low

🔧 Dès l'achat – 50 000 km

💶 0 € (mise à jour) – 300 € (diagnostic/réinitialisation hors garantie)

Vérifier les mises à jour logicielles et la réactivité du système lors de l'essai.

Usure prématurée de la batterie 12V Medium

🔧 40 000 – 80 000 km (3-5 ans)

💶 200 – 400 €

Surveiller les signes de faiblesse, envisager un remplacement préventif après 3-4 ans.

Bruits/grincements mineurs de l'habitacle Low

🔧 30 000 – 70 000 km

💶 0 € (DIY) – 200 € (recherche et correction en garage)

Tester la voiture sur routes variées pour détecter d'éventuels bruits.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£100 – 180
Complete brakes	£400 – 700
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 200

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.