Generation two of Lexus's BMW 3 Series fighter enters its second year with a new sport-package option for the rear-drive, 2.5-litre, 204-hp IS 250. That makes sense, since only the RWD 250 can be sportified with a 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic is standard on the IS 250 AWD, and on the 306-hp, 3.5-litre IS 350. The autobox hardly slows the IS 350 down (0-100 in under six seconds!) but a stick woulda been nice. Around town, the IS feels more comfy than sporty, but when called upon, the rear-drive cars are athletic aplenty. The IS looks sportier outside than in, where the cabin motif is definitely luxurious. There's not much room in the back seat or the trunk, however.
Top-of-the-class power, comfort and build quality
No stick-shift for the super-quick 350