2009 Lexus IS 250 AWD La Fayette GA

November 19, 2009   By Brian Alexander, Road Test Editor

2009 Lexus IS 250

2009 Lexus IS 250

DriverSide Overview
For 2009, the IS 250 gets a few styling changes and settings tweaks. For anyone well versed in the IS lineup then, relatively little has changed. But then again, why mess with a winning formula? The IS 250 is a comfortable, almost cosseting entry-level luxury sedan, the kind of place where the proposition of sitting still for several hours doesn’t bring to mind fears of sore backsides and numb legs. As a sports sedan, the IS 250 AWD is held down by its lackluster engine, soft suspension and heavy all-wheel drive system, but for 2009 Lexus has introduced a lineup of F-Sport Performance Accessories for drivers keen on getting a bit more out of their car. In all honesty the performance parts don’t make as much sense on the automatic-only IS 250 AWD, but we think the addition of a sports suspension, short-shift kit and exhaust to a manual transmission rear-wheel drive model would smooth out some of the drive issues and create a better overall package.

What's to Like
Inside, the IS 250 is pure comfort thanks to incredibly soft seats, decent ergonomics and luxurious leather trimmings. Exterior and interior stylings are both unique and charming, without going too far. All-wheel drive system adds versatility to the package.

What's Not to Like
A few more horsepower wouldn’t go unnoticed. You’ll have to dig around a bit before you’re able to fully wrap your head around the climate controls, as temperature functions are operated by console-mounted buttons, but vent and fan controls are hidden within the navigation screen. Rear seat is a bit of a squeeze for most.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
Overall, the IS 250 AWD is generally a comfortable, quiet place to be. The 2.5-liter V-6 engine is no screamer and feels just adequate given the extra bulk of the car’s all-wheel drive system, but as long as the revs are kept high it does its job. Paddle shifters come standard for those who like selecting gears, but the system merely limits the highest gear the car will shift into, meaning if you stomp on the throttle in manual mode the car still has a tendency to downshift. Steering isn’t nearly as finicky and turns the car in cleanly and directly, although there is a minimal amount of on-center deadness. We would recommend ordering the car with radar cruise control, satellite radio and premium sound so you relax on long trips in its luxurious cabin.

Engine and Drivetrain
The IS 250 AWD is powered by a 2.5-liter, quad cam V-6 engine that makes 204 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Power is driven to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Interesting Vehicle Features and Options
Keyless start/stop is standard, which at first seems a bit on the silly side but trust us, you&...

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