The first Lexus IS was aimed squarely at the executive driver bored with premium German brands. It did its job well, but with the second-generation IS launched in late 2005, Lexus upped the ante with a genuine challenge to BMW and Audi.

Three years on, it has failed in that challenge — maybe because Lexus underestimated how faithful mid-level execs are to their chosen premium brand. Or perhaps it’s to do with the stigma of Alan Partridge driving an IS. Maybe it’s simply that nobody understands what a Lexus says about you.

The case for the second-generation Lexus IS is quite compelling, though. It is bigger, better looking and more generously equipped than its predecessor, and there’s the lure of the Lexus brand’s legendary quality and reliability. Also, this version was the first Lexus to offer diesel power — ages after all the rivals.

The 2.2 litre diesel is a proven unit, having cut its teeth in the Toyota Avensis, and isn’t short of power, producing 175bhp. The 0-62mph sprint takes just 8.9sec and fuel economy is 44.8mpg in the combined cycle. All good stuff, but while this engine feels as if it’s among the best when under an Avensis bonnet, it’s outclassed against Lexus rivals from BMW and Mercedes.

Given the diesel’s forecourt premium and the high cost of diesel fuel, the 2.5 litre petrol V6 may be better for the private buyer. Producing 204bhp, it is free-revving, smooth and refined, and gives the IS real executive-car ambience and performance. With the optional six-speed automatic transmission it’s perfect for soothing motoring, and this gearbox is so efficient it actually benefits fuel economy, so it’s well worth paying £750 more for it.
By doing away with the chronograph-style dials of the first-generation IS, Lexus signalled that this version is more grown-up. It has more space, too, although rear-seat passengers won’t welcome a third traveller, and front-seat occupants would describe their environment as “cosy” at best.

It’s the same for the boot, which, at 378 litres, is hardly cavernous. Some may complain that the absence of either a folding rear seat or an estate body option (as in the first-generation car) is something of an oversight.

Equipment levels are decent, regardless of model specification: entry level cars have climate control, alloy wheels and cruise control, but spend another £1,500 on an SE and you gain heated hide seats and 17in alloys. The Sport model appeared in April 2006, but its firm ride is not to everyone’s taste.

The second-generation Lexus IS wasn’t a hit, but as a second-hand buy it is appealing for its reliability, style and driving manners, although the lack of German prestige does limit its allure.

CHECK THE FOLLOWING:-
 
ALLOY WHEELS
Optional 18in wheels give harsh ride

AUTOMATIC GEARBOX
Six-speed auto has paddle-shifters
 
REAR SEAT
Doesn’t fold, so practicality is limited
 
SAFETY
Euro NCAP five stars for adult occupancy, four for child occupancy
 
SATELLITE NAVIGATION
Touch screen unit is an optional extra. Expect to pay about £750 more for it
 
SEATS
Eight-way electric-adjust driver’s seat
 
SECURITY
Alarm, immobiliser and keyless entry standard on all models
 
SERVICING
Fixed at 12 months or 10,000 miles
 
SPARE WHEEL
Space-saver is stowed under boot floor, so check that it’s there
 
STEREO
Standard 13-speaker stereo is superb

 

Alternative

Or for similar money:

2005 55 VW Phaeton 3.2 V6 4Motion

2006 06 Mercedes C 320 Avantgarde SE

2006 56 BMW 325i SE
 
2007 07 Audi A4 2.0T FSI SE multitronic

2007 07 Jaguar S-type 3.0 V6 Sport

Figures based on CAP September 2008 edition

 © Bumper Media Limited October 2008