Three Things that Make the 2019 Lexus IS Standout from Its German Competitors

When it the market for a luxury compact sedan, there are a lot of options on the market. The big three German options, the BMW 3-Series, the Audi A4 and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class are certainly all worthy of consideration, but the 2019 Lexus IS has an impressive set of features that make it standout in a variety of areas.

Starting with value, the 2019 Lexus IS gives its owners more bang for their buck and more standard features than the entry-level BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedans. It’s also more comfortable according to many experts, and its unwavering reliability has been proven time and time again. Let’s take a closer look.

Better Value in the 2019 Lexus IS

The 2019 IS starts at $41,050 which is about $4,000 less than the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and roughly $9,000 less than the new BMW 3-Series. It’s slightly more expensive than the base Audi A4, but by only $2,000… And it has quite a bit more power than the base A4.

Indeed, the 2019 Lexus IS gets a turbocharged four-cylinder engine right out of the gate with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque paired with an 8-speed automatic that sends power to the rear wheels.

In terms of features, the IS is available with an F-Sport package at just over $44,000 with features such as ventilated seats. Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are added to an already complete suite of active safety features included in the Lexus Safety System+:

• Pre-collision Safety System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Automatic High Beam

The 2019 IS is also available with a more powerful naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Offered at just $43,550, this model provides as much power as the base C-Class and BMW 3-Series as well as the Audi A4 55, more in fact, despite a lower starting price.

Even the top-of-the-line Lexus IS 350 with AWD and a more powerful 311-horsepower engine starts at just $53,100. That the most powerful model, and it is nevertheless quite a bit more accessible by thousands of dollars than its competitors. The

Interior Quality and Craftsmanship

Although this may seem intangible, there’s something unique and quite striking about the 2019 Lexus IS interior. It’s modern, yet refined and warm as well. Its instrument cluster dances to the tune of the driving mode you have selected, and although there are a lot of features to organize, everything falls into place and is easily accessible to the driver. Spending time in the IS is a charming proposition.

Unwavering Reliability

Look at the last J.D. Power initial quality survey. Actually, look at the last 5. You will see Lexus at the top of the list. Recognized as the most reliable and dependable luxury brand, Lexus builds vehicles that never let you down. If you want technology without the headaches, and luxury without the problems, the Lexus lineup including the 2019 Lexus IS will stand out.