Skip to main content

2006
Lexus IS 250

Starts at:
$29,990
Shop options
New 2006 Lexus IS 250
See ratings
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Shop Cars.com
Browse cars & save your favorites
Dealers near you
Find & contact a dealership near you
no listings

We're not finding any listings in your area.
Change your location or search Cars.com to see more!

Change location

Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Sport Sdn Manual
    Starts at
    $29,990
    20 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sport Sdn Auto
    Starts at
    $31,160
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sport Sdn AWD Auto
    Starts at
    $34,285
    22 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250 2006 Lexus IS 250

The good & the bad

This vehicle doesn't have any good or bad insights yet.

Use our comparison tool to look at this model side-by-side with other vehicles or view the full specifications list .

Start your comparison

Expert 2006 Lexus IS 250 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Mark Glover
Full article
our expert's take

How much would you pay for a sporty Lexus?

If you answered $50,000, you certainly know the upscale nature of Toyota’s luxury division. But your guess would be about $15,000 to $20,000 too rich when pondering the tested 2006 Lexus IS 250 luxury sport sedan.

An IS 250 with a six-speed manual starts at 10 bucks short of $30,000. A top-tier IS 250 with all-wheel drive – the tested model – starts at $34,285.

OK, that’s not pocket change. But considering that a Lexus SC 430 convertible goes for more than $65,000 these days, a Lexus bearing a sticker price around $35,000 deserves a close look.

Lexus know this; that’s why it builds the IS 250 and markets it as an entry-level bargain for folks who like the brand but whose budgets might not normally absorb a pricey Lexus purchase.

The IS 250 is a pretty impressive package for the price.

It looks good, with elegant, sporty lines – a classic wedge with an abrupt chop at the back bumper. The car’s exterior skin is flared at the wheel wells, a nice, subtle touch.

On the move, the IS 250 cuts through the air smoothly and almost soundlessly. The comparatively small, 2.5-liter V-6 with variable valve timing generates a robust 204 horsepower.

Nailing the accelerator at a standing start does not produce a dragster-like blastoff – the advertised zero-to-60 mph time is a somewhat sedate 8.3 seconds – but the power plant dishes up performance smoothly and forcefully as the seamless, six-speed automatic runs through the gears.

All-wheel-drive handling in the tester was admirable. The IS 250 took on slalom runs, freeway merges, surface-street scoots and uphill climbs with stability and little jarring of driver and passengers.

Steering had that perfect match of responsiveness and feel. For me, that means it was not so light that the car would jump two lanes right or left if I sneezed.

Brakes are a big deal on this car. The standard offering includes electronic brake force distribution and brake-assist. In the tester, the four-wheel discs stopped the IS 250 on a dime, even on slick surfaces. Very nice.

Inside, an attractive dash/center control stack layout was a source of enjoyment. However, three back-seat passengers had to do a little creative leaning and leg folding to approach comfort.

A lengthy list of standard safety features included side-curtain air bags.

What’s not to like? Here’s where it gets relative.

The purchaser of a basic IS 250 must – horror of horrors – manually adjust the steering wheel. And those heated/ventilated seats are going to cost extra.

In fact, a veteran Lexus customer will find that many of the goodies normally included as standard are listed as optional on the IS 250. That’s particularly true in the comfort/convenience department.

This will likely prompt the veteran Lexus driver to ask: Why buy the IS 250 when I can get so much more on other Lexus models?

Good question. But it misses the point.

The IS 250 is not the poor person’s Lexus; it has too much on it to be in that ballpark. But it is a comparatively economical choice for a buyer who wants some of that well-established Lexus flash, reliability and engineering for the price of an upper-end Toyota Camry Solara.

And if the snobs poke fun at you for getting a “bargain” $35,000 Lexus, you can drive to the bank, smiling over the money you’ve saved.

It’s also worth noting that the IS 250 has a more muscular sibling – the IS 350, equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 with 306 horsepower. Lexus touts the zero-to-60 mph trip in that car as a quick 5.6 seconds.

So if performance matters most, make a point of testing the IS 350 and weighing its manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $35,440.

Outside the Lexus loop, the IS 250 also faces competition from BMW’s 3 Series lineup, which includes similarly alluring prices from a luxury/performance automaker.

But in my experience, that kind of Lexus-or-BMW angst is going to occur in relatively few cases. For whatever reason, Lexus fans seem to turn up their noses at BMW cars – and vice versa.

Don’t ask me why; I flunked Upscale Car Sociology & Related Trends 101 when I was in college.

All I know is that my week in the IS 250 produced two memorable impressions: Nice Lexus, nice price.

– – –

The Bee’s Mark Glover can be reached at (916) 321-1184 or mglover@sacbee.com.

2006 Lexus IS 250 review: Our expert's take
By Mark Glover

How much would you pay for a sporty Lexus?

If you answered $50,000, you certainly know the upscale nature of Toyota’s luxury division. But your guess would be about $15,000 to $20,000 too rich when pondering the tested 2006 Lexus IS 250 luxury sport sedan.

An IS 250 with a six-speed manual starts at 10 bucks short of $30,000. A top-tier IS 250 with all-wheel drive – the tested model – starts at $34,285.

OK, that’s not pocket change. But considering that a Lexus SC 430 convertible goes for more than $65,000 these days, a Lexus bearing a sticker price around $35,000 deserves a close look.

Lexus know this; that’s why it builds the IS 250 and markets it as an entry-level bargain for folks who like the brand but whose budgets might not normally absorb a pricey Lexus purchase.

The IS 250 is a pretty impressive package for the price.

It looks good, with elegant, sporty lines – a classic wedge with an abrupt chop at the back bumper. The car’s exterior skin is flared at the wheel wells, a nice, subtle touch.

On the move, the IS 250 cuts through the air smoothly and almost soundlessly. The comparatively small, 2.5-liter V-6 with variable valve timing generates a robust 204 horsepower.

Nailing the accelerator at a standing start does not produce a dragster-like blastoff – the advertised zero-to-60 mph time is a somewhat sedate 8.3 seconds – but the power plant dishes up performance smoothly and forcefully as the seamless, six-speed automatic runs through the gears.

All-wheel-drive handling in the tester was admirable. The IS 250 took on slalom runs, freeway merges, surface-street scoots and uphill climbs with stability and little jarring of driver and passengers.

Steering had that perfect match of responsiveness and feel. For me, that means it was not so light that the car would jump two lanes right or left if I sneezed.

Brakes are a big deal on this car. The standard offering includes electronic brake force distribution and brake-assist. In the tester, the four-wheel discs stopped the IS 250 on a dime, even on slick surfaces. Very nice.

Inside, an attractive dash/center control stack layout was a source of enjoyment. However, three back-seat passengers had to do a little creative leaning and leg folding to approach comfort.

A lengthy list of standard safety features included side-curtain air bags.

What’s not to like? Here’s where it gets relative.

The purchaser of a basic IS 250 must – horror of horrors – manually adjust the steering wheel. And those heated/ventilated seats are going to cost extra.

In fact, a veteran Lexus customer will find that many of the goodies normally included as standard are listed as optional on the IS 250. That’s particularly true in the comfort/convenience department.

This will likely prompt the veteran Lexus driver to ask: Why buy the IS 250 when I can get so much more on other Lexus models?

Good question. But it misses the point.

The IS 250 is not the poor person’s Lexus; it has too much on it to be in that ballpark. But it is a comparatively economical choice for a buyer who wants some of that well-established Lexus flash, reliability and engineering for the price of an upper-end Toyota Camry Solara.

And if the snobs poke fun at you for getting a “bargain” $35,000 Lexus, you can drive to the bank, smiling over the money you’ve saved.

It’s also worth noting that the IS 250 has a more muscular sibling – the IS 350, equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 with 306 horsepower. Lexus touts the zero-to-60 mph trip in that car as a quick 5.6 seconds.

So if performance matters most, make a point of testing the IS 350 and weighing its manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $35,440.

Outside the Lexus loop, the IS 250 also faces competition from BMW’s 3 Series lineup, which includes similarly alluring prices from a luxury/performance automaker.

But in my experience, that kind of Lexus-or-BMW angst is going to occur in relatively few cases. For whatever reason, Lexus fans seem to turn up their noses at BMW cars – and vice versa.

Don’t ask me why; I flunked Upscale Car Sociology & Related Trends 101 when I was in college.

All I know is that my week in the IS 250 produced two memorable impressions: Nice Lexus, nice price.

– – –

The Bee’s Mark Glover can be reached at (916) 321-1184 or mglover@sacbee.com.

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years
Powertrain
6 years / 70,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
2 years / unlimited miles from your certified vehicle date of purchase.
Basic
2 years / unlimited miles from your certified vehicle date of purchase. Coverage begins after completion of the 4-year / 50,000 new vehicle Basic Warranty.
Dealer certification
161-point inspection

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2006
    4.7
    Lexus IS 250
    Starts at
    $29,990
    20 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2010
    4.8
    Lexus IS 250C
    Starts at
    $39,440
    18 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2014
    3.8
    Audi TT
    Starts at
    $39,900
    22 City / 31 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    All-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2002
    4.4
    Toyota Celica
    Starts at
    $17,085
    28 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 1997
    4.7
    Honda Civic
    Starts at
    $10,550
    32 City / 38 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2011
    5.0
    Lexus IS 350C
    Starts at
    $46,640
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2010
    4.6
    Lexus IS 250
    Starts at
    $32,145
    18 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • Compare more options
    Use our comparison tool to add any vehicle of your choice and see a full list of specifications and features side-by-side.
    Try it now

Consumer reviews

4.7 / 5
Based on 39 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.5
Value 4.6
Exterior 4.8
Reliability 4.8

Most recent

  • The first Lexus I've owned and won't be the last

    I've had this car for 7 years and it still goes as well as the day I bought it. A friend drove it the other day and was so impressed he's going to buy one too. The handling and quiet understated design gives me everything I want. Next to buy is the IS350 with a bit more power.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    8 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Perfect for snow

    Me encanta este auto, su lujo interior me deja satisfecho, el desempeno es buenisimo, su aceleracion es tan natural que no se siente para nada forzado, el modo nieve es perfecto para mi que vivo en UT nunca he tenido ningun problema
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Is250 2006 Rear mirror sucks

    I love the car but the rear mirror suck👎🏽I bought the car from a show room at a dealer ship known as county line Lexus. Which no longer in business and no dealer honor repairs done that should have been done.I later learned by law it’s required in all vehicles but this has always had a computer frozen screen in the mirror.but I was informed by other Lexus dealers I would have to pay out of pocket.help I need this mirror my eyes are getting bad it hard to drive at night.Ihave a 2006 is250 84573 miles.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    5 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • This should be about Service- Service was great

    The Service I received on my Lexus was Great. Tyler Morgia did a excellent job with parts and Customer service, as always. New Country of Latham is a great place to buy and service your car or SUV.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Comfortable Ride

    This car was extremely comfortable and smooth. It drives great with strong power with full safety features. The sounds system provided good bass and balance for a fun and vibrant drive.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great car

    I think it's a great car that will be very reliable due to being a Toyota. For the year it comes well equipped with heated and cooled seats, navigation with back up cam. Very comfortable ride.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • First time Lexus owner

    This is my first time buying a Lexus vehicle. It seems to be a quality car that holds it's resale value. I look forward to having it for awhile.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love this car for its functionality and luxury at

    AWESOME CHOICE FOR LUXURY ! AWESOME FOR PRICE! GREAT CAR! LOVE LEXUS! GREAT OVERALL DRIVING EXPERIENCE! LUXURY FOR THE TOYOTA BRAND AND MORE IMPORTANTLY RELIABLE!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Very stylish luxury car

    I love My IS 250. It?s got the power you?d like from a V6 and the look you want from a high end luxury car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • This the 3rd Lexus I?ve purchased! Great cars!

    This was exactly what I wanted! Color, price, miles, etc... I love this car! Very reliable. I would definitely recommend this car! It?s great!!! This my 3rd lexus!!!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Favorite car I owned

    I love this vehicle and can not wait to transform it to exactly how I want it. It will be great to make it the way I want it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Nicest car I've ever owned

    I've never had a Lexus but I am so glad I went out of my comfort zone to buy one. This cars sound system is amazing, the speed is great for a V6, and it's so comfortable and a gorgeous car!! Id buy one again !
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Latest news from cars.com

See all news

Lexus dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2006 Lexus IS 250?

The 2006 Lexus IS 250 is available in 2 trim levels:

  • Auto (2 styles)
  • Manual (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2006 Lexus IS 250?

The 2006 Lexus IS 250 offers up to 20 MPG in city driving and 29 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2006 Lexus IS 250?

The 2006 Lexus IS 250 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2006 Lexus IS 250 reliable?

The 2006 Lexus IS 250 has an average reliability rating of 4.8 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2006 Lexus IS 250 owners.

Is the 2006 Lexus IS 250 a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2006 Lexus IS 250. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.7 / 5
Based on 39 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.5
  • Value: 4.6
  • Exterior: 4.8
  • Reliability: 4.8

Lexus IS 250 history

Your list was successfully saved.
 
 
 
 
Save list Compare
[{"cat":"luxurypassenger_standard","stock_type":"used","bodystyle":"Sedan","page_type":"research/make-model-year","oem_page":false,"search_fuel_types":["Gasoline Fuel"]}]