The EPA Releases Fuel Economy Numbers for the IS 200t and IS 300

2016 Lexus IS 200t (Credit: © Lexus)

The entire Lexus IS lineup has never really been the posterchild for fuel economy, as it has mostly hovered in the middle of the pack thanks to its V-6 engines. Now, with the 2016 model year to bring about the first four-cylinder-powered IS, we are set to see new heights in fuel economy for the luxury sedan.

Recently released fuel economy ratings put the base IS 200t at 22 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. While that is nothing outrageous for a turbocharged four-cylinder, it is a significant boost over the 21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined that the underwhelming IS 250 delivered.

The IS 200t also has a nice power increase when compared to the IS 250. This new boosted IS puts out 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of twist, while the IS 250 could only muster up 204 ponies and 185 pound-feet.

For buyers looking the base all-wheel-drive version of the IS, you’ll need to bump up to the new-for-2016 IS 300 AWD. This model uses a detuned version of the brand’s 3.5-liter engine instead of the old 2.5-liter.  This engine delivers a healthy boost in power relative to the old IS 250 AWD, but it also delivers slightly lower fuel economy at 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The IS 200t and IS 300 are both available for order now. The IS 200t starts from $37,325 and the IS 300 bases from $39,700. Both models have F Sport versions available for a little extra scratch, as the IS 200t F Sport starts at $40,870 and the IS 300 F Sport starts from $42,845.