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2013 Lexus IS Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Cathleen V | March 31, 2025

The 2013 Lexus IS represents the second generation of Lexus's popular entry-level luxury sport sedan. Available as a sedan and a convertible (IS 250C and IS 350C), this model year offered a blend of luxury, reliability, and engaging driving dynamics. Key trims included the IS 250, IS 350, and their respective "F Sport" variants. Pricing ranged from around $35,000 to $45,000 when new. Its reputation for dependability and refined interior made it a popular choice.

The Good

The 2013 Lexus IS boasts strong reliability, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and a sleek, sporty design. Practical buyers will appreciate its dependability and strong resale value. Emotional buyers are drawn to its responsive handling, luxurious feel, and the prestige associated with the Lexus brand. The available F Sport package enhances the driving experience.

The Bad

The 2013 Lexus IS, while generally reliable, can suffer from carbon buildup issues in the IS 250's engine, particularly if maintenance is neglected. The rear seats are somewhat cramped, and the infotainment system feels dated compared to newer rivals. Watch out for excessive oil consumption and ensure regular maintenance has been performed. The IS 250 can feel underpowered to some.

2013 Lexus IS: Quick Overview

Engine Options:
- 2.5L V6 (IS 250): 204 horsepower
- 3.5L V6 (IS 350): 306 horsepower
Horsepower:
- IS 250: 204 hp
- IS 350: 306 hp
Fuel Economy (MPG):
- IS 250 (RWD): 21 City / 30 Highway
- IS 350 (RWD): 19 City / 27 Highway
- IS 250 (AWD): 21 City / 29 Highway
- IS 350 (AWD): 19 City / 26 Highway
0-60 Times:
- IS 250: Around 7.9 seconds
- IS 350: Around 5.3 seconds
Towing Capacity: Not applicable; the Lexus IS is not designed for towing.
Trim-Level Features:
- IS 250 (Base): Leather upholstery, power front seats, moonroof, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, premium sound system with satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity.
- IS 350 (Base): Includes IS 250 features plus a more powerful engine, larger brakes, and paddle shifters.
- IS 250/350 F Sport: Unique exterior styling, sport-tuned suspension, sport seats, aluminum pedals, unique interior trim, and upgraded brakes on the IS 350.
- Optional Features: Navigation system, Mark Levinson premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring.

2013 Lexus IS Specifications

Vehicle Information

Year	2013
Make	Lexus
Model	IS
Trim	-
Style	-
Type	Sedan
Category	Subcompact Car

Manufacturing Details

Made In	Japan
Manufacturing City	TAHARA

Dimensions

Doors	4-Door
Curb Weight	1656.06 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating	-
Overall Height	-
Overall Length	-
Overall Width	-
Wheelbase Length	-
Standard Seating	-

Engine & Performance

Engine	4GR-FSE
Engine Size	2.5L
Engine Cylinders	6
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type	Automatic
Transmission Speeds	6-Speed
Drivetrain	All-Wheel Drive

Additional Features

Anti-Brake System	-
Steering Type	-

Pricing

Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)	$37,525 USD
Invoice Price	$34,898 USD
Delivery Charges	$910 USD

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What Problems Does the 2013 Lexus IS Have?

The 2013 Lexus IS is generally considered reliable, but some issues have been reported. The most common concern, particularly for the IS 250, is carbon buildup on the intake valves. This can lead to rough idling, decreased performance, and potential engine damage if not addressed. Using high-quality fuel and performing regular maintenance, including cleaning the intake valves, can help mitigate this issue.
Recalls for the 2013 IS were relatively limited. Check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the IS 250 engine's propensity for carbon buildup. The IS 350 is generally more robust in this regard. Some owners have reported issues with the navigation system and other electronic components, but these are less common. Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity are crucial. Premature wear of brake components is also possible if the vehicle is driven aggressively, especially the F-Sport models. Addressing these issues proactively ensures that the vehicle remains reliable over the long term.

How long will the 2013 Lexus IS last?

A 2013 Lexus IS, with proper maintenance, can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report consistent reliability beyond 10 years of service. Factors influencing longevity include adherence to scheduled maintenance, driving habits, and climate. As mentioned earlier, the IS 250's engine is a potential weak point due to carbon buildup. The IS 350, with its more powerful and less stressed engine, tends to be more durable in the long run. Expect potential repairs related to suspension components and rubber seals as the vehicle ages, but overall, the Lexus IS is known for its above-average reliability.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 Lexus IS comes standard with a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features include a premium sound system with satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The infotainment system, while functional, is not as intuitive or modern as systems found in newer vehicles. Optional features include a navigation system, a Mark Levinson premium sound system (highly regarded for its audio quality), adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring.
Safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain). Driver-assistance features, like lane departure warning and pre-collision systems, were not widely available on this model year.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) should be consulted for a complete safety assessment. Generally, the 2013 Lexus IS performed well in crash tests, earning favorable ratings for occupant protection. Note that ratings can vary based on specific trim levels and testing methodologies.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors

Starfire Pearl

Obsidian

Silver Lining Metallic

Tungsten Pearl

Matador Red Mica

Deep Sea Mica

Interior Colors

Black Leather

Light Gray Leather

Ecru Leather

Rioja Red Leather

2013 Lexus IS Prices and Market Value

The 2013 Lexus IS had a starting MSRP of around $35,000 for the IS 250 and approximately $40,000 for the IS 350 when new. Current used market prices typically range from $12,000 to $20,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. Depreciation has been moderate, reflecting the Lexus brand's strong reputation for reliability and resale value. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and whether it's an IS 250 or the more desirable IS 350. Models with the F Sport package tend to command a premium as well.

2013 Lexus IS Cost of Ownership

The 2013 Lexus IS generally offers moderate ownership costs. Insurance rates are typically average for the luxury sport sedan segment. Fuel costs depend on driving habits and the engine choice (IS 250 is more fuel-efficient). Maintenance costs are reasonable, thanks to Lexus's reliability. However, repairs can be more expensive than those for domestic brands due to the cost of parts. Long-term, the IS 350 may be slightly more expensive to own due to higher fuel consumption, while the IS 250 may require carbon buildup maintenance. Overall, it's not the most economical, but not excessively costly to own either.

2013 Lexus IS Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline (Required)

Fuel Capacity 64.73 liters

City Mileage 8.93 km/l

Highway Mileage 11.48 km/l

2013 Lexus IS Safety Rating

IIHS

Roof Strength Test Results Acceptable

Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Acceptable

Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good

Side Impact Test Results Good

2013 Lexus IS Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

Recall date 2019-01-09

Recall no. 19v005000

Source NHTSA

Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2014-2016 Toyota 4runner, 2014-2015 Scion XB, Lexus Is350c, Is250c, 2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus Is-f, and 2014-2017 Lexus Gx460 Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Toyota IS Also Recalling Certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus Is250, Is350, 2011-2016 4runner, 2011-2015 Scion XB, Lexus Is350c, Is250c, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus Is-f, 2011-2017 Lexus Gx460, and 2011-2012 Lexus Es350 Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." Toyota IS Also Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus Is350, 2010-2016 4runner, 2010-2013 Lexus Is250, 2010-2015 Scion XB, Lexus Is350c, Is250c, 2010-2017 Lexus Gx460, 2010-2014 Lexus Is-f, and 2010-2012 Lexus Es350 Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment (such AS After A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Replacement OF THE Original AIR Bags), That MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.

Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.

Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners. Depending ON THE Vehicle Model, Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, or Replace THE AIR BAG Assembly. THE Recall Began February 15, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE "zone A" Toyota: G0p, Lexus: Glg; "zone B" Toyota: G0r, Lexus Glh; "zone C" Toyota: H0a, and Lexus: Hla.

Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

Recall date 2018-01-09

Recall no. 18v024000

Source NHTSA

Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2013 Scion XB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, 4runner, Lexus Is250, Is350, Is250c, Is350c, Is-F, and Gx460 Vehicles Sold, Ever Registered, IN THE States OF AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, THE MP (Saipan), and THE U.s. VI or "zone A." Toyota IS Also Recalling Certain 2010 Scion XB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, 4runner, Lexus Is250, Is350, Is250c, Is350c, Es350, Is-F, Gx460, and Pontiac Vibe Vehicles Sold, Ever Registered, IN THE States OF AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "zone B." Toyota IS Also Recalling Certain 2009 Scion XB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Lexus Is250, Is350, Es350, Is-f, and Pontiac Vibe Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "zone C." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.

Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.

Remedy Toyota Will Notify THE Toyota, Scion and Lexus Owners. General Motors Will Contact THE Pontiac Owners. Depending ON THE Vehicle Model, Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, or Replace THE AIR BAG Assembly. THE Recall Began ON January 29, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331, or Pontiac Customer Service AT 1-800-762-2737. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE "zone A" Toyota: G0p, Lexus: Glg; "zone B" Toyota: G0r, Lexus Glh; "zone C" Toyota: H0a, and Lexus: Hla.

Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.