J.D. Power conducted a vehicle dependability study to determine which car brands were the least problematic. Lexus earned the title of most reliable car brand based on problems per 100 cars.
Lexus’ most affordable model is the UX hybrid subcompact luxury SUV. If you aren’t interested in SUVs, Lexus also produces luxury sedan options that are reliable, stylish and offer solid performance specs.
Here’s the most affordable luxury four-door car from J.D. Power’s most reliable car brand.
The 2026 Lexus IS Is the Most Affordable Sedan From the Most Reliable Brand
Lexus’ IS is the Japanese luxury brand’s entry-level sedan. It starts at $46,795.
The average new vehicle price is upwards of $49,000, according to February reporting from Kelley Blue Book. Lexus’ IS may seem pricey compared with mainstream cars, but it’s a steal for some drivers who want a reliable luxury model.
The 2026 Lexus IS comes in four trims and has two available appearance packages.
2026 Lexus IS Trims
- IS 350 F SPORT DESIGN: $46,795
- IS 350 F SPORT DESIGN AWD: $48,795
- IS 350 F SPORT: $49,245
- IS 350 F SPORT AWD: $51,245
- IS 350 F SPORT SPECIAL APPEARANCE PACKAGE: $61,385
- IS 350 F SPORT SPECIAL APPEARANCE PACKAGE AWD: $62,995
Lexus only has one engine option for the 2026 model year, so the greatest difference between trims is the design and standard features of each respective model. F SPORT AWD models offer the best performance for driving enthusiasts.
2026 Lexus IS Specs and Standard Features
The Lexus IS uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine to produce 311 horsepower, which is great for its size. It achieves 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Lexus’ most affordable sedan comes standard with keyless entry, Lexus NuLuxe synthetic leather interior trim and heated front seats. It also includes a standard wireless charger, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and paddle shifters.
The 2026 Lexus IS is powerful, sporty and loaded with great standard safety and driver assistance technology. Upper trims load up the sedan with even more desirable features, but the base model has plenty to offer.
Should You Get a 2026 Lexus IS?
The 2026 Lexus IS small luxury car is a great choice, but it isn’t the undisputed best model in its segment. Small luxury cars like the 2026 BMW 3-Series and 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class top Edmunds’ list of best luxury compact sedans.
U.S. News & World Report also ranks models like the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class above the Lexus IS. The main reason to choose the 2026 Lexus IS over rivals is its history of reliability. On the other hand, there are more refined and powerful options on the market.
The Lexus IS is a value-oriented affordable luxury car. If you want the best option for the money, it’s worth consideration. If you’re after the boldest, most exciting luxury car, rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz could be more intriguing options.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY network. Contact him at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: This is the cheapest luxury sedan from J.D. Power’s best brand
Reporting by Charles Singh , USA TODAY / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
