Lexus Sedan Models: All Your Questions Answered

Gilbert Smith
Dec 15, 2020

When someone says they have a Lexus, you’re picturing Lexus sedan models. They offer more than just sedans, but those sedans offer that classic Lexus look and feel. Ford has trucks, Nissan has hatchbacks, and Lexus has the sedan as their flagship model.

What sedan models does Lexus make?

  • IS: $40,598 – $50,097 
  • ES: $39,900 – $50,810 
  • GS: $51,065 – $55,155 
  • LS: $73,074 – $83,577

IS: $40,598 – $50,097

The IS is an entry-level Lexus sedan, with prices starting at under $41,000. But it’s far from basic. A Lexus is still a Lexus. The IS will deliver the full Lexus sedan experience at about half the price of a fully decked-out Lexus LS.

Silver 2020 Lexus IS - The entry-level Lexus sedan model

Key features include optional heated bucket seats up front with NuLuxe trim, one-touch power windows, remote keyless entry, and a full suite of safety features like driveline traction control and Lexus Enform Safety Connect Emergency SOS.

And of course, streaming audio, Bluetooth connectivity, and an LCD monitor.

Basic Specs:

  • MPG City/Highway: 21/30
  • Engine: 241 horsepower 2.0L Turbo I4 DOHC 16V Dual VVT/260 horsepower 3.5L V6 DOHC 24V Dual VVT
  • Transmission: 6 Speed Automatic w/OD
  • 0-60: 10.1 seconds

Safety Ratings:

  • NHTSA: 5-Stars
  • IIHS: Good

ES: $39,900 – $50,810

In previous years, the ES was regarded as a bit of a disappointment. Still a Lexus, but sort of a pointless middle ground between the entry-level IS and the high-end LS, without the sporty features of the GS. The ES redesign has made it a contender.

Blue 2020 es From Front-Driver Side

The hybrid “h” trim levels are a big draw, of course, but so are the perforated NuLuxe seats, leather and metal-look trim, and Lexus ten-speaker premium sound system. The new ES is stylish, hip, modern and efficient.

Basic Specs:

  • MPG City/Highway: 22/32 or 43/44 for hybrid
  • Engine: 302 horsepower 3.5L V6 DOHC 24V Dual VVT/hybrid 2.5L I4 DOHC 16V VVT
  • Transmission: 8 Speed Automatic w/OD or 1 Speed CVT for hybrid
  • 0-60: 6.6 seconds

Safety Ratings:

  • NHTSA: 5-Stars
  • IIHS: Good

GS: $51,065 – $55,155

A Lexus that drives like a sports car. With the 18×8 inch five-spoke alloy wheels and sun visor, it looks the part, too. But it’s definitely a Lexus with those speed sensitive wipers and genuine wood panel instrument trim.

White 2020 Lexus GS From Driver Side

You can upgrade to an 8-speed sequential shift transmission in the Sport S and Sport S+. You get a beautiful stainless steel exhaust, and you can choose rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. This is a Lexus with some racecar edge to it.

Basic Specs:

  • MPG City/Highway: 20/28
  • Engine: 3.5L V6 24V DOHC
  • Transmission: 6 Speed Automatic w/OD
  • 0-60: 5.8 seconds

Safety Ratings:

  • NHTSA: Not yet rated
  • IIHS: Good

LS: $73,074 – $83,577

To many drivers, the LS is the Lexus. Everything’s heated and covered in leather. You get the Lexus Enform App Suite 2.0, aluminum, wood and metal-look interior trim. Plus that iconic LS body. Every inch of the LS says Lexus.

Black 2020 Lexus LS From Front Side - The ultimate Lexus sedan model

The car comes with a top-of-the-line Lexus Premium audio system with twelve speakers and more streaming options than you’ll ever need. There are two LCD monitors, and of course, all the latest safety features like blind-spot monitoring and Lexus Safety System+.

Basic Specs:

  • MPG City/Highway: 19/30
  • Engine: 416 horsepower 3.5L V6 DOHC 24
  • Transmission: 10 Speed Automatic w/OD
  • 0-60: 4.6 seconds

Safety Ratings:

  • NHTSA: Not yet rated
  • IIHS: Good
avatar Gilbert Smith
Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.
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