Used 2021 Lexus IS for Sale nearWashington, DC
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 260 hp 3.5L V6
- Combined gas mileage:
- 22 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 52,743
- Stock #:
- DPM049150
- VIN:
- JTHD81F27N5049150


Sponsored by Drive Prime Motors - Arlington
2022 Lexus IS
300 AWD
52,743 mi
$34,315
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 22 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- White
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 126,129
- Stock #:
- CC8649
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E25M5018649

Sponsored Listing
2021 Lexus IS
350 F Sport AWD
126,129 mi
$28,994
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- White w/Black
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 85,535
- Stock #:
- 056455
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1B29N5056455

Sponsored Listing
2022 Lexus IS
350 F Sport RWD
85,535 mi
$32,965
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Exterior color:
- Ultra White
- Interior color:
- Circuit Red W/Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 51,190
- Stock #:
- N5026107
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E27N5026107

2022 Lexus IS
350 F SPORT 2 AWD
51,190 mi
$39,500
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Ultra White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- White W/Black
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 64,997
- Stock #:
- 50383A
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1B22N5050383

-$7,229
2022 Lexus IS
350 F Sport RWD
64,997 mi
$44,264
$37,035
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 241 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Red/Black
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 115,004
- Stock #:
- 116414
- VIN:
- JTHCA1D29M5116414

2021 Lexus IS
300 RWD
115,004 mi
$22,366
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- CREAM
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 78,895
- Stock #:
- 70272322
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1B26M5043113

2021 Lexus IS
350 F Sport RWD
78,895 mi
$33,997
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 22 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- White
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 126,129
- Stock #:
- CC8649
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E25M5018649

2021 Lexus IS
350 F Sport AWD
126,129 mi
$28,994
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Black (Caviar)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 22 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 47,184
- Stock #:
- 62J0167A
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E24L5017541

2020 Lexus IS
350 AWD
47,184 mi
$34,650
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Red
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 86,734
- Stock #:
- 036741
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1B22L5036741

2020 Lexus IS
350 RWD
86,734 mi
$27,570
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 260 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Ultra White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 21 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Rioja Red
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 70,273
- Stock #:
- K70083B
- VIN:
- JTHG81F28L5041262

2020 Lexus IS
300 AWD
70,273 mi
$28,797
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 241 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 105,060
- Stock #:
- B120819
- VIN:
- JTHDA1D23N5120819

2022 Lexus IS
300 RWD
105,060 mi
$27,108
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 60,061
- Stock #:
- M43173S
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E25N5024274

2022 Lexus IS
350 F SPORT 2 AWD
60,061 mi
$41,472
CarGurus Analysis:
2021 Lexus IS
With 70 currently listed for sale near Washington, DC and an average price of $28,542, 34.3% of 2021 Lexus IS models for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 Lexus IS 4.62 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 7.33 / 10.
100.0% of 2021 Lexus IS models on CarGurus are accident free.
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 241 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black W/Black Metallic Trim Eb21
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 107,103
- Stock #:
- 4229
- VIN:
- JTHAA1D29N5119614

2022 Lexus IS
300 RWD
107,103 mi
$25,205
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 241 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Red
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 97,974
- Stock #:
- MAS-114114
- VIN:
- JTHAA1D2XM5114114

2021 Lexus IS
300 RWD
97,974 mi
$27,258
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Exterior color:
- Blue Mica
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 32,343
- Stock #:
- N5026483P
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E22N5026483

2022 Lexus IS
350 F SPORT 2 AWD
32,343 mi
$44,183
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 241 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Cloudburst Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Rioja Red 31
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 55,587
- Stock #:
- P3013
- VIN:
- JTHCA1D2XM5109455

2021 Lexus IS
300 RWD
55,587 mi
$30,560
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 260 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- White Pearl
- Combined gas mileage:
- 22 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Glazed Caramel
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 55,176
- Stock #:
- H61537A
- VIN:
- JTHC81F27M5046260

2021 Lexus IS
300 AWD
55,176 mi
$32,789
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Exterior color:
- Atomic Silver
- Interior color:
- Circuit Red w/Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 30,017
- Stock #:
- U8745A
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E24N5026999

-$1,000
2022 Lexus IS
350 F SPORT 2 AWD
30,017 mi
$43,299
$42,299
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 22 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 95,656
- Stock #:
- 021273
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1E21M5021273

2021 Lexus IS
350 F Sport AWD
95,656 mi
$30,764
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Ultra White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- White
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 59,327
- Stock #:
- 5122A
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1B27M5041239

2021 Lexus IS
350 F Sport RWD
59,327 mi
$37,831
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 311 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- White w/Black
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 85,535
- Stock #:
- 056455
- VIN:
- JTHGZ1B29N5056455

2022 Lexus IS
350 F Sport RWD
85,535 mi
$32,965
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Lexus
- Model:
- IS
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 241 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Red/Black
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 115,004
- Stock #:
- 116414
- VIN:
- JTHCA1D29M5116414

Sponsored Listing
2021 Lexus IS
300 RWD
115,004 mi
$22,366
CarGurus Analysis: 2021 Lexus IS
overall

Summary
With 70 currently listed for sale near Washington, DC and an average price of $28,542, 34.3% of 2021 Lexus IS models for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 Lexus IS 4.62 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 7.33 / 10.
100.0% of 2021 Lexus IS models on CarGurus are accident free.
Why it stands out
The 2021 Lexus IS stands out as a compact luxury sports sedan with a sharper sense of purpose than many buyers might expect. Lexus says it amps up the model for a new generation, and the car is described as entering its fourth generation of production while drawing lessons from the LC and RC. It is aimed at enthusiast drivers and luxury shoppers who might otherwise think German first, which helps define the IS as a car built to change expectations rather than simply follow them.
Its strongest appeal comes from the combination of stylish design, multiple powertrain options, and great handling. Those traits make it attractive to buyers who want a sedan that feels more engaging than purely comfort-focused alternatives. At the same time, the 2021 Lexus IS is not without drawbacks: the base engine is described as underwhelming, the transmission as irritating, and the technology as outdated. That mix gives the car a clear personality — appealing for its looks and driving character, but less convincing if a buyer prioritizes the latest tech or a more polished powertrain experience.
Owners’ impressions generally reinforce that balance. Reviewers praise the stylish design, sporty feel, luxurious feel, handling, safety features, and value for money, while some are disappointed by the lack of certain modern tech features such as real-time GPS tracking and wireless Apple CarPlay.
Other model years to consider
- Average price: $32,338
- Good/great deal percentage: 34.3%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 108
- Average price: $17,407
- Good/great deal percentage: 17.1%
- User rating: 4.6 / 5
- Total listings: 111
- Average price: $38,470
- Good/great deal percentage: 31.5%
- User rating: 4.8 / 5
- Total listings: 127
This analysis is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 28, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
4.7 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Amy N
Reviewed a 2021 Lexus IS on Aug 14, 2021
Great car, stylish, good value, sporty, and gorgeous to look at. I love the safety and security features. Remote start and speed settings in the app are great features. Missing- GPS tracking in real-time would be great like Tesla vehicles.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 2021 Lexus IS on Feb 11, 2023
This really has a sporty feel. The AWD, 3.5 Liter V6 is definitely the way to go on this vehicle. The Apple Car Play is incredible and makes the GPS option unnecessary. The gauge cluster looks modern and easy to use. The 360 degree cameras are also a great option. The exterior look of this car is beautiful. I have the matador red which is metallic red with the black 19” wheel rims. Very stylish. A very nice riding car.
Robert O
Reviewed a 2021 Lexus IS on Jan 15, 2024
Great car. Luxury , economy, and style. Rides smooth & fast. Mechanically reliable. Lexus is the best!
Jason M
Reviewed a 2021 Lexus IS on Apr 21, 2023
Im a bit partial because mine has every option available. The premium sound package is worth every penny. I hear its bad on gas. I have the AWD V6 which is plenty fast, so I drive it in eco full time. I get 100 miles on 15 dollars of gas @ 3.30 a gallon. Thats bad? Brakes in this car are amazing. They work along with the computer downshifting on hills perfectly. Anyone who has driven a standard before will notice it too. Its just great stock ecu tuning. Not to mention the brakes act in unison with the AWD. The car does not move in the snow (in a good way). Meaning there is no slipping, sliding or the car trying to get traction. It just goes. Also, thanks to the amazing braking system, there is also no real type of sliding when slowing down or stopping. I live in New England, so my car has seen weather of all types. Bad weather is a non factor. With all that being said, I also have snow tires. Which doesnt hurt and helps tremendously. Fun fact, the snow mode also works great during heavy rain.. just a fyi. Lets see. Its quiet, comfortable and the touch screen is perfect. The body lines are also spot on. There is ZERO wind noise. It looks like it spent a lot of time wind tunnel tested. I personally love the lines of the car and the daytime running lights are the best.. hands down. The back Robocop style taillight has been copied by many. The subtle red on the leds nail it. Not to mention the subtilties of just light things. A lot of attention to detail. Lexus listened to its consumers and said we hear you and well work on that. Which, honestly, you have to appreciate. Great car.. Thank you Lexus.
2021 Lexus IS Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 350 F Sport AWD | $44,950 |
| 350 F Sport RWD | $42,950 |
| 300 AWD | $41,050 |
| 300 RWD | $39,050 |
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
2021 Lexus IS Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 2021 Lexus IS prices has changed over time.
See more price trends2021 Lexus IS Pricing Analysis: Washington, DC Market Report
Pricing in Nearby Cities
Market Area: Washington, DC
Key Insights
- Highest-Price Market: The Lancaster, PA market leads with an average price of $36,098, indicating a premium demand in that area.
- Best Value: The Fredericksburg, VA market offers the lowest average price at $28,159, presenting a significant opportunity for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Inventory Drives Stability: The Hanover, PA area has the most listings at 69, suggesting a stable supply that may help maintain competitive pricing.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hanover, PA | 69 | $35,493 |
| Lancaster, PA | 69 | $36,098 |
| Fredericksburg, VA | 67 | $28,159 |
| Manassas, VA | 65 | $28,159 |
| Baltimore, MD | 63 | $28,847 |
| Newark, DE | 62 | $34,301 |
Pricing by Trim Packages
Key Insights
- Volume Leader: The 300 RWD trim is the most available with 65 listings, indicating strong consumer interest in this configuration.
- Premium Spread: The 350 F Sport AWD trim, priced at $44,950, represents the highest MSRP, highlighting a premium segment for performance-oriented buyers.
- Drivetrain Effect: The average prices for AWD trims are generally higher, with the 300 AWD priced at $41,050, reflecting the added value of all-wheel drive.
Trim-Level Details
| Trim | Listings | MSRP | Drivetrain | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 RWD | 65 | $39,050 | RWD | 2.0L 241 hp I4 |
| 350 F Sport RWD | 42 | $42,950 | RWD | 3.5L 311 hp V6 |
| 300 AWD | 51 | $41,050 | AWD | 3.5L 260 hp V6 |
| 350 F Sport AWD | 22 | $44,950 | AWD | 3.5L 311 hp V6 |
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- New-Car Premium: The 2026 model year shows a 14.3% premium over its starting MSRP, indicating strong demand for newer models.
- Depreciation Curve: The 2016 model year has experienced the steepest depreciation at -51.0%, suggesting significant value loss for older models.
- Best Value Sweet Spot: The 2021 model year is priced at an average of $28,542, which is the lowest average price among the years, making it an attractive option for buyers.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Starting MSRP | Avg Price | Avg Price vs Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $45,500 | $52,000 | +14.3% |
| 2025 | $40,535 | $48,338 | +19.3% |
| 2024 | $40,085 | $50,134 | +25.1% |
| 2023 | $40,085 | $38,616 | -3.7% |
| 2022 | $39,125 | $33,042 | -15.5% |
| 2021 | $39,050 | $28,542 | -26.9% |
| 2020 | $38,560 | $27,000 | -30.0% |
| 2019 | $38,560 | $24,413 | -36.7% |
| 2018 | $38,210 | $21,102 | -44.8% |
| 2017 | $37,825 | $20,551 | -45.7% |
| 2016 | $37,325 | $18,285 | -51.0% |
| 2015 | $36,550 | $18,634 | -49.0% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 30, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
How much does the 2021 Lexus IS cost?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Average Price | $34,670 |
| Year-Round Low | $33,108 |
| Year-Round High | $35,501 |
| Average Price a Year Ago | $34,087 |
| Change vs. Last Year | +1.71% |
Prices are up 1.71% year-over-year — a sign of continued demand for this model year.
There are 529 listings available, which gives you a modest amount of inventory to compare.
Is the 2021 Lexus IS a good car?
Yes — the 4.62/5 user rating points to strong owner satisfaction, and the expert rating is 7.33/10. The model scores 8/10 across Look and feel and Cost effectiveness.
Owners repeatedly praise the stylish design, sporty feel, luxurious feel, handling, and value for money. That lines up with the car’s role as a compact luxury sports sedan aimed at drivers who want something more engaging than a comfort-first commuter.
The trade-offs are clear: the base engine is described as underwhelming, the transmission as irritating, and the technology as outdated. If you want a sedan that emphasizes character, design, and driving feel over the latest interface polish, the IS fits that brief well.
With 34.0% of listings marked as good or great deals, there is still room to shop selectively.
Is the 2021 Lexus IS reliable?
Owners rate it 4.62/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.
The owner feedback also points to a car that feels reliable, dependable, and trouble-free enough to inspire confidence over time. Lexus’ reputation for quality and reliability reinforces that impression, and the ownership experience is helped by the brand’s long-term support features.
The expert evaluation also emphasizes Lexus’ quality-and-reliability reputation and notes that the IS comes well equipped without becoming overly complicated. The included maintenance and service connectivity features add convenience for ownership planning.
For used buyers, the main long-term risk is less about outright durability and more about whether the car’s tech and powertrain feel dated enough to bother you over time.
What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Lexus IS?
At 72.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
You should start with a vehicle history report and then prioritize a careful pre-purchase inspection. Focus on body condition, panel alignment, tire wear, brake condition, and evidence of prior repair quality, especially if the car has been in an incident.
Key things to evaluate:
- Trim level: The IS 300 RWD emphasizes the rear-wheel-drive setup, while the IS 300 AWD adds all-wheel drive and the IS 350 versions bring more power. The base setup is the one most likely to leave you wanting more if you care about stronger performance.
- Powertrain: The IS 300 RWD uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The IS 300 AWD uses a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 with 260 hp and 236 lb-ft, while the IS 350 models use the same V6 tuned to 311 hp and 280 lb-ft. Fuel economy ranges from 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined for the IS 300 RWD to 19/26/22 for the AWD versions.
- Safety package: Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 is standard and includes pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, low-light pedestrian detection, daytime bicyclist detection, left-turn intersection support, lane-departure warning with steering assist, road-sign recognition, enhanced lane-tracing assist, full-speed dynamic adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is also included.
- Infotainment: The IS finally gets a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Lexus Enform Safety Connect comes with a three-year trial, Service Connect comes with a 10-year complimentary subscription, and Remote is free for three years.
- Fuel efficiency: The EPA estimates 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined for the IS 300 RWD; 19/26/22 for the IS 300 AWD; 20/28/23 for the IS 350 RWD; and 19/26/22 for the IS 350 AWD.
Which 2021 Lexus IS trim should I buy?
The 2021 Lexus IS is offered in 4 trim levels: IS 300 RWD, IS 300 AWD, IS 350 RWD F Sport, IS 350 AWD F Sport.
Here's the short version:
- IS 300 RWD: This is the least expensive way into the lineup and the best fit if you want the core IS experience at the lowest price. It gives you the rear-wheel-drive setup and the strongest fuel economy in the range, but it is also the version most likely to feel modest if you want more punch.
- IS 300 AWD: Choose this if you want all-weather traction and prefer the smoother, naturally aspirated V6 character over the turbo four. It costs more than the RWD version, so it makes the most sense if AWD matters to you.
- IS 350 RWD F Sport: This is the best-value choice if you want the sharper performance personality the IS is known for. It adds the stronger V6 tune and the F Sport treatment, making it the most compelling pick for enthusiasts who still want a relatively balanced price.
- IS 350 AWD F Sport: Pick this if you want the strongest all-around performance with AWD traction and are willing to pay for it. It is the most expensive trim, so it suits buyers who want the fullest version of the IS without compromise.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 is standard across the lineup, so you do not need to move up trims for the core driver-assistance suite.
Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Lexus IS?
This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop carefully without expecting deep bargain-bin conditions.
- Deal availability: 34.0% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Inventory: There are 529 listings available.
- Price trend: Prices are up 1.71% year-over-year.
- Clean inventory: 72.8% of listings are accident-free.
If you find a listing below $33,108, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.
What is the 2021 Lexus IS's resale value?
The current average of $34,670 sits slightly above last year's $34,087.
That year-over-year increase suggests the market has held up reasonably well, which is a positive sign if you plan to sell later. It also means you are not buying into a model that appears to be rapidly losing value.
Because prices are already above last year’s level, a clean, well-kept example should remain easier to move than one with visible wear or a questionable history. Strong condition and a good equipment mix should matter more when it is time to resell.
Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.62/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.
Is the 2021 Lexus IS safe?
The 2021 Lexus IS hasn’t yet been rated for crashworthiness by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), nor has it received an overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
It earns a 7/10 safety score from our experts.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 is standard and includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, low-light pedestrian detection, daytime bicyclist detection, and left-turn intersection support, plus lane-departure warning with steering assist, road-sign recognition, enhanced lane-tracing assist, full-speed dynamic adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, a backup camera with dynamic gridlines, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect are also included.
The main caveat is that the car lacks formal crash-test results in the provided data, so you should lean more heavily on the standard safety equipment and the condition of any used example you consider.
Should I buy a 2021 Lexus IS or consider a different year?
If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:
Choose the 2021 if:
- 34.0% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- At 72.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
- Price trend: Prices are up 1.71% year-over-year.
- Owners rate it 4.62/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
- The 2021 marks the IS’s fourth generation and brings a sharper, more athletic direction.
Consider the 2022 if:
- At $37,519, the 2022 costs more than the current year's $34,670 average.
- It adds the new IS 500 F Sport Performance with a V8 and much stronger performance.
The bottom line: Choose the 2021 if you want the better price and the refreshed fourth-generation character without stretching your budget. If performance is your top priority and you can spend more, the 2022 is the stronger enthusiast pick.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 29, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
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