5 Cheap Lexus Models That Let You Live Luxuriously on the Low
Everyone wants a cheap thrill, but these Lexus models are much more than that. They’re fun, fancy, affordable, and carry the signature Lexus reliability.
There’s no shortage of buying advice for a cheap car floating around on the internet. In tandem, there’s no shortage of folks telling you that buying a used luxury car is a financial death wish. That doesn’t necessarily have to be true, though. After all, Lexus is routinely among conversations as one of the most reliable car brands outright. J.D. Power awarded Lexus its dependability award in both 2023 and 2024.
With that knowledge, let’s dive into some awesome used Cheap Lexus models that’ll land you a lavish experience without breaking the bank. We’ve strategically picked models spanning in price from around $5,000 to about $15,000.
Third-Generation Lexus IS 250 (2014-Present)
Yes! The current generation of Lexus IS is nearing ten years old. It’s hard to believe it’s been that long, but it’s easy to see why not much has changed. With current models as context, even the 2014 model year looks very modern and stylish.
With a rev-happy 204 horsepower 2.5-liter V6 engine under the hood and plush leather and wood interior materials with passenger room to spare, it’s a killer blend of sport and luxury. One 2015 Sport model sold recently on eBay Motors for just $9,600 with a clean title.
Fourth-Generation LS 460 (2006-2009)
The LS is, of course, the pinnacle of the luxurious Lexus experience. With the modern LS 500’s starting price of around $80,000, it’s easy to think you’d have to step back pretty far to get an affordable one. Fortunately, regardless of age, the engineering and dedication to the LS namesake is consistently exquisite throughout history.
For between $10,000 and $15,000, you can routinely find a 2006-2009 Lexus LS 460 in great shape. It’s big, it’s plush, and best of all, it’s got a V8 under the hood. What’s not to love?
Second-Generation SC 430 (2001-2010)
If you want V8 power but take your roaring DOHC symphony with a side of sports car, the SC 430 is your answer. With 288 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque, and the option to throw the roof down, a Lexus SC 430 is virtually guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
If you’re okay with a little maintenance and upkeep, you can find earlier SC models for well below $10,000 with fairly high mileage. Fortunately, because of this model’s 10-year run, there are virtually unlimited offerings with varying mileage and options. We just wish they came with a manual transmission.
First-Generation IS 300 (1999-2003)
The first-gen Lexus IS 300 is the butter zone between performance, luxury, and driving enjoyment. It’s got the basics you’d want out of a luxury sedan. Furthermore, it also has the iconic 2JZ inline-six under the hood. Best of all, it was available with a manual transmission.
If you dig deep enough, you can find decent examples of these IS 300s for under $5,000. However, if you want to spring for a manual one, you’re going to be closer to the $10,000 mark these days.
First Generation LS 400 (1990-1994)
How couldn’t the first-gen LS 400 make this list? It’s not just a Lexus; it’s THE Lexus. The one that started it all. Toyota spent over $1 Billion developing this car, and it deserves to remain atop Lexus-related lists for the rest of time.
With luxury features rivaling the likes of not only Mercedes and BMW, the Lexus LS 400 even touched on features that kept up with the likes of Bentley and Rolls Royce. It’s unbelievably quiet and unbelievably comfortable, and you’ll find it unbelievable that you’re in a nearly 30-year-old car.
Low mileage examples are now fetching north of $10,000. You can still find them for phenomenal deals below the $5,000 mark if you’re careful enough.
Overall, buying a used Lexus is rarely a bad call. Just remember to cross the Ts and dot the Is to ensure it’s been well taken care of. Any one of these models will certainly make you a proud Lexus owner!
Photos: Lexus
