New Lexus IS or Used GS: Which Is the Better Buy?
Thanks to depreciation, one can pick up a nice used GS these days for cheap, but is it a better option than a brand new Lexus IS?
Though the Lexus GS certainly has its fair share of fans around these parts, ultimately, the luxury brand chose to discontinue the sedan back in August 2020, marking the end of an era that began when the first-gen model debuted for the 1994 model year. It was a sad day for Lexus fans indeed, but then again, we still have a couple of sedans to choose from wearing that same badge. One of them is the more compact Lexus IS, which is still going strong after receiving a refresh for the 2021 model year.
However, with prices of used GS models remaining rather low, it’s worth asking – is it better to try and seek out a clean, low-mile example of that mid-size sedan, or simply head over to one’s local dealer and purchase a brand new Lexus IS, or perhaps even order one in your own preferred spec? This question popped up in the Club Lexus forums recently, and it’s certainly one taking a closer, more detailed look at.
Size Matters
For starters, we must consider the elephant in the room, quite literally – size. The Lexus IS is a compact sedan by definition, measuring in at 185 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 57 inches tall, with 10.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Aside from having a pretty small rear seat that isn’t terribly comfortable for adults, the IS is also noticeably smaller than the GS in certain ways. In fact, the GS is 192.1 inches long, 72.4 inches wide, and 57..3 inches tall, with 18.4 cubic feet of trunk space, meaning that it’s the better choice for someone that needs to haul people in the back seat and carry cargo more frequently.
“I daily an IS, and my biggest wish was that it was bigger as my hair constantly rubs on the headliner,” said ClubLexus member timmy0tool. “I feel cramped with my arms and shoulders too. My dad had a last-gen GS and it was much more comfortable.”
Powertrains
The latest Lexus IS offers a handful of engine options that include a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 241 horsepower in the IS300, along with the 3.5-liter V6 in the IS350 that generates 311 horsepower, with fuel economy ratings ranging from 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway to 19 and 28, respectively. Of course, the real draw is the pricier IS 500 F Sport Performance, which packs a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 making a cool 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque.
As for the last, 2020 model year GS, it only came with one choice – the 3.5-liter V6, which generates 311 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Of course, if you can find a gently used GS F, it’s the one to get, thanks to its number of performance upgrades and desirable 5.0-liter V8 making 467 horsepower and 389 pound-feet of torque.
Features and Amenities
Resting a notch above the IS when it was new, the GS is unsurprisingly better equipped in most regards, as well as more comfortable, according to Club Lexus members that have owned one.
“If you truly need to use the rear seats on a regular basis then GS is much better car The GS interior is much higher quality as well and luxurious feeling,” said RNM GS3.
“I’d go for whichever is the better deal, but all things equal, GS for sure,” added signdetres. “The GS interior is a nicer place to be and the GS got more features standard like three person memory seats, power thigh extension, power side bolsters. The GS also had more features available like power trunk, rear wheel steering, etc.”
New vs Used
Then there’s the topic of buying a used car versus a new one, which can be a deal breaker for some. After all, we know what we’re getting with a new vehicle – along with a factory warranty in the event that something does go wrong – but of course, you’re also paying extra (and suffering depreciation, most likely) at the same time. The good news is, the GS features the typical excellent Lexus build quality and reputation for reliability.
“As much as I like the GS, I can see your concern about buying used,” said 1111GS. “Sometimes buying a super low mileage car can be a real issue. The previous owner might have had some serious issue that just wanted to get rid of the car. It’s very unlikely with the GS though. I really enjoyed mine. Fantastic car. As you said, too bad Lexus dropped it.”
Pricing
Finally, we have the issue of pricing, and right off the bat, it’s worth mentioning that buying a new vehicle is generally worse in that regard, as one is going to have to suffer through the normal depreciation, though that hasn’t necessarily been a problem in recent years of elevated used vehicle prices. Regardless, purchasing a used GS will most likely mean that you’ve let someone else foot that bill.
In any event, the 2024 Lexus IS starts out at $41,2235 for the IS300 RWD model, topping out at $64,520 for the F Sport Performance Premium. By comparison, used GS prices can vary greatly, but the last, 2020 model started out at $53,420 when new, or $86,035 for a GS F. However, if one can find a nice used example today, that same car will run you, on average, around $35,000, while the GS F can be had in the $50,000-$60,000 range, making it a compelling bargain – if you can find one that’s been well-cared for, of course.
Photos: Lexus
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