Lexus IS vs BMW 3 Series Comparison
Have you been searching for a premium compact luxury sedan? If so, it comes as no surprise that you’ve narrowed down your choices to the striking Lexus IS and one of its biggest rivals -- the BMW 3 Series. For nearly two decades, these two sedans have gone head-to-head to earn a coveted spot in a luxury shopper’s driveway. Lexus of Akron-Canton has created this useful guide that highlights the strengths of the Lexus IS in order to help make your decision a little easier.
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2024 Lexus IS 300 RWD |
VS |
2024 BMW 330i |
| $40,085 ✓ | Starting MSRP | $44,500 |
| 17.4 gallons ✓ | Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.6 gallons |
| Standard ✓ | Adaptive Cruise Control | Optional |
| 17.7 feet ✓ | Turning Radius | 18.7 feet |
| Standard ✓ | Remote Start System | Requires Subscription |
| LED ✓ | Front Fog Lights | Optional |
| 6 Years / 70,000 Miles ✓ | Powertrain Warranty | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles |
| Optional ✓ | Rear Window Sunshade | Not Available |
| Power, 2-Way ✓ | Driver's Seat Lumbar | Optional |
| Standard ✓ | Front Knee Airbags | Not Available |
| 44.8 Inches ✓ | Front Leg Room | 42.0 Inches |
Capability & Warranty Coverage
Right from the start, the Lexus IS offers a significant $4,415 price advantage over the rival BMW 330i. We’ll see exactly how far that extra cash goes as BMW later on in this comparison. The IS has a fuel tank with an additional 1.8 gallons of capacity which certainly comes in handy on extended road trips. Similarly, standard Adaptive Cruise Control provides a helping hand to properly maintain following distance and speed on the highway. A much shorter turning radius highlights the nimble handling and agility of the Lexus IS. You’ll also enjoy standard front LED foglights for a personalized look and improved visibility in low-light conditions. All of these great features will cost you extra on the BMW 330i.
Choosing the Lexus IS also means that you’ll get far more extensive powertrain warranty coverage. The Lexus powertrain warranty covers you for 6 years or 70,000 miles, whichever comes first. That’s a full 2 years or 20,000 greater than what’s offered by BMW, proving that Lexus owners will experience greater confidence and peace of mind.
Premium Features & Interior Space
The advantages for Lexus continue when looking at standard features and premium amenities. For personalized comfort, the IS comes standard with 2-way power lumbar adjustment for the driver’s seat. An optional rear window sunshade helps keep the interior cool on hot summer afternoons while a standard remote start system lets you precondition the cabin temperature exactly to your liking. Be prepared to shell out additional money for costly options that may require you to step up to a higher trim level at BMW.
Inside the IS, front seat occupants will have more room to stretch out and get comfortable thanks to 2.8 inches of additional front legroom. The BMW 330i does not offer front knee airbags, leaving you exposed to potential injury.
Winner - Lexus IS
Now that we’ve tallied the results, the obvious winner of this in-depth sports sedan comparison is the dynamic Lexus IS. The BMW 3 Series is simply unable to compete with the power, prestige, and premium comfort amenities included as standard across the IS model range. Ready to experience all that the Lexus IS has to offer? Our team at Lexus of Akron-Canton is standing by to introduce you to the IS family and help you choose the model that’s best suited to your driving preferences.