Predicted Resale Value After 5 Years of Ownership: 38.4%
Predicted Resale Value After 5 Years of Ownership: 
Drifting into 2021 with a notably refreshed attitude and a sense of purpose, the Lexus IS compact luxury sedan wears its value on its sleeve, and in its interior and under its skin. The refresh brings a series of welcome tweaks and refinements throughout the car, rather than dramatic changes. Each of the tweaks, however, adds desirability strong resale value to a small, sporty Lexus sedan that couldn’t even find its way to our BRVA podium last year.
Even the base model Lexus IS travels well beyond the well-earned Lexus reputation for quality and reliability, and the Lexus Safety System+ greatest hits of occupant safety. It does a great job of letting you create the compact luxury sedan you want. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is available. The rear-drive IS 300 offers a 241 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, while the all-wheel-drive IS 300 AWD uses a 260-horsepower V6. The performance player, however, is the aggressive, 311-horsepower IS 350 F Sport, available in rear-drive and all-wheel-drive form.
“The 2021 Lexus IS 350 remains a joy to drive on curving mountain roads,” is how we praised it in our full review. “The 3.5-liter V6 in this thoroughly entertaining sport sedan has an abundance of power, and the suspension, though slightly firm, blends all-day comfort with excellent chassis control.”
Inside the 5-passenger cabin, the IS is finally compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. These are all controlled by a new 8-inch touchscreen display. And while leather is not available, the NuLuxe synthetic material plays a decent close second. Options are few — appropriate for a BRVA winner that’s already the complete package.
More 2021 Lexus IS
Build and price your own 2021 Lexus IS to see this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more, or check out the IS models for sale today at dealers near you.
You can also see more luxury sedans or check out the full list of this year’s Best Resale Value Awards winners.
2nd Place: 2021 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Predicted resale value after 5 years of ownership: 36.4% of original sticker price
The affordable subcompact Mercedes sedan extends its appeal by holding its strong value and luxurious appeal when the time comes to sell. Learn more about the CLA or find one for sale near you
3rd Place: 2021 Lexus RC
Predicted resale value after 5 years of ownership: 36.1% of original sticker price
A successful styling exercise with a sporty soul, the 2021 Lexus RC also enjoys Lexus quality and reliability to enhance its resale value. Learn more about the RC or find one for sale near you
