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USCar Trader import service
Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.
Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
CarHub · Lexus
The Lexus IS is the brand's compact rear-drive sports sedan, a considered alternative to the German establishment that has always sold in far greater numbers in the United States than in Europe.
Model profile
The IS badge dates back to 1999, but the cars most relevant for import today are the second generation (XE20, 2006 to 2013) and especially the third generation (XE30), which launched for 2014 and, unusually, has stayed in production through extensive facelifts.
Powertrain and equipment
The US IS line-up is engine-rich. The IS 300 came with either a 2.0-litre turbocharged four (in rear-drive form) making around 241 hp, or a 3.5-litre V6 in all-wheel-drive form.
The IS is a four-door compact sports saloon only; there is no wagon or coupe in this generation (the coupe became the separate RC).
Vehicle selection
The IS is a staple of the US used market, with strong volumes of IS 300 and IS 350 cars across the XE30 run.
The Lexus IS suits a buyer who wants a compact rear-drive luxury sedan with proven reliability, a refined cabin and, in IS 350 and IS 500 form, a characterful naturally aspirated engine that is increasingly hard to find.
Vehicle data
| Body style | 4-door compact sports sedan |
|---|---|
| Length (XE30, 2021+) | Approx. 4,710 mm |
| Wheelbase | Approx. 2,800 mm |
| Kerb weight | Approx. 1,600-1,765 kg |
| Seating | 5 |
| Layout | Front engine, RWD or AWD |
|---|---|
| IS 300 (turbo) | 2.0 L turbo I4, approx. 241 hp |
| IS 300 AWD / IS 350 | 3.5 L V6 (2GR), approx. 260-311 hp |
| IS 500 | 5.0 L V8 (2UR-GSE), approx. 472 hp |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto (RWD) / 6-speed auto (AWD) |
| Fuel tank | Approx. 66 L |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| 0-100 km/h (IS 500) | Approx. 4.5 s |
|---|---|
| Boot capacity | Approx. 480 L |
| Origin | Typically built in Tahara, Japan |
Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.
Pre-purchase review
The IS is one of the more dependable cars in its class, and the 2GR V6 in particular has an excellent long-term record. That said, there are known items. Early 2GR-FSE V6 engines could suffer oil leaks from the timing-cover area; the port-and-direct-injection later engines can build up some carbon over time.
Germany and Europe
US IS models run US-spec lighting without a rear fog lamp, amber side markers and US beam patterns that need adapting for approval.
Typical work includes adapting the headlights, fitting a rear fog lamp, and confirming metric speedometer and odometer readings. Lighting and any US reflectors are checked.
USCar Trader services
As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.
Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.
Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.
Import process
Begin by selecting the right IS and engine. Pay through secure escrow, book ocean freight to a German port, then clear customs on arrival.
Questions and answers
No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
Import VAT and other taxes or costs are assessed separately under the applicable rules and the circumstances of the individual case. A blanket answer for every vehicle would not be reliable.
Yes, it is among the most dependable in its class, with the 2GR V6 especially well regarded.
Yes. The naturally aspirated V8 IS 500 is a US-market car and a prime candidate for import.
The IS 350 with the 2GR V6 blends performance and reliability; the IS 500 is the enthusiast's choice.
Yes. IS 300 AWD and IS 350 AWD use a V6 and a six-speed automatic.
Only in limited form and only certain versions; many US engine and trim combinations were never officially offered here.
Typically several weeks from purchase to registration, driven by ocean freight and the TUEV appointment.
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