The first generation Lexus IS made its debut in 2001 as a small rear-wheel drive sedan that derived its power from a 3.0 Liter engine with six cylinders and 215 horsepower. It was equipped with a choice between 16 or 17 inch tires, airbags in the front, anti-lock brakes and traction control. In 2002, a second version called the SportCross joined the lineup. This model had a different looking front than the sedan. It was equipped with a front passenger seat that can be folded downwards, a rear seat that is split and can be folded and a new stereo system. The sedan was available with a five speed manual or automatic gear system. Also added were mirrors that dim the headlights of the oncoming traffic. In 2003, both versions got 17 inch tires that could run in all kinds of weather and added as an option was a navigation system, a moon roof, and heated leather seats. In 2005, an indicator was added, letting the driver know when the next maintenance would be due.

The second generation Lexus IS made its debut in 2006. It came in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. The new models were numbered IS 250RWD and IS 250AWD powered by a V6 engine with 204 horsepower. The third version was numbered IS 350 RWD and was powered by a V6 engine with 306 horsepower. All three models were equipped with anti-lock brakes, skid and traction control system, airbags and 17 inch tires. In 2007 a rear-wheel drive X package was added to the lineup. This model is equipped with 18 inch tires, a spoiler for the front lip and has sports suspension.