VS
At a Glance
Power
255hp @ 4700
311hp @ 6600
Torque
295lb-ft @ 1600
280lb-ft @ 4800
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
3.5 L/211cc
Choosing between the BMW 3 Series and the Lexus IS is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW 3 Series delivers 255hp @ 4700 while the Lexus IS produces 311hp @ 6600. Pricing starts at $47,500 for the 3 Series and $47,500 for the IS. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
255hp @ 4700
311hp @ 6600
Torque (lb-ft)
295lb-ft @ 1600
280lb-ft @ 4800
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
3.5 L/211cc
Engine Layout
—
V
Cylinders
4
6
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
6
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
28mpg
19 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
35mpg
26 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.6gal
17.4gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
185.7in
185.4in
Width (in)
71.9in
72.4in
Height (in)
56.8in
56.5in
Wheelbase (in)
112.5in
110.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3644lbs
3913lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
0 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Tied
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
BMW 3 Series
Well-rounded specification
Few notable weaknesses
Lexus IS
Well-rounded specification
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the 3 Series or IS?
The 3 Series produces 255hp @ 4700 and 295lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the IS delivers 311hp @ 6600 and 280lb-ft @ 4800 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the 3 Series and IS?
The 3 Series starts from $47,500 and the IS from $47,500. The IS is cheaper by $0 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the 3 Series or the IS?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider