Lexus IS vs Toyota Camry
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Lexus IS
Price TBC
Sedan
Petrol
4GR-FSE 2.5-litre V6 D-4S dual injection
153kW
9.2 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
480L
Toyota Camry
From $39,990
Sedan
Hybrid
2.5L 4-cyl Dual VVT-i Hybrid
170kW
4 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
524L
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus IS and Toyota Camry hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Toyota Camry packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Lexus IS.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Toyota Camry counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that the Lexus IS does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus IS uses a 4GR-FSE 2.5-litre V6 D-4S dual injection producing 153kW and 252Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.1 seconds.
The Toyota Camry responds with a 2.5L 4-cyl Dual VVT-i Hybrid making 170kW and 221Nm, paired to a cvt driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.1 seconds.
The Toyota Camry has the clear power advantage at 170kW vs 153kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus IS measures 4,665mm long on a 2,800mm wheelbase, 255mm shorter than the Toyota Camry at 4,920mm (2,825mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Toyota Camry generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 480L in the Lexus IS and 524L in the Toyota Camry, giving the Toyota Camry a 44L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m to 11.2m
Based on 10.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,622/year for the Lexus IS and $1,140/year for the Toyota Camry. That is a $1,482 annual difference in favour of the Toyota Camry.
Estimated annual total: $2,622 (Lexus IS) vs $1,140 (Toyota Camry). The Toyota Camry saves you roughly $1,482 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus IS) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota Camry). The Toyota Camry has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus IS if: You or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Toyota Camry if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Toyota Camry takes 4 of 4 key spec categories. The Toyota Camry will save you roughly $1,482 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Toyota Camry has a clear edge. The Toyota Camry adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus IS and Toyota Camry?
The Toyota Camry is the cheapest at $39,990 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Toyota Camry uses the least fuel at 4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus IS and Toyota Camry all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Toyota Camry has the largest boot at 524L.
Which can tow the most?
The Toyota Camry has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,200kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Toyota Camry has the longest warranty at 5 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Toyota Camry makes the most power at 170kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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