Lexus IS running costs are comparatively low with the Japanese company taking many steps to keep things cheap. For example, it’s fitted with a stainless steel exhaust so you’ll never need to replace it. Many service items have had their life expectancy increased or their costs reduced, however the downside is that the IS requires a service every 10,000 miles.

The IS is quite a polluting model – not helped by the petrol model which emits 231g/km of CO2 (with the manual gearbox). So, it’s fair to say Lexus IS emissions need not be applauded. The diesel originally emitted 168g/km of CO2 but revised models from late 2008 emit 163g/km – making them cheaper to tax. Economy stays the same at 50mpg.

Lexus IS reliability promises to be pretty bulletproof because the Japanese car makers has a superb reputation. Problems are few and far between while Lexus dealers are the best around.