Audi
S4
Lexus
IS
Audi S4 vs Lexus IS: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
The Audi S4 offers fuel economy, while the Lexus IS excels at power instead. Choose the Audi S4 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Lexus IS if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
S4
Overall
Sentiment is deeply divided by generation and is heavily dependent on owner expectations and financial preparedness. For the B8/B8.5 generation (circa 2010-2016) with the supercharged 3.0T V6, feedback is overwhelmingly positive, praising the engine as a "beast" with great power, low-end torque, and a strong reliability track record when properly maintained. This generation is frequently described as a practical, fast, and comfortable daily driver that blends performance with family usability.
Best version to buy
B8.5 Generation (circa 2013-2016): This iteration of the supercharged 3.0T V6 is consistently highlighted for its proven reliability, strong performance, and the inclusion of a desirable dual-clutch (S tronic) or manual transmission in some models. It is seen as having resolved early B8 issues while avoiding the potential new-engine concerns of the later B9 and the catastrophic timing issues of the older B6/B7 V8 models.
Known issues
- ⚠**B6/B7 (4.2L V8) Generation:** Timing chain guide failure: Requires engine-out service, catastrophic if failed, guides can crack causing chain slack. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠**B8/B8.5 & B9 (3.0T V6) Generations:** High maintenance and repair costs: Brake jobs ($1,500+), control arms, water pumps, thermostats, PCV valves. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠**General/All Generations:** Oil changes are expensive: Requires 9.5+ quarts of oil. Frequency: recurrent. Complexity of repairs: Tight engine bays make DIY work difficult. Frequency: recurrent.
IS
Overall
Mixed sentiment heavily dependent on generation and powertrain. The IS is widely recognized for its strong long-term reliability, comfortable ride, and luxury feel, particularly when compared to German competitors. However, significant and recurring criticisms are directed at specific mechanical flaws, outdated powertrains, and poor fuel economy.
Best version to buy
IS 350 with the 2GR-FSE V6 engine is the most frequently recommended version for its superior power and reliability over the IS 250. For the third generation (3IS, 2014+), the 2015-2016 model years with the V6 and 6-speed automatic transmission are specifically highlighted to avoid the later UA80 transmission used in 2017+ models.
Known issues
- ⚠Carbon buildup on intake valves (IS 250 with 4GR-FSE engine): causes loss of power, rough idle, poor fuel economy, requires periodic cleaning. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Water pump and front cover oil leaks (2GR-FSE V6 engine): common failure requiring expensive repair (engine removal for front cover, ~20-25 hours labor). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Severe diesel engine issues (IS220d with 2AD-FHV engine): chronic DPF filter and EGR valve clogging leading to very high fuel consumption, potential for catastrophic engine failure (head gasket, seals) especially with poor maintenance.
The verdict
The Lexus IS is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Audi S4, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Lexus IS are a dealbreaker, the Audi S4 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Other comparisons
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi S4 or the Lexus IS?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Lexus IS than the Audi S4. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Audi S4 or the Lexus IS?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi S4 or the Lexus IS?
The Audi S4 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 10.2 L/100km combined versus 11.8 L/100km for the Lexus IS, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi S4 or the Lexus IS?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.