BMW M vs Lexus IS
The BMW M and Lexus IS are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 26 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Across 2 measured categories, the BMW M leads in 2. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | BMW M | Lexus IS |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 26 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 23 mpg ✓ | 22 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 32 mpg | 32 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,900 | $2,900 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 264 g/mi ✓ | 345 g/mi |
| Engines offered | SIDI; PHEV, SIDI, SIDI; Mild Hybrid | SIDI & PFI, SIDI |
| Transmissions | Automatic (S8), Manual 6-spd, Automatic (AM-S7) | Automatic (S6), Automatic (S8) |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Premium and Electricity, Premium | Premium |
| EPA class | Subcompact Cars | Compact Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2027 | 2015–2026 |
| Configurations on record | 236 | 52 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
M vs IS: common questions
Which is better on gas, the BMW M or the Lexus IS?
The BMW M and Lexus IS are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 26 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Lexus IS runs about $2,900 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $2,900 for the BMW M — a difference of roughly $0 per year.
What engines do the M and IS offer?
BMW M: SIDI; PHEV, SIDI, SIDI; Mild Hybrid. Lexus IS: SIDI & PFI, SIDI.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
The EPA classifies the BMW M as Subcompact Cars and the Lexus IS as Compact Cars, so they aren't a like-for-like match on size.
More M comparisons
Comparison id: bmw-m-vs-lexus-is