2012 Lexus IS 250 C Review

Name: 2012 Lexus IS 250 C
Brand: Lexus
Rating: 4.8 (40 reviews)

Price Range: $19,990 - $22,990

2013 Lexus IS 350 C Convertible Exterior

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Average price: $16,722

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Appraise My 2012 Lexus IS 250 C

Lexus IS 250 C model years

Lexus IS 250 C for Sale

Edmunds' Expert Review

by the Edmunds Experts

Pros

High-quality interior
smooth ride quality
all-weather hardtop
many safety features
golfer-friendly trunk.

Cons

Poor rear visibility
limited top-down trunk space
cramped backseat
weak acceleration
bulbous rear end styling.

What’s new

For 2012, the Lexus IS 250 C sees no changes of note.

Edmunds says

The 2012 Lexus IS 250 C delivers high levels of comfort and refinement in a hardtop convertible, but not without a few compromises.

For sale near Ashburn, VA

13 listings

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2012 Lexus IS 250 C
Base Convertible
$14,900
fair price
$354 above market
- 112,148 miles
- 1 accident, 4 owners, personal use only
- 6cyl automatic
- Sponsler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (283 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Upgraded Headlights
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Mount Vernon, OH
This * 2012 Lexus IS 250C 250C*, has a Obsidian exterior and an Black interior color. 112,148 miles. Stock Number CMBP002U.*OTHER NOTABLE FEATURES AND...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (21 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHFF2C29C2524319
Stock: CMBP002U
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 12-20-2025
2012 Lexus IS 250 C
Base Convertible
$19,990
good price
$612 below market
- 46,131 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 6cyl automatic
- Carvana - Columbus (301 mi away)
- Free home delivery*
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
Close
Located in Columbus, OH
At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (21 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHFF2C23C2522761
Stock: 2004375055
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-06-2026

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Vehicle overview

Compromise can be a good thing in an automobile, especially when it involves something like a convertible. The 2012 Lexus IS 250 C combines the sunny exhilaration of a convertible with the everyday practicality of a coupe, and who wouldn't want this? It's the hardtop convertible design that makes it possible, a complicated and expensive sort of compromise to be sure, but one that offers the best of both worlds when it comes to luxury motoring.

Compared to a conventional soft top, the hardtop offers better insulation from the weather, not to mention better insulation from everyday highway noise, plus it delivers better protection from would-be thieves. The compromises paid for all this come in weight and complication (and cost), but what you'll notice most will be the notable restriction in trunk space to accommodate the folded top. And the Lexus IS convertible also looks pretty ungainly because of the oddly shaped tonneau cover required to cover the top when it's folded into the trunk. Nevertheless, this Lexus hardtop retracts in just 20 seconds, making the transition from closed coupe to drop-top cruiser a breeze. And that's what matters.

Likewise, the IS 250 C's small V6 engine has a small appetite for fuel, but the price paid is performance that is only adequate at best. In its favor, the suspension ably insulates passengers from the bumps, but it will disappoint drivers looking for lively, engaging handling. Lastly, although it has rear seats, the cramped rear quarters are best left to smaller passengers. No compromise is made, however, when it comes to interior quality, as the IS 250 C upholds the company's strong reputation for handsome, well-constructed cabins.

Naturally, the 2012 Lexus IS 250 C isn't the only choice in this segment. Our favorite is still the BMW 3 Series given its more dynamic nature. You might also want to check out the Audi A5 (http://www.edmunds.com, a high-end model of the Volkswagen Eos or the Volvo C70 . But if a smooth ride and a top-notch interior are your main priorities, you should be pretty happy with the IS 250 C.

Performance & mpg

The 2012 Lexus IS 250 C comes with a 2.5-liter V6 that produces 204 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic that includes manual shift control.

Lexus estimates that the IS 250 C will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. EPA fuel economy estimates with the automatic are 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined. The manual transmission comes in slightly lower at 19/28/22 mpg.

Safety

The IS 250 C comes standard with antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags, front-seat side curtain airbags, front-seat knee airbags and Lexus Safety Connect emergency telematics.

Included with the optional adaptive cruise control is the Lexus Pre-Collision system, which can retract the front seatbelts and activate brake assist immediately when the driver presses the brake pedal if an impending collision is detected.

Driving

Top up or down, the 2012 Lexus IS 250 C delivers high levels of refinement. The body structure is shake-free even when driving over rough pavement and the folding hardtop provides impressive isolation from highway wind noise. Acceleration is adequate with the automatic transmission and we actually prefer it over the six-speed manual that's neither accurate nor fun to shift. Those desiring livelier engine performance should check out the more powerful IS 350 C.

As far as handling, the soft suspension and lifeless steering are tuned more for comfort than spirited driving. But those looking to add some spice to the IS 250 C might consider the optional F Sport dealer accessory parts which, among other items include firmer suspension components and high-performance intake and exhaust systems.

Interior

The 2012 Lexus IS 250 C boasts first-class accommodations in terms of premium materials and sporty design. As expected from any Lexus, fit and finish is top-notch. The navigation controls feature a mix of physical and touchscreen buttons for intuitive operation.

Whether the top is raised or lowered, the IS 250 C's climate control automatically adjusts fan speed and distribution to maintain optimum comfort. The audio system also adapts to al fresco motoring by adjusting the equalizer settings based on wind noise.

Convertibles generally place little emphasis on rear seat comfort, and the IS 250 C is no different. With one of the smallest backseats in its class, space is at a premium for even the smallest of passengers.

As with most retractable hardtops, trunk space is significantly reduced when the top is stowed. With the top up, the trunk offers a decent capacity of 10.8 cubic feet. With the top folded, that figure drops to a puny 2.4 cubes. Fortunately, what remaining space there is will still accommodate a golf bag.

2012 Lexus IS 250 C models

The four-passenger 2012 Lexus IS 250 C is a retractable-hardtop luxury convertible that is offered in one well-appointed trim level. There is an IS 350 C with a larger engine and a few additional features; it's reviewed separately.

Standard equipment on the IS 250 C includes 17-inch wheels, foglamps, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 10-way power front seats (includes two-way lumbar control), leather upholstery and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Also standard are the Safety Connect telematics system, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and iPod/USB interface.

The Navigation System package adds a hard-drive-based navigation system, Bluetooth phonebook downloading, a rearview camera, voice commands, real-time traffic and other information, and Lexus Enform enhanced telematics features. A 14-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system can be added to the navigation system. The Luxury package adds xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, auto-dimming side mirrors, automatic wipers, driver memory functions, heated and ventilated front seats, and wood trim.

Stand-alone options include a few of the items listed in the above packages, plus 18-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control with Lexus' Pre-Collision system. A variety of F Sport suspension and brake performance parts are also available.

Compare 2012 Lexus IS 250 C trim levels

Owners' Opinions

What Owners Like

Owners consistently appreciate the Lexus IS 250 C for its smooth, quiet ride quality. The retractable hardtop impresses with its quick, reliable operation, providing the comfort and sound insulation of a coupe when raised and a serene, open-air experience when lowered. Many enjoy the comfortably smooth driving experience and fuel efficiency, noting it as ideal for leisurely drives rather than high-performance maneuvers. The distinct appeal of this convertible captures attention, and its luxury status garners admiration from onlookers, as noted by the frequent compliments it receives. Furthermore, the sophisticated interior with high-quality materials and advanced technology features, even when a few years old, enhances the driving pleasure and user experience for many owners.

Common Issues

Owners frequently report frustration with the rattle noises emanating from the retractable hardtop, particularly as the vehicle ages. The expense and complexity of addressing these noises, involving realignment and potential labor costs, are significant drawbacks. Additionally, the rear seat space is notably tight, offering limited comfort for adult passengers, which can be restrictive in practical use. Some drivers have also mentioned issues with weather seals deteriorating, leading to unwanted noise and environmental effects penetrating the cabin. Lastly, while the Lexus IS 250 C strikes a balance with its engine performance, its power output can feel inadequate for those seeking a more spirited driving experience, highlighting the preference for the more robust 350 C version among owners desiring additional horsepower.

Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers

Everyday drivers find the Lexus IS 250 C to be a reliable companion with a blend of luxury and ease of use. Many value its seamless transition from a hardtop coupe to an open-air convertible, allowing for a versatile driving experience in varied weather conditions. Fuel efficiency stands out as a positive aspect, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and leisurely drives. However, the occasional hardtop rattle and limited rear seat space are noted trade-offs, though these issues often take a backseat to the enjoyment of its refined interior and premium driving feel. In the scope of luxury convertibles, the IS 250 C maintains its standing as an aesthetically pleasing vehicle, eliciting appreciation and satisfaction from its owners on sunny drives through the city or on weekend getaways.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$263/mo

$225/mo

Avg. Compact Car

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Reliability

The 2012 Lexus IS 250 C has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 4 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

4 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 19V741000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: J0A, J0B,
Manufactured from:: 2008-04-23 to 2008-12-04
Number of vehicles affected:: 928203
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Defect Consequence:: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the driver or front passenger air bag inflator or the air bag assembly using an alternate inflator , free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 15, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J0A, J0B, and J0C. Lexus' numbers for this recall are JLI, JLJ, and JLK.

Recall Number:: 19V005000
Manufactured from:: 2009-04-17 to 2015-08-03
Number of vehicles affected:: 1299448
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Toyota 4Runner, 2014-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, and 2014-2017 Lexus GX460 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS350, 2010-2016 4Runner, 2010-2013 Lexus IS250, 2010-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2010-2014 Lexus IS-F, and 2010-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Defect Consequence:: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. The recall is expected to begin February 11, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are "Zone A" Toyota: G0P, Lexus: GLG; "Zone B" Toyota: G0R, Lexus GLH; "Zone C" Toyota: H0A, and Lexus: HLA.

Recall Number:: 17V006000
Manufactured from:: 2011-06-03 to 2012-12-26
Number of vehicles affected:: 567911
Defect Description:: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2012 Toyota 4Runner, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, Yaris, Scion xB, Lexus ES350, GX460, IS-F, IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, and Lexus LFA vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2009 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Yaris HB, Scion xB, Pontiac Vibe, Lexus, ES350, IS250, IS350, and IS-F vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and IS350, 2007-2008 Lexus ES350, Toyota Yaris, Yaris HB, and 2008 Lexus IS-F and Scion xB vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Defect Consequence:: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify the Toyota, Scion and Lexus owners. General Motors will contact the Pontiac owners. Depending on the model, dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator or the air bag assembly, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not yet available are expected to begin January 30, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331, or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. Toyota's numbers for interim notification for this campaign are G1P (Toyota Zone A), G1R (Toyota Zone B), H1A (Toyota Zone C), G2G (Lexus Zone A), G2H (Lexus Zone B) and H2A (Lexus Zone C). Toyota's numbers for final remedy for this campaign are G0P (Toyota Zone A), G0R (Toyota Zone B), H0A (Toyota Zone C), GLG (Lexus Zone A), GLH (Lexus Zone B) and HLA (Lexus Zone C).

Recall Number:: 13V030000
Manufactured from:: 2007-12-14 to 2011-07-10
Number of vehicles affected:: 267718
Defect Description:: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 vehicles manufactured August 23, 2005, through October 5, 2011; 2010-2012 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles manufactured April 10, 2009, through October 6, 2011; and 2008-2011 Lexus IS-F vehicles manufactured December 14, 2007, through July 10, 2011. The nuts that fasten the wiper arms may be insufficiently torqued such that if the wiper arms are restricted by an external load, such as a buildup of heavy snow, one or both of the wipers may become inoperative.
Defect Consequence:: Inoperative wipers could reduce driver visibility and increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action:: Toyota will notify owners, and Lexus dealers will install new wiper arm nuts, free of charge. The recall will begin in late February 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 6 years / 70,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 6 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles

Lexus IS 250 C Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.8

40 reviews

5(82%)

4(12%)

3(2%)

2(4%)

1(0%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2012 IS 250 C Features & Specs

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$41,190
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	22 MPG
Cost to Drive	$263/month
Seating	4 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	10.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Safety

Key safety features on the IS 250 C include:

Alarm
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control
Post-collision safety system

2012 Lexus IS 250 C Review

Price & Payment

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What’s new

Edmunds says

For sale near Ashburn, VA

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Vehicle overview

Performance & mpg

Safety

Driving

Interior

2012 Lexus IS 250 C models

Owners' Opinions

What Owners Like

Common Issues

Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Recalls

Warranty

Lexus IS 250 C Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2012 IS 250 C Features & Specs

Safety