2014 Lexus IS 250 C Review
Price: $19,106





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- High-quality interior
- smooth ride quality
- all-weather hardtop
- golfer-friendly trunk.
Cons
- Extremely limited trunk space with the top down
- cramped backseat
- poor rear visibility
- sluggish acceleration.
What’s new
Apart from revised metallic interior trim in the F Sport option package, the 2014 Lexus IS 250 C is unchanged.
Edmunds says
The 2014 Lexus IS 250 C delivers high levels of comfort and refinement in a four-seat hardtop convertible, but not without a few compromises.
For sale near Chicago, IL
16 listings
- 97,846 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use
- 6cyl automatic
- Oak Lawn Toyota (4 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
Close
Located in Oak Lawn, IL
*Convertible*Presented in Matador Red Mica, our 2014 Lexus IS 250C Convertible promises an exhilarating open-air ride! Motivated by a 2.5 Liter 4 Cyli...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
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:
24 Combined MPG (21 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHFF2C25E2530282
Stock: P0365
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 03-31-2025- 73,725 miles
- No accidents, 4 owners, personal use
- 6cyl automatic
- Dave Backer Auto (243 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
Close
Located in Cincinnati, OH
BEAUTIFUL SILVER LINING METALLIC WITH MATCHING BLACK LEATHER INTERIOR, EXTRA LOW LOW MILES,PERFECT HISTORY REPORT, VERY RARE HARDTOP CONVERT...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
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:
24 Combined MPG (21 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHFF2C28E2530826
Stock: 530826
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 05-21-2025
Vehicle overview
Daydreams about convertibles often involve a drive to the beach along a sunny road lined with palm trees and your companion's hair blowing freely in the wind. In the 2014 Lexus IS 250 C, you can experience all of this from the comfort of a luxurious cockpit. And on those days when weather conditions are at odds with your dreams, you can raise this four-seat convertible's hardtop roof and essentially transform the IS 250 C into a coupe.
Said hardtop makes for quiet and comfortable motoring 365 days a year in the Lexus IS 250 C. And when you arrive at that picturesque coastal highway, the retractable roof only takes about 20 seconds to stow. In true Lexus fashion, the IS 250 C gives the impression that it was assembled with care and precision, and it comes with more standard features than other luxury-brand convertibles in this price range.
Not all is perfect, though. The standard 2.5-liter V6 engine offers enough power to get the Lexus IS 250 C around town respectably, but it doesn't provide much excitement. The more potent V6 in the IS 350 C (reviewed separately) solves this problem but of course costs more. Similarly, the car's handling isn't especially sporty, though the available F Sport suspension and tire upgrades help sharpen its reflexes. Additionally, you'll find that the 2014 IS 250 C isn't ideal for road trips due to its very snug rear seats and serious lack of trunk space when the roof is lowered (although you can still fit a set of golf clubs).
Although the Lexus is one of only a few entry-level, four-seat luxury convertibles available for 2014, there are a few good rivals to consider. The new BMW 4 Series convertible is one of our favorites thanks to its impressive performance and roomier rear seat. The Audi A5 also has a larger trunk and backseat and available all-wheel drive to get you through snowy winters. Another option is the slightly less expensive Volkswagen Eos. It's not as luxurious as the Lexus, but it's significantly quicker and comes with a nice array of high-end features. That said, if carefree top-down driving is your main mission in buying a premium convertible, the 2014 Lexus IS 250 C is certainly worth a look.
Performance & mpg
The 2014 Lexus IS 250 C comes with a 2.5-liter V6 engine that produces 204 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission that allows for manual shift control.
Lexus estimates that the IS 250 C will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. The EPA estimates that the IS 250 will get 24 mpg combined (21 mpg city/30 mpg highway).
Safety
The IS 250 C comes standard with antilock disc brakes, 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 a forward collision warning/preparation system, which can snug up the front seatbelts and activate brake assist immediately when the driver presses the brake pedal if an impending collision is detected. Parking sensors and a rearview camera are also optional.
In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the IS 250 C earned the highest possible rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
Driving
Whether you're cruising along cocooned with the roof up or enjoying a little al fresco motoring with it down, the 2014 Lexus IS 250 C's stiff body structure and supple suspension tuning make for a solid, smooth ride, even over rough roads. Handling and steering feel are fine for casual drives, but the optional F Sport performance equipment is worth considering if you want the car to have a more sporting driving character.
The 2.5-liter V6 engine provides acceptable acceleration for daily driving, but nothing more. Buyers looking for more excitement from under the hood should move up to the considerably more powerful IS 350 C.
Interior
The cabin of the 2014 Lexus IS 250 C is a stylish place done up in quality materials, especially in models decked out with the available Luxury package's premium leather and wood trim. Gauges and controls are clear and intuitive, though navigation-equipped models make it a little harder to get at touchscreen-controlled audio and climate functions while the nav system is in use. This nav system's smartphone integration features include Internet radio stations like Pandora and iHeart radio, as well as Yelp reviews for restaurants.
While the IS 250 C's front seats offer good comfort, the two-passenger backseat is a tight fit for all but the smallest kids. Trunk space is limited as well; there's a passable 10.8 cubic feet of cargo room, but it drops to just 2.4 cubic feet with the roof down. Oddly enough, it's still possible to squeeze in a golf bag with the top dropped.
2014 Lexus IS 250 C models
The four-passenger 2014 Lexus IS 250 C is a luxury convertible with a retractable hardtop that's offered in a single well-equipped trim level. There is also an IS 350 C convertible with a larger engine and a few additional features, which is reviewed separately.
Standard equipment on the IS 250 C includes 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, heated mirrors, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats (with two-way lumbar control), a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Also standard are the Safety Connect telematics system, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio, auxiliary audio input jack and iPod/USB interface.
The optional Luxury package includes bi-xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, upgraded perforated leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, genuine wood trim and driver memory settings. The Navigation package adds a navigation system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth automatic phonebook downloading, voice commands, HD radio and Lexus Enform enhanced telematics features (which include functions like emergency roadside assistance and smartphone app integration). A 12-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system can be added to the navigation system.
Other options include parking sensors and adaptive cruise control bundled with a frontal collision warning system. A variety of F Sport option packages are also available. In them, you'll find engine, suspension and brake performance parts; 18-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires; and upgraded interior trim and amenities.

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Compare 2014 Lexus IS 250 C trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Illinois
$225/mo for IS 250 C Base
IS 250 C Base
vs
$178/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Reliability
The 2014 Lexus IS 250 C has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
2 recalls foundChecking 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:
- 928220
- 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 front driver inflator, front passenger airbag inflator, the airbag assembly, or the front passenger airbag sub-assembly and inflator. The recall began November 20, 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 began February 15, 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.
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 Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Sexy yet reliable; still in LOVE
5 out of 5 starsAB, 03/02/2019
2010 Lexus IS 250 C 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
This was my splurge purchase. I wanted the SC and I LOVE the smooth luxurious ride of that car...but it's a true two seater. When lexus came out with a true 4 seater convertable, I knew I had to have it! This is my summer car truthfully as the visibility and handling in the persistently wet and gray PNW makes me hesitant to use it in the winter when the days are short and the … constantly gray and stormy. It's got a tall rear end and the backup camera is essential for me. Im 5'4" and the front seats are plenty comfortable. I fit in the back just fine as well, but there's no pretending its comfortable back there. My husband is 6'2" and fits well in the front and finds it a comfortable ride. He does fit in the back, but not well. My absolute favorite thing about this car is the wind screen that prevents almost all wind in the cabin when the top is down and windows rolled up. Buy this extra accessory; it's WORTH it! It's very quiet with the top down, even on the freeway. I can talk on the phone with the top down on the freeway with no problem. I STILL love this car, even after all these years. Im still excited tho drive it!
So Far So Good
4.63 out of 5 stars1st Lexus, 07/07/2009
2010 Lexus IS 250 C 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
I am a convertible guy, having owned 4 Z4's, an Audi A4 and a BMW 128. I was hesitant to purchase a hardtop, but ever since I saw this one at a DC Auto Show, I was hooked. Had to drive 100 miles to get it, but it is everything I've hoped it would be. Quiet as can be inside with the top up, great gas mileage, fantastic "goodies" including sat radio, cooled and heated seats, Xenons, … starting and locking/unlocking the car without using the key. I will say this ride is much more calm than the German cars, but I was having terrible electrical issues with the German cars and I feel the Lexus will last longer. If you need lots of pick-up, go with the 350. I have gotten about 28mpg so far w/250.
STILL- BEST Hardtop Convertible for the $!
5 out of 5 starsSteve, 08/19/2015
2013 Lexus IS 250 C 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
UPDATE: 2/21/21- 96,000 miles. Still the most reliable car I’ve owned. The TPMS tire monitor batteries all died. Unfortunately to get the ‘low tire icon’ off, you have to dismount every tire, replace the TPMS monitor, mount and rebalance the tire, then finally reprogram one of the cars computers to fix it correctly. That was a $350 cost. A lot of $ for the problem but $1,000 less than … having the dealership do it! Other than that the car has been flawless!
My wife and I just turned 78,000 miles. You want great looks? You want great handling? You want great reliability? It's a beautiful automobile!
Well trimmed inside. Quality all the way. Rides very solid with no 'shakes', no jitters, no rattles!
Great gas mileage...and a fun car to drive!
Only have had to do regular maintenance...just put brake pads on all around.
I looked at and test drove all of the competitors that produced brand new hardtop convertibles...this was the overall best!...do the same and see if you disagree.
Mercedes, Infiniti, BMW, Volvo, (Chrysler-was not even worth what you would pay for it is REAL CHEAP), were all compared...(Mazda & Mini-Copper-too small, VW & Jaguar-no hardtop at that time).
A quiet sports car with good handling
5 out of 5 starsSolo, 02/07/2020
2010 Lexus IS 250 C 2dr Convertible (2.5L 6cyl 6A)
I acquired the IS250C early in 2020, with 61,000 miles on it. The good: The car came with the optional 18" wheels with low-profile Michelin tires. I live in the NC mountains where there are NO straight roads and the 250C surprised me with outstanding handling on the twisty, hilly roads in the area. It hugs the curves like my Mazda Miata did, but without all the noise. Selecting sport … mode gives you a bit more punch in accelerating, but without the increased noise level you will hear from a 4 cylinder engine. With the top up, there is Zero noise from the multi-section top - no squeaks from the rubber seals, no rattles, nothing. The instruments are classic sports car design - bright white on a black background. Not so good: Rear seat legroom is extremely tight. The cream-colored leather seats do not wear well and replacements are NOT available from Katzkin. The front and rear tires are different sizes, so you can't rotate the tires to spread the wear. The engine requires premium gas. You can't easily access the center console storage compartment while driving, so there's no place to store your sunglasses. In summary - for not much more than the price of a Miata of the same vintage, the IS250C is a quiet and refined sports car that's well suited for long road trips as well. The idea that you need the IS350C's larger engine is hogwash, unless you tend to drive like you're at the dragstrip.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2014 Lexus IS 250 C, so we've included reviews for other years of the IS 250 C since its last redesign.
2014 IS 250 C Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $42,860 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $225/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 10.8 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the IS 250 C include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
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