DecodedCarsBMW i4 vs Lexus IS
2026 BMW i4 vs 2026 Lexus IS — two compact cars compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
That works out to about $3,100 a year less in fuel for the BMW i4 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the BMW i4 has had fewer recall campaigns (12 vs 15).
The two cars
The 2026 BMW i4 is a compact car powered by electricity and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The electric version has an EPA-rated range of up to 333 miles and takes about 7 hours to charge on a 240-volt Level 2 charger.
The 2026 Lexus IS is a compact car offered with a 3.5L 6-cyl engine and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It measures about 186 inches long and 72 inches wide on a 110-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,913 lb.
Buying used? The 2024 i4 and the 2024 IS have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2023 i4 and the 2015 IS.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the BMW i4 if…
- You want an EV with more range (333 miles)
- You want more power (up to 593 vs 311 hp)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
Choose the Lexus IS if…
It doesn't clearly beat the BMW i4 on any measure we track.
Pros & cons of each
2026 BMW i4
- Long EV rangeUp to 333 miles on a charge (EPA).
- Strong performanceUp to 593 hp, versus about 311 hp for similar 2026 models.
- AWD / 4WD available
2026 Lexus IS
- AWD / 4WD available
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Below-average fuel economyBest version gets 22 MPG combined, 25% below the 2026 compact car average of 29.2 MPG.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 BMW i4 specs →Full 2026 Lexus IS specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →