1999 Lexus IS I (XE10) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The width of the Lexus IS I (XE10) ranges between 1720 mm and 1725 mm (67.7 to 67.9 inches). This width contributes to the car's stable handling characteristics and road presence. A wider stance enhances cornering ability and overall stability, which complements the car’s sporty driving dynamics. Despite its moderate width, the IS I is not too wide for most urban environments and fits comfortably on standard road lanes and parking spaces while giving passengers a reasonably spacious interior.

The height of the Lexus IS I (XE10) falls between 1410 mm and 1420 mm (approximately 55.5 to 55.9 inches). This relatively low profile height enhances the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and sporty stance, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The low height also helps lower the car's center of gravity, improving handling and cornering performance. On the interior side, while the height is modest, it still allows for a comfortable headroom experience for most occupants, particularly in the front seats, though rear headroom is slightly more compact compared to larger sedans.

The curb weight of the Lexus IS I (XE10) ranges from approximately 1360 kg to 1565 kg (about 2998 to 3451 pounds) depending on the specific trim level and optional features installed. This weight is considered fairly lightweight for a luxury compact sedan, contributing to its agile handling and responsive driving feel. The maximum weight, which includes passengers and cargo, ranges from 1820 kg to 1955 kg (approximately 4013 to 4310 pounds). These weight figures reflect the solid build quality of the Lexus with desirable dynamics, balancing performance and fuel economy.

The Lexus IS I (XE10) offers a luggage capacity ranging from 283 liters to 440 liters (about 10.0 to 15.5 cubic feet), depending on the rear seat configuration and optional equipment. The lower end of this range applies when the rear seats are in use without folding, while the higher capacity can be achieved with rear seats folded in some variants, increasing versatility. This capacity is reasonably practical for a compact executive sedan, sufficient for daily use, grocery shopping, or weekend trips. While it may be smaller than some competitors’ trunks, the IS I still holds its own by balancing sporty design with usable cargo space.

The Lexus IS I (XE10) typically comes equipped with 17-inch rims paired with tire sizes like 215/45 ZR17, 215/45 R17, or 225/45 R17. These tire and rim combinations are designed to provide a balance between sporty handling and ride comfort. The 17-inch wheels contribute to the car’s precise steering response and cornering grip, enhancing the sporty driving experience Lexus intended with this model. Additionally, the tire width and profile provide enough sidewall to absorb road imperfections, contributing to a smoother ride even on uneven surfaces.

Yes, the Lexus IS I (XE10), with its length ranging from 4400 mm to 4486 mm (173.2 to 176.5 inches), width between 1720 mm and 1725 mm (67.7 to 67.9 inches), and height around 1410 mm to 1420 mm (55.5 to 55.9 inches), fits comfortably into most standard residential garages. Typical single-car garage dimensions usually start around 2740 mm (108 inches) wide and 5180 mm (204 inches) deep, which easily accommodates the IS I with room to spare for opening doors and storage. Thus, owners do not generally have to worry about garage space when parking this Lexus model.

The Lexus IS I (XE10) was essentially the export name and luxury-branded version of the Toyota Altezza, which it closely resembles dimensionally. Length, width, and height are very similar between the two, with the Lexus typically featuring slight variations in curb weight from approximately 1360 to 1565 kg (2998 to 3451 lbs) due to added luxury features and sound insulation. The IS I emphasizes more premium materials and refinement compared to the Altezza but retains the compact executive sedan footprint. Overall, dimensionally and in weight, the two are nearly identical, with refinements aimed at enhancing the Lexus brand's luxury and driving experience.

When compared to contemporaries like the BMW E46 3 Series and Audi B6 A4, the Lexus IS I (XE10) holds its own as a sporty, compact luxury sedan. Dimension-wise, the IS I’s length (4400-4486 mm), width (~1720 mm), and height (~1410 mm) are competitive but slightly smaller or similar, which contributes to agile handling and urban usability. Weight-wise, it falls within a comparable range (1360-1565 kg) as these peers. While the German rivals emphasize precision driving dynamics and technology, the IS I focuses on combining sportiness with Japanese reliability and refined luxury. Its unique styling and strong build quality attract buyers looking for an alternative to European sedans without sacrificing dimensions or performance.

The Lexus IS I (XE10) marked a shift towards a more compact, sportier design compared to earlier Lexus models, which typically leaned towards larger executive sedans like the GS series. Its dimensions, length ranging from 4400 mm to 4486 mm, width near 1720 mm, and low height of around 1410 mm, were tailored to attract buyers looking for a dynamic driving experience in a luxury compact package. This generation emphasized sharp styling, enhanced driving dynamics with rear-wheel drive, and premium interior materials. The IS I established Lexus in the compact luxury segment, offering a smaller and sportier alternative to the brand’s traditionally larger sedans.