The front-wheel drive IS 250 utilizes a standard six-speed manual transmission, with a six-speed automatic with Formula 1 inspired paddle-shifters available as an option. The all-wheel drive IS 250 uses the six-speed automatic transmission standard. Safety features include driver and front-passenger knee airbags. The brakes are large and effective four-wheel discs, clamped at the front by aluminum four-piston calipers. Augmenting the big brakes are ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist. Traction control also comes standard.
For 2009 the IS 250 receives subtle changes to the front and rear bumpers, tail lights, turn-signals integrated into the exterior mirrors, and new wheel designs.
