After careful consideration you have decided that your next car should be a Lexus.

Why, you ask? Because it's a great overall decision, given the outstanding reliability and competitive performance for which Lexus vehicles are known.

The trouble is, between the Lexus IS 250 and Lexus IS 250 F Sport, you're not sure which one to choose. The good news is either model is available as a Lexus lease, which offers great value and flexibility when compared to purchasing a Lexus outright.

Both of these cars have lots in common, but the somewhat subtle differences between them are what will ultimately guide your decision. So if you were wondering what makes the IS 250 a great purchase, or want to know why you should upgrade to the high-end F-Sport trim, we have the answers.

Sophistication and Style

The Lexus IS 250 offers a racy design with LED daytime running lamps and LED fog lights. Siri Eyes Free comes standard and passengers riding in the back will notice that they have more legroom.

This car is comfortable and delivers what you would expect from an entry-level sedan, but also comes available in a convertible model.

Equipped with a 2.5-L V6 engine which gets 204 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque, six-speed automatic transmission available in rear or all-wheel drive, this sedan is more performance-oriented than its predecessors.

Optional upgrade for the drivetrain consists of a 3.5-L V6 eight-speed automatic capable of 306 horsepower also comes as a six-speed transmission in all-wheel drive.

A more rigid chassis with high-performance tuning enhances its performance, giving competitors like the BMW 3 Series, the Mercedes-Benz C-class, the Audi A4, and the Cadillac ATS a serious run for their money.

The IS 250 has improved handling and class-leading steering with driver-selectable performance driving modes.

The IS 250 has 17-inch wheels and a fuel economy of 24 mpg combined on the rear-wheel drive option and 23 mpg combined on the all-wheel drive.

Awarded an overall five out of five stars in federal safety tests, the IS 250 is an excellent choice for a family sedan with serious style.

With plenty of exterior and interior color options, you'll be able to personalize your IS 250 to reflect your own unique style.

Seven choices are available for the exterior, including: Starfire Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl, Silver Lining Metallic, Atomic Silver, Obsidian, Matador Red Mica, and Deep Sea Mica.

Interior options include: Black Leather Linear, Stratus Gray Leather Linear, both in Dark Gray Wood Trim; Parchment Leather Linear, and Flaxen Leather Linear, both in Brown Wood Trim; and the new Piano Black Trim, which complements either the Black NuLuxe Illustrious, Parchment NuLuxe Illustrious, Stratus Gray NuLuxe Illustrious, or Flaxen NuLuxe Illustrious finishes.

The Sporty Sibling

If you like the sounds and specs of the Lexus IS 250 but wish it packed a little extra punch, you will want to consider the Lexus IS 250 F Sport.

Powered by 2.5-L V6 engine, the F Sport shares the same 204 horses as the IS 250. But with its details based off the Lexus LFA supercar, these horses certainly look more muscular.

The full-faced black mesh grille has bigger cooling ducts to protect against brake fade.

Heated and ventilated sports seats with enhanced bolsters complement a series of LFA-based features, including the gauges, steering wheel, shift knob, and aluminum sport pedals.

The interior is covered in luxurious perforated leather, with an optional Rioja Red NuLuxe trim. Even the 18-inch alloy wheels offer a nod to the LFA, sporting its original split-spoke design with either summer or all-season tires.

The F Sport also features upgraded brake pads and precise, highly responsive steering system. Engaging to drive, the Lexus IS 250 F Sport has been track-tested more than any other IS model.

Comfort Zone

Although both the IS 250 and IS 250 F Sport were extensively tested on famous stomping grounds, including the Fuji Speedway, and both reportedly boast extremely impressive and responsive steering, the major difference between these two comes down to their comfort zones.

Although its a quiet ride, which Lexus can be consistently relied on, the overall driving experience left much to be desired as far as ultimate comfort. But, drivers report that it is fun to drive. Zippy enough, with excellent handling and an energetic feel, the sort of experience you would expect to have when driving a sportier sedan.