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How to import a Lexus IS 350 to Brisbane

The Lexus IS 350 (XE30) represents a significant departure from the brand's traditional luxury focus, offering a rear-wheel-drive platform with a 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) producing 311 horsepower.

About the Lexus IS 350

The Lexus IS 350 (XE30) represents a significant departure from the brand's traditional luxury focus, offering a rear-wheel-drive platform with a 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) producing 311 horsepower. Its driving dynamics are characterized by a stiff, torsion-rigid chassis and a 6-speed automatic transmission that, while not a purist's manual, delivers rapid shifts and robust torque delivery. Factory options like the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and the available 19-inch wheels enhance cornering precision, making it a compelling alternative to the BMW 335i for enthusiasts seeking reliability without sacrificing performance. The car's appeal lies in its understated aggression, with a lower center of gravity and superior NVH isolation compared to its European rivals. For JDM importers, the IS 350 offers a rare blend of Japanese engineering rigor and sports sedan responsiveness, ideal for buyers wanting a high-performance daily driver that retains strong resale value in the Australian market due to its proven longevity and lower maintenance costs than German equivalents.

Why import the Lexus IS 350 to Brisbane & Queensland?

AI-generated insights

The 2GR-FE 3.5L V6 engine is renowned for its exceptional durability and low maintenance requirements, featuring a robust chain-driven timing system that eliminates the need for expensive belt replacements common in other V6 platforms.

The chassis utilizes a high-rigidity unibody structure with aluminum subframes, providing superior torsional stiffness that enhances steering feedback and body control during aggressive cornering without compromising ride comfort.

Factory-fitted Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) on higher trims offers electronically controlled damping that adjusts in real-time to road conditions, providing a unique balance of sporty handling and luxury isolation that is difficult to replicate with aftermarket modifications.

Inspection watchouts & mechanical notes

  • Inspect the rear subframe and wheel arches for surface rust, as the JDM IS 350 is susceptible to corrosion in these areas due to salt exposure, which can compromise structural integrity if left untreated.
  • Check for oil leaks around the valve cover gaskets and the oil pan, as the 2GR-FE engine is known for developing seepage issues after 100,000 km, which can lead to expensive repairs if not addressed early.
  • Examine the condition of the rear differential and axle shafts for play or noise, as the RWD drivetrain components can suffer from wear if the vehicle has been driven aggressively, leading to costly driveline repairs.

Japanese auction prices for the Lexus IS 350

From 216 Japanese auction results for 2006–2010 models. Prices in Japan are FOB: the auction price plus the Japanese-side costs to the port. Landed estimates at ¥110.46 per A$1; past results, not a quote.

Median price in Japan
¥394,000
about $3,567 at today's rate
Typical range
¥344,000 – ¥529,000
the middle half of results
Estimated landed
about $11,167
typically $10,714 – $12,389
Sold a month in Japan
about 17
at the Japanese auctions

Resale: the IS350 holds its value a little better than average in our auction data — each older model year sells for about 8.7% less.

By model year
Model yearResultsMedian in JapanEst. landed (AUD)
201023¥552,000~$12,597
200919¥406,000~$11,276
200847¥440,000~$11,583
200760¥401,000~$11,230
200667¥353,000~$10,796
Example results, cheapest to dearest by model year
Year / variantKmGradePrice in JapanEst. landed (AUD)
2010 IS IS350C · 3,500cc · AT52,000 km3.5¥1,594,000~$22,031
2010 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT102,000 km4¥552,000~$12,597
2010 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT170,000 kmRA¥276,000~$10,099
2009 IS · 3,500cc · AT89,000 km4¥909,000~$15,829
2009 IS IS350 VERSION S · 3,500cc · AT150,000 km3.5¥406,000~$11,276
2009 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT178,000 kmRA¥276,000~$10,099
2008 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT96,000 km3.5¥917,000~$15,902
2008 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT109,000 km3.5¥440,000~$11,583
2008 IS · 3,500cc · AT194,000 kmRA¥283,000~$10,162
2007 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT31,000 km4¥853,000~$15,322
2007 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT92,000 km4¥401,000~$11,230
2007 IS IS350 VERSION L · 3,500cc · AT156,000 km3¥168,000~$9,121

All Lexus IS350 auction prices →

Estimated landed cost breakdown (Brisbane, QLD)

Expected auction hammer & export docs
$3,114 – $4,789 AUD (typical)
Shipping (Japan to Brisbane)
$4,000 AUD
Port to dealer transport
$250 AUD
Compliance & roadworthy
$1,500 AUD
Rego & stamp duty (approx.)
$350 AUD
Import service fee
$1,500 AUD
Est. total drive-away
$10,714 – $12,389 AUD

At today's rate of ¥110.46 per A$1: the same estimate as the import calculator. Japanese-built cars are generally duty-free under JAEPA. An estimate, not a quote.

Approved SEVS register variants

From the federal ROVER register of published approvals (checked 31/08/2026).

1 approved entry
Chassis codeVariant / specBuild rangeSEV approval
GSE21GSE21 variant with the 2GR-FSE engine08/2005 – 08/2010SEV-000995

Browse other Japanese vehicle import guides

All Japanese import guides A–Z →

Important pricing and vehicle availability disclaimer

The figures, auction results, specifications and images on this page are for information and feasibility guidance only. They are historical Japanese auction data, compliance estimates and general market benchmarks. Unless a car is marked as in stock at CarStrike, the vehicles described here are custom import sourcing possibilities from licensed Japanese vehicle auctions. Final drive-away costs vary with the exchange rate (JPY/AUD), the hammer price, the condition grade and roadworthy requirements.