Review: 2021 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT

The Lexus IS 350 AWD F SPORT is the first of a new generation of Lexus vehicles that will be uniform across the Lexus lineup. The Lexus Driving Signature will be more balanced, refined in control, and confident; and driving performance will be enhanced through rigidity as well as chassis and suspension enhancements. Additionally, larger 19-inch wheels can be expected to improve cornering force and provide a greater contact patch with the road. Overall, the IS 350 is lighter with 20% lighter coil springs, 18% lighter A-arms, and a suspension stabilizer bar that is 17% lighter. To boot, BBS wheels are also approximately four pounds lighter per wheel. There's no doubt that the FSPORT platform will be fast, fun, and ferocious achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The exterior design offers a unique front bumper and functional aerodynamic enhancements which includes a strategically executed rear bumper, grille surround, and rear lip spoiler. The vehicle also features numerous cool air intakes for improved speed and handling along with a SPORT exhaust and diffuser. Inside, the F SPORT front seat surfaces are stylish as is the D-shaped F SPORT leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-wrapped console shifter. A new Lexus safety system+ 2.5 (LSS+) offers enhanced standard safety features including blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, and much more.

Finding the perfect balance of sportiness and sophistication is no easy task, but the 2021 Lexus IS walks that fine line with an air of elegance and effortlessness.

Lexus

In the News

Source: Lexus | From day one, the IS has left a lasting impression in the compact luxury sports sedan segment, where dynamic capability and driving performance are mandatory attributes. The 2021 IS looks to further cement the bond between driver and vehicle by providing an enhanced linear driving characteristic that provides clear and direct feedback to the driver. In order to achieve this objective, Lexus engineers needed the proper tool with which to hone the vehicle's skills. Enter the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. More than merely a new test facility, this asphalt track signals a change in Lexus' product development course and speaks to the brand's commitment to its human-centered nature. Since Lexus launched, the tactile feel, behavior, and execution for each model has been driven by the vision and efforts of the Chief Engineer. Moving forward, the efforts of the CE will be focused on elevating the vehicles to a new standard of performance and handling as developed by Lexus International President Koji Sato and Chief Branding Officer Akio Toyoda. The ultimate goal is to deliver a new generation of Lexus vehicles that is more balanced, refined in control, and confident than ever before. Linear steering, brake responses, and optimized handling with exceptional ride quality is the result of heightened focus on tuning of the chassis and its interactions with the control surfaces through diligent evaluation at a test facility unlike any other.

Specifications

Engine: 311 horsepower 3.5-liter V6
Torque: 280 pound-feet
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Wheels: 19-inch staggered width
Sound: Mark Levinson multimedia system with 10.3-inch touchscreen
Color: Matador Red Mica
Fuel: 20/28/23 (mpg city/highway/combined)
MSRP (starts): $42,950
MSRP (shown): $44,900

Learn More

For more information or to test drive a 2021 Lexus IS 350 for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit:
Lexus | IS 350

About Lexus

Lexus launched in 1989 with a flagship sedan and a guest experience that helped define the premium automotive industry. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. The luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world's first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 1.5 million hybrid vehicles. A global luxury automotive brand with an unwavering commitment to bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries worldwide. Lexus associates/team members across the world are dedicated to crafting amazing experiences that are uniquely Lexus, and that excite and change the world.