2021 Lexus IS300 Proves to Be a Solid Value

Bargain Hunting

While the bulk of the attention surrounding the refreshed 2021 Lexus IS has gone to the ritzier IS350 and F Sport, the IS300 offers a more affordable starting MSRP of just $39,000, which makes it attractive to those looking to stretch their dollars. The question is - will someone buying the entry-level IS regret their decision? Well, according to this review from the Texarkana Gazette, the answer is a resounding no.

Photos: Lexus

Trained Horses

Our reviewer compares the IS300 to rivals including the Volvo S60 T5 and the brand new Acura TLX, which only offers a four-cylinder powerplant. By comparison, the IS300's 260 horsepower V6 is a proper revelation. "Somehow Lexus has those horses trained to run in perfect harmony, and acceleration is delightful," the reviewer notes. "The IS AWD goes to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, according to Lexus. That's a tick faster than the S60 and almost a second faster than the TLX."

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS 300 right here in the ClubLexus forum.

Driving Dynamics

The performance fun doesn't stop with the acceleration, however, as the IS300 proves to be a winner when the roads get curvy, too. " Add the great driving dynamics to the spirited engine, and every road turns into the slalom in this car, and every little hill leaves me ready for takeoff. In fact, I'm going to stop writing this review and take the car out one last time before it goes back. It really is that much fun."

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS 300 right here in the ClubLexus forum.

Must Be a Lexus

Then there's the interior, which offers up the typical Lexus comfort and style. "From the start, the IS brings joy," the reviewer notes. "The steering wheel oozes softness, and the seat offers the right blend of support and comfort. And, as in every other Lexus, my wife commented on how nice the car was. And she's catching on, saying, "This must be a Lexus, right?'"

Photos: The Car Connection

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS 300 right here in the ClubLexus forum.

Couple Downsides

There are a couple of downsides to the IS, some of which we're already familiar with, of course. That includes a more compact cockpit that isn't the best for taller drivers, a smaller trunk than the competition, and the continued presence of that annoying touchpad, which just needs to go away altogether.

Photos: The Car Connection

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS 300 right here in the ClubLexus forum.

Real Treat

Otherwise, the entry-level IS proves to be a real treat, as well as a solid value for the money, and just a great car all around - regardless of price point. "Something about the Lexus just felt almost perfect, right from the start - the cabin, the steering, the handling, the engine performance. It definitely runs circles around the TLX and the S60, which are not bad vehicles at all," our reviewer concludes.

Photos: The Car Connection

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS 300 right here in the ClubLexus forum.

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