Why the IS350 F-Sport May Be the Best Car You'll Ever Own

Find You Fix in the F-Sport

Lexus’ entry-level sport sedan, the IS, has grown over the years and its current portfolio includes the IS200, IS300, and the IS350. At the top of the food chain is the IS350 F-Sport, incorporating the sporting technology of Lexus’ F Performance brand. Here is why it’s the top dog, and maybe the best car you will ever own.

1. The Looks

Let’s get this one covered first and foremost: this generation IS does the new corporate grille and styling that is on all new Lexus models. Decidedly aggressive and bold, we are glad to see Lexus imbue their cars with tight lines, creases, and the spindle grille, as it makes their cars stand out from the staid (mostly German) crowd.

2. The Powertrain

Headline figures: Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; a quick-shifting 8-speed transmission, and the ubiquitous 2GR-FSE 3.5L V6 engine. In the IS350 F-Sport, the V6 is cranking out 306hp and 277 lb/ft of torque, while returning up to 28mpg on the highway. That direct-fuel injected engine offers linear response and a refined V6 howl.

3. The Interior

It’s like an LFA in here, are you kidding me?! The steering wheel appears to have been lifted directly from Lexus’ own supercar, the LFA. This treatment continues into the digital dials and tachometer, which lends the IS some seriously sporting pedigree. Elsewhere, optional red leather bucket seats are suavely nestled into the cabin, which is filled with padded leather from the dash to the center console, and accentuated with satin aluminum dials. Any driver would be happy in here.

4. The Reliability

The 2GR-FSE engine is one of the most bulletproof engines on the market today, and many forum members attest to this, with 200-300,000 miles, unopened engines being the norm. Additionally, if well cared for, Lexus interiors will age beautifully, with nary a creak or rattle. This car might actually outlive you or me if cared for.

5. The Driving Experience

The IS350 F-Sport, with its double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive shock technology, offers sharp handling on smooth winding roads and is equally competent when the road gets rough with the adjustable damper settings. The engine is not frenetic, it doesn’t explode with power at the red line. Instead, it's tractable and willing. Like a great dance partner, it will let you lead and flatter your driving for mile after mile. The IS350 F-Sport is just as happy trundling along the daily commute as it is chasing apexes and that is why the IS350 F-Sport may well be the last you will ever own.

Join the IS350 F-Sport conversation right here in Club Lexus. 

For more information on maintenance and repairs, please check out our do-it-yourself technical articles at http://www.clublexus.com/how-tos/