Lexus IS 2021 review: IS350 snapshot

The IS350 is the flagship model in the Lexus IS 2021 range, and unlike the previous model, it now only comes in F Sport trim.

That seems pretty fitting really, as this is the most powerful engine of the range, and the F Sport name fits better here than anywhere else in the range. It runs a 3.5-litre petrol V6 engine producing 232kW of power and 380Nm of torque. It has an eight-speed auto with paddle shifters, and is rear-wheel drive. Fuel consumption is claimed at 9.5L/100km. 

The IS350 F Sport lists at $75,000 (MSRP) and comes pretty well kitted out for the cash. It has a body kit, 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension, sports front seats with cooling (plus heating and electric adjust, plus driver’s seat memory settings), sports pedals, and five drive modes, an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster and leather-accented trim.

Explore the 2021 Lexus IS range

• Lexus IS 2021 review: IS300h snapshot
• Lexus IS 2021 review: IS300 snapshot
• Lexus IS 2021 review: IS350 snapshot
• Lexus IS 2021 review
• Lexus IS 2021 review: 300 Luxury
• Lexus IS 2021 review: 350 F Sport

That’s in addition to the other standard gear: auto LED headlights with auto high beams, LED daytime running lights, proximity keyless entry with push-button start, a 10.3-inch touchscreen with sat nav and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The steering column has power adjustment, there’s dual-zone climate control, rain sensing wipers, and adaptive cruise control.

Buying the F Sport Enhancement Pack for the IS300 costs $3100 and includes the sunroof, 17-speaker sound system and rear sunshade. If only you could just get the stereo!

Safety spec is well accounted for, with AEB comprising pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert with auto braking, lane keeping assist, intersection turn assist and new Lexus Connected Services for emergency backup.