Lexus IS350 F Sport
2014-2020
The IS350 F Sport embodies Lexus's philosophy of balanced performance, offering genuine rear-wheel drive dynamics wrapped in premium luxury appointments. It represents the brand's commitment to naturally aspirated engines when most competitors had moved to turbocharged powerplants.
Quick Take
The IS350 F Sport represents Lexus's attempt to inject sporting character into their compact luxury sedan. It features aggressive styling, sport-tuned suspension, and a naturally aspirated V6 that delivers smooth, linear power delivery characteristic of Lexus engineering.
Best For
Key Strength
Naturally Aspirated Character
Watch For
Power Disadvantage
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Part of the third-generation IS family, the XE30 generation marked Lexus's most aggressive styling evolution for the IS nameplate. The F Sport trim was introduced to compete directly with BMW's M Sport and Audi's S-Line packages, bringing visual aggression and chassis upgrades to the luxury compact segment.
Design Philosophy
The F Sport design language emphasizes angular, origami-inspired bodywork with the signature spindle grille dominating the front fascia. Interior design focuses on driver-centric ergonomics with premium materials, while maintaining the understated luxury aesthetic Lexus is known for.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The 2GR-FSE V6 delivers power in a distinctly linear fashion, building smoothly to its 6400 RPM redline without the punch of turbocharged rivals. It's an engine that rewards patience and smooth inputs, prioritizing refinement over raw excitement but still providing satisfying performance when pushed.
Chassis Dynamics
The F Sport suspension strikes a balance between comfort and engagement, offering controlled body motions without being harsh over imperfections. The steering is precise if not particularly communicative, and the chassis exhibits mild understeer but remains predictable and confidence-inspiring through corners.
Sound Signature
The V6 produces a refined growl that becomes more prominent under acceleration, though it lacks the dramatic soundtrack of its German rivals.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The 3.5L V6 delivers smooth, linear power with excellent throttle response that turbo engines can't match. The engine note is refined yet sporty, especially with the F Sport exhaust system providing a satisfying growl under acceleration.
Built on Toyota's proven platform with bulletproof mechanicals and exceptional quality control. This generation IS has consistently ranked among the most reliable luxury sport sedans with minimal recalls and low ownership costs.
Honest Tradeoffs
With 306 horsepower, the IS350 feels underpowered compared to turbocharged German rivals that easily exceed 400hp. The 8-speed automatic, while smooth, can be slow to respond in manual mode during spirited driving.
The naturally aspirated engine offers minimal gains from bolt-on modifications. Unlike turbocharged competitors, there's no easy path to significant power increases, limiting appeal for serious tuners.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for luxury sedan buyers who want sporting aesthetics and dynamics without sacrificing daily comfort or Lexus reliability.