Lexus IS has been around for a while. Launched back in 2001, the IS was an entry point to the Lexus lineup followed by the GS, ES, and the flagship LS. Given how the automotive industry has shifted towards SUVs and compact crossovers, carmakers are taking a step back when it comes to sedans.
Most carmakers like Toyota are opting for the safest route by bringing slight revisions and updated infotainment. With the Lexus IS, the brand is not very keen on spending a lot of money and makes do with a few styling revisions. The Lexus “Intelligent Sport” comes as a 300 and 350 along with their respective AWD versions. The IS 350, however, adds a bit of sportiness to the otherwise stately appeal of an IS.
For 2021, the IS 350 comes in a single F Sport trim with a slightly updated infotainment and a visual makeover. Pricing starts at $42,900 for the RWD F Sport and $44,900 for the AWD model. Here’s us taking an in-depth look at the 2021 Lexus IS 350.
3 2021 Lexus IS 350: Engine And Drivetrain
The 2021 Lexus IS 350 comes with the tried and tested 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 putting out 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Lexus has been sticking on to the V6 for quite a while now. The Toyota developed V6 was a very powerful unit when it was introduced but with the likes of the BMW 3-series pumping 380 horsepower and Audi V6’s pushing 335 horsepower, Lexus is a bit behind. All of the competition has in fact moved on to forced induction whereas Lexus still a naturally aspirated unit.
Although aside from the torque disadvantage, there’s really no problem with the V6. If anything, the engine is one of the most refined units in the luxury midsize segment. The buttery smooth V6 in the IS 350 is mated to an 8-speed automatic in the RWD model while AWD variants get a 6-speed unit. Both these units have seen better days, when compared to its adversaries, the box seems to struggle with gear changes and is due for an upgrade.
2 2021 Lexus IS 350: Exterior And Interior
This is where the Lexus IS 350 has seen the most changes. The exterior design has been reworked to offer a modern touch. Gone are the ugly set of headlamps which to be honest felt like it was an afterthought. In comes a new set of LED headlights with a ‘Nike-inspired’ daytime running light. Bumpers too have seen a revision with sharper cuts and creases. The spindle grille dominates the front fascia and is one of the unique attractions of modern-day Lexus vehicles. The rear has been redone as well with sleeker taillights that now come with a light bar running the width of the car. The F Sport additions include rather stylish 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels and a lip spoiler on the trunk.
1 2021 Lexus IS 350: Is It Worth $43,000
Honestly, no. Given the vast majority of options offered by other marques, it’s fairly easy to overlook the Lexus IS 350. Though it gets a buttery smooth V6 and killer styling, that’s the only strong suit that we could find. The driving experience is a lot better in the all-new 2021 BMW 3-series and in terms of technology, both Mercedes and Audi far outweighs whatever Lexus has to offer. Lexus understands how the market has shifted to SUVs and the company has been focussing a lot on their crossovers. Give that Acura has updated its TLX entirely for 2021, there is still a market for midsize luxury sedans in America. If Lexus really wants a slice of that, they’ll have to up their game significantly.