Hey all, just leased the 2017 IS300 AWD base model and I've been loving it. I don't know too much about cars and didn't know the f sport came with the cool dashboard - at the time, I just thought 6k more for a different grill is def not worth it. Are there any other differences between the base and f sport model? I couldn't find too much about the IS300, mostly a lot of stuff about the IS200t. A little regret not knowing about that moving gauge but still love the car!

 

Fsport includes:

LFA Instrument panel
Fsport bucket seats (Nuluxe)
Black headliner
Fsport 18' rims
Fsport Grill
Sport Pedals
If IS350, SPORT + mode (avs)

This is what came up on the top of my head, everything imo is mostly cosmetic changes. Only FUNCTIONAL is the AVS for the is350 fsport

 

I would add to that list the "F Sport tuned suspension" (non-AVS), aluminum pedals, high friction brake pads, silver interior trim, and LED headlights (optional on other trims).

 

Thanks all. So mainly cosmetic changes for the IS300, and IS350 actually has functional changes. Are the two models exactly the same from the outside? Not sure if f sport also has different wheel sizes in front and back. Also, doesn't the base model have 18inch wheels as well? They look like the same size and I actually prefer the new base rims to the f sport one.

 

The F-sport models are all the same look. The only difference in function is the AVS (but man...is that a BIG difference).

 

What about base is300 versus is300 f sport? Would the exterior be the same? I would think f sport will have a wider body and maybe more aggressive stance (lowered, maybe staggered tires, etc). Just curious as I am having difficulty finding information on this for the IS300.

 

is300 vs is300 fsport is cosmetic changes. Its exactly the same size. However, it the fsport will have 18' staggered wheels plus all the other amenities of the fsport minus the AVS (only available for the is350).

*the is300 will have 17' square setup.

 

nathantse's list is correct: add perforated leather steering wheel and shifter trim,
Stainless door sills w/ Lexus logo, "Unique VDIM calibration" (Vehicle Dynamic Integration Management)
and the all important Intake Sound Generator! The wheels are then "Staggered" with 225/40-18's on
"8 wide fronts and 255/35-18's on "8.5 rears instead of the IS300 base 255/45-17's all around.
kyk: the base car's "18 wheels are an option to the "17's and I also think they are stunning to see!

 

No, I have an IS 300 F Sport, and it has staggered 18" wheels. It's not just cosmetic, either. With the F Sport you still get the high-friction brake pads, sport-tuned suspension, LFA instrument panel (arguably NOT cosmetic), a different steering wheel wrap, F Sport seats, and black headliner.

 

Thanks! Yeah I believe I have the 18inch w the base model. Next time I will probably look @ the f sport more, had no idea there were other differences than the grill.

 

The F-Sport's differences from the base model are mostly cosmetic although it does have a motorized LCD gauge - puts the nav in the dash, sports suspension that adjusts a little bit, and 18" wheels. Also, you should get real leather seats instead of the pleather crap F-Sports are given. All that being said, I like that my F-Sport looks angry and can still get me through a snow filled road without it.

 

I'd recommend the OP try out the seats first - many times people prefer the Nuluxe.

 

Mine does have the flaxen nuluxe I believe

 

Whats your issue with the pleather on the f-sport? for me it's been great the last 3 years, I don't miss leather one bit.