Review of the 2021 IS by an automotive engineer. It is interesting to see the insights and professional insider perspective he brings to the review. I'm only halfway through watching it and already I found his comments on the shut lines and build quality informative.

 

Expect it sooner than later

 

That's only 155 lbs. that's not hard to accumulate given the long list of updates the new car has.

The suspension stuff is probably not quite as extensive as you'd think. Probably an arm here and there from the GS/RC parts bin which isn't really that big of a difference.

 

Makes sense. It gets very boring without having a much more nimble vehicle to use in inclement weather. Reminds me of the fall/winter of 2013 at JLR, either relying on my Def 90 (Cabrio) or my bikes, unless I borrowed my family members dormant vehicles instead. Not very favorable showing up to work in competitor vehicles, I had to find a daily driver more viable.

I am hopin the IS 500 is a thing, as that would make this Version 3 IS worth it. That is unless, IS 500 trademark is actually the next generation car and not a 2021/22 halo trim level?

That 2GR 3.5 they say has only been around since 2015 as 2GR-FKS, but the first version 2GR-FSE dates back to 2003/04. It's damn near 20 years!

 

The engine was class leading at that point in time. The 2IS was considered very quick during its time but the competition has improved drastically since then but the Lexus IS has remained stagnant. Really strange that Lexus chose to ignore performance for a sports sedan but it is what it is.

 

I think this review pretty much sums up why I went away from German cars (Audi, specifically) and bought an IS350 a few years back. And this was for a 2014 IS... I'm sure the new one is better in ride, handling, etc than mine. First, the IS felt better overall on the road than, say, and A4 or 3-series. It has a certain luxury feel that I don't get from the others. Second, reliability. I don't expect anything to go wrong on the Lexus, never have to worry about oil leaks or oil consumption or components failing... it's 100% worry free (i have a couple of 'weekend' cars that are Porsches that make me worry. :-) ).

Most reviews worry about the numbers rather than the feel of the car. Most IS reviews are fixated on carry-over components (like the engine) and don't objectively review the actual car. I think this review is spot-on.

 

From 10:41, the reviewer compares his driving impressions of the Lexus 2021 IS vs the Mercedes C-class, Audi A4, BMW 3 series and the Acura TLX. Seems like the revised suspension and chassis did its job.

 

He certainty likes the car. I laughed when he punches it and he's like "it's so fast!" And there is absolutely no movement of his and and body backwards. Lol.

I'm more interested in a comparo from Motortend when it comes out. I'm interested to see if they think the TLX Type S will be better.

 

Interesting.

 

To those that have their new IS, how’s the interior? Is it cramped?

I currently have a the more recent mustang. I was thinking about getting the new IS. I’m just wondering how it compares to the ecoboost mustang in all aspects, space-wise, ride quality, engine sound, etc.

 

That’s certainly a fun review! He likes it!
Funny about the engine sound. He says it must be coming through the speakers. Hopefully it is the same intake natural sound generator from the 2020.

The sound generator is now controllable like on the 200t if I am not mistaken.

He also mentioned the flip down mirrors in reverse.
I wasn’t aware. This is a Canadian model being tested so hopefully the US model will have that feature also?

 

I like the black wheels on the updated 3IS. Which trim models get it?

 

I think that you need the Dynamic Handling Package (DHP).

 

 

Just saw a fully loaded IS350 F-Sport in flesh today and I am in love!

Pictures don't do justice to the new design (especially the rear end). I was considering the 20' Supra as a replacement for my 15' IS350 F-Sport but now after looking at the new IS, I have changed my mind. The car looks absolutely stunning in person and has such a wide stance. The only downside is it's price, especially when considering the fact that it's using a 10-year old engine. But then, the build quality is rock solid and the car feels more premium than the last one, the Supra in comparison feels really cheap (materials wise).

Note: this is the GCC Spec Fsport model with parking sensors, automatic rear window blind, BSM, remote start, headlight washers and LED ambient lights all around.