2019 Lexus IS350 F Sport Details in Closeup

Lexus IS 350

Car shoppers who are interested in a nice sports sedan with a reputation for reliability should give the Lexus IS350 a test drive. It is also a sharp looking machine, especially this one with its metallic blue paint. Actually called "Ultrasonic Blue Mica", it costs an extra $595.

Photos by Chad Haire

Under the Hood

The IS350 comes with a 3.5 liter V-6 cranking 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It is hooked to an 8-speed transmission. Fuel economy is claimed to be 20/28 mpg. 0-60 time is just under 6 seconds.

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Paddle Shifters

Paddle shifters are standard issue for those who want to choose gears manually. Their steering wheel location is well placed, making them easy to use.

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F Sport Emblem

To jazz the IS350 up a notch, order the F Sport option. For $3,195, it includes larger wheels/tires, special instrument cluster, vented front seats, leather trim, adaptive suspension, limited-slip differential, and cosmetic features.

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Headlights

These triple beam headlights put out plenty of light, but will set you back $1,160 extra.

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Wheels

The F Sport comes with 18-inch sport 5-spoke wheels with 225/40R18 rubber in front, and 255/35R in the rear. This assists traction when taking high-speed corners.

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Gauge Cluster #1

The F Sport gauge package allows two choices. Here the main gauge is in the center.....

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Gauge Cluster #2

…..or press a button, and the gauge moves to the right, providing an information screen on the left.

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Navigation Control Stick

Instead of the finger touchpad found on some other Lexus vehicles, the IS350 uses a control stick, which is easier to operate when the car is in motion.

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Driving Mode Control Knob

The traction control can be turned off at the push of a button. The round knob above allows five driving choices; ECO, NORMAL, CUSTOM, SPORT, and SPORT+.

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Clock

Yes, we get a real clock that will work after the warranty runs out.

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Navigation Buttons

To pull up navigation, just press this MAP button, a very simple task. Also, the front seats can be heated or cooled by manipulating the two buttons above.

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Screen

The navigation/infotainment screen is large enough and the controls are easy to work with.

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Price Sheet

The base price of $41,930 is reasonable, but the options list can get long. This brought our bill to $52,608.

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IS 350 Badge

The IS350 has plenty of power, but buyers who want better fuel economy can get the IS 300 sedan with a four-cylinder turbo engine putting out 241 horsepower.

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