The 2021 Lexus IS sedan comes in two models: IS300 and IS350 with several variations. The IS300 rear-wheel drive is powered by a 2.0L twin-scroll turbocharged 4-cylinder, which produces 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque that's mated to a Sport Direct-Shift 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The IS300, when optioned with all-wheel drive, features a 3.5L V6 making 260 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters. Finally, IS350 variants benefit from an even more potent 3.5L V6 that delivers 311 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Power is put to the rear wheels through the Sport Direct-Shift 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters. Both transmissions feature Sport, Normal and Eco modes and will match downshift revs when set in Sport mode.
All engines feature variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) to help boost economy and efficiency. As a result, the IS300 RWD offers 32 mpg on the highway, the IS300 AWD returns an estimated 26 mpg on the highway, and the IS350 is rated at 28 mpg.
Suspension across the lineup is fully independent, courtesy of double wishbones up front and a multilink setup in the rear. The IS300 RWD and IS300 AWD ride on 18-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, while the IS350 sits on 19-inch alloys.
All IS sedans come nicely equipped with standard features like HID headlights, LED daytime lights, dual-zone climate control, a next-generation Remote Touch Interface with 8-inch display, HomeLink universal transceiver, a 60/40 split-fold rear seat, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity and satellite radio. Additionally, each IS benefits from a suite of 10 airbags.
The IS 350 is only available as the F Sport, which improves handling with unique 19-inch wheels, high-friction brakes and aggressive suspension tuning. Exterior and interior design elements are also upgraded, including special instrumentation and F Sport heated and ventilated front seats. IS350 rear-wheel drive models so-equipped feature a limited-slip differential. On IS300 all-wheel drive and IS350 F Sport models, the intake sound is more aggressive, which creates a more sporting engine note.
Safety features across the lineup include an active lane departure system, forward collision mitigation, rear collision warning, pedestrian detection system, driver attention alert and traffic sign information.
Attractive Styling
Build Quality And Refinement
All-wheel Drive Availability
Technology Options
Excellent Range Of Engines
The Lexus IS rolls into 2021 with a few changes this year. A refresh of the exterior and lights, updated suspension and handling improvements start off the changes, while the infotainment system gets an update to the tech.
The mid-size performance sedan segment is well-populated, and the Lexus IS sedan more than holds its own among the offerings from Infiniti, BMW and Cadillac. With an impressive set of powertrains, continual refinement and Lexus' unbeatable build quality, the IS remains undeniably appealing among driver's cars.
