Flash Drive

2015 LEXUS IS 350

July 29, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2015 Lexus IS350 AWD Sedan F Sport

The 2015 Lexus IS350 is largely unchanged from 2014, but that also means the driving fun is still a thrill.
The 2015 Lexus IS350 is largely unchanged from 2014, but that also means the driving fun is still a thrill.

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6 gas, 306 horsepower 277 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission, full-time all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 19City—26/Highway—21/Combined

Base Price: $42,300

As Tested: $50,375

Performance:

Strong, smooth V-6

Excellent transmission with paddle shifters

Multiple modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow

Snow mode makes IS350 a true all-seasons car

The excellent engine is the 3.5-liter V-6 which is rated at 306 hp.
The excellent engine is the 3.5-liter V-6 which is rated at 306 hp.

Sticks like glue on winding mountain roads

Pleasant highway ride

Adaptive Variable Suspension

Comfort:

Three temp heated and cooled front seats

Stretch out front legroom, but at expense of rear passengers

Thick, heated steering wheel

Good headroom

Soft headrests

Driver power lumbar wasn’t as firm as we like

Fronts seats are great with heat and cooling as part of the F Sport package.
Fronts seats are great with heat and cooling as part of the F Sport package.

Medium size sunroof

Back seat tight if fronts are all back

Minimal shoe space for rear passengers

Big, tall floor tunnel negates middle position for adults

Wide rear armrest

Utility:

Slick, computer style “mouse” and wrist rest for info screen navigating

Interior small items storage is minimal

Four, big overhead grab handles

Solid fit and finish

Wide trunk opening

Flat trunk floor

Split seats fold flat, but big height jump from trunk floor

The rear seat is best for two passengers.
The rear seat is best for two passengers.

No rear door bins

Very small console bin

Wow Factors:

Heated steering wheel and shifter knob

Confidence inspiring AWD

Great fun on twisty backroads

Neat info screen computer style controller

Whines:

Didn’t care for touch screen temperature controls

Still not crazy about grille, front fascia design

Bottom Line:

The 2015 Lexus IS 350 AWD sedan with the F Sport option is essentially unchanged from the previous model year, but that’s not a bad thing. The IS 350 is an exciting sport sedan that’s also a nice daily driver with special emphasis on the driver. It’s one of the most engaging models in the Lexus product line.