Flash Drive

2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport

June 22, 2021 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2021 Lexus IS 350 AWD Sedan F Sport

The 2021 Lexus IS 350 F-Sport is a luxurious sport sedan that can be equipped with AWD.

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 311 horsepower, 280 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 19-mpg city, 26-mpg highway, 22-mpg combined

Base Price: $44,900

As Tested: $56,960

Performance:

Adaptive Handling package has adaptive shocks

Sporty handling without being jarring

Good fuel economy—our best was 27.8-mpg highway

The Lexus IS 350 comes in several very bright optional colors like this Ultrasonic Blue.

Engine modes: Eco, Normal/Custom, Sport and S/S+

Separate mode button for snow

Paddle shifters

Fun to drive spiritedly

Comfort:

Upscale interior materials

Super stretch-out driver legroom

Outstanding front passenger room

Heated and ventilated front seats (3 temps)

Firm, but supportive driver’s seat with power lumbar

Bold interior colors are also available like bright red in F-Sport models. The seats are comfortable and supportive.

Very nice, thick, contoured, heated leather wheel

Lots of auxiliary controls

Manual tilt/telescopic column with good range

Side of console padded where knee rests

Tight back seat unless fronts are moved up a lot

Fold-down rear armrest with cupholders

Very tall floor tunnel

Utility:

Backseat room is affected by how far back the front seats are. The backseat can be snug.

Very informative instrument panel with lots of options

Medium size front door bins

Big, wide infotainment screen

Improved touchpad controls

Old school knobs for radio channels/volume

Small, locking glovebox; but manual hogs space

Two seatback pouches

Split rear seats fold flat

Wide pass-through

The thick, contoured leather steering wheel is a pleasure to hold for hours on end.

Big height difference from trunk floor

Decent size trunk with flat floor and cargo loops

High lift-over (7-inches)

WOW Factors:

Fun to drive

Handsome, aggressive, sporty styling

Optional Infrared paint worth the extra cost

Great front seat comfort, space, amenities

Excellent performance and handling

The rear styling is sleek with all elements working together for a very cohesive look.

Whines:

No lumbar support for front passenger

No rear door bins

Tight back seat

Bottom Line:

The 2021 Lexus IS 350 AWD F Sport is a real sport sedan, not some wannabe with excessive scoops and spoilers. The AWD F Sport adds a lot to the base IS 350. The various drive modes allow one to drive anywhere from eco-conscious to snow to aggressive all the while enjoying comfortable, luxurious accommodations.