Lexus IS 300 F Sport (2021) Review
Let's dive into the Lexus IS 300 F Sport (2021), a car that has been making waves in the compact executive sedan market. If you are in the market for a reliable, luxurious, and sporty ride, this might just be the car for you. The Lexus IS 300 F Sport blends performance with luxury, making it a compelling choice for drivers who want the best of both worlds. In this comprehensive review, we will explore everything this car has to offer, from its sleek design and powerful engine to its advanced technology and comfortable interior.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport boasts an aggressive and athletic stance that immediately catches the eye. The signature spindle grille, a hallmark of Lexus design, dominates the front fascia, flanked by sharp, angular LED headlights. These headlights not only provide excellent visibility but also add to the car's modern and sophisticated look. The sculpted lines and aerodynamic contours of the body enhance its sporty appeal, while also improving fuel efficiency by reducing drag. The F Sport variant adds unique touches such as a rear spoiler, distinctive badging, and exclusive alloy wheel designs, setting it apart from the standard IS 300 models. These elements combine to create a visually striking vehicle that exudes confidence and performance.
Moving along the sides, the car features pronounced wheel arches and a low-slung profile that emphasizes its sporty nature. The available 19-inch alloy wheels not only look fantastic but also contribute to the car's agile handling. The rear of the IS 300 F Sport is equally impressive, with L-shaped LED taillights that wrap around the corners and a subtle rear diffuser that adds to the aerodynamic efficiency. Overall, the exterior design of the Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a masterclass in blending elegance with athleticism, making it a standout in its class. The attention to detail and the quality of the materials used further enhance its premium feel, ensuring that it looks and feels like a true luxury sports sedan.
Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the Lexus IS 300 F Sport, you are greeted by a cabin that is both luxurious and driver-focused. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing excellent bolstering for spirited driving. The F Sport seats feature enhanced bolstering and unique trim options, further enhancing the sporty feel of the interior. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, with soft-touch surfaces and meticulous stitching adding to the sense of refinement. The dashboard is well-organized and intuitive, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, providing access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport also offers a range of advanced technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. The available Mark Levinson premium sound system delivers exceptional audio quality, while the Lexus Enform system provides access to a variety of connected services. The car also features a suite of advanced safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to keep you and your passengers safe and secure on the road. The spaciousness of the cabin ensures that both the driver and passengers can travel in comfort, even on long journeys. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making it a practical choice for families as well. Overall, the interior of the Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a testament to Lexus' commitment to luxury, comfort, and technology.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving, with smooth acceleration and responsive throttle response. The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers seamless gear changes, further enhancing the driving experience. The F Sport variant also features a sport-tuned suspension, which provides sharper handling and improved body control. This makes the IS 300 F Sport a joy to drive on twisty roads, with precise steering and minimal body roll.
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport also offers a variety of driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+. These modes allow you to tailor the car's performance to your preferences, whether you are looking for maximum fuel efficiency or exhilarating performance. In Sport+ mode, the engine and transmission are optimized for maximum performance, providing quicker acceleration and more aggressive gear changes. The IS 300 F Sport also features paddle shifters, allowing you to take control of the gear changes manually. The car's brakes are powerful and responsive, providing confident stopping power in all conditions. Overall, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport delivers a thrilling driving experience that is both engaging and rewarding. The combination of a powerful engine, sharp handling, and advanced technology makes it a standout in its class.
Technology and Features
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport is packed with cutting-edge technology and features that enhance both the driving experience and overall convenience. The infotainment system features a 10.3-inch display screen, which is easy to read and navigate. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The car also features a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you to stay connected on the go.
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport also offers a range of advanced safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to keep you and your passengers safe and secure on the road. The car also features a blind-spot monitoring system, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what is behind you, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The IS 300 F Sport also features a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. Overall, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a technological tour-de-force, offering a comprehensive suite of features that enhance both safety and convenience.
Fuel Economy
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport offers respectable fuel economy for its class. The EPA estimates that it achieves 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive with other compact executive sedans and make the IS 300 F Sport a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance driving. The car also features an Eco mode, which optimizes the engine and transmission for maximum fuel efficiency. This mode can help you save even more fuel on long trips. The IS 300 F Sport also features a start-stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when you come to a stop, further improving fuel efficiency in city driving. Overall, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a smart choice for drivers who want a car that is both fun to drive and economical to own.
Pricing and Value
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport is priced competitively within the compact executive sedan market. Its base price is comparable to other vehicles in its class, such as the BMW 3 Series and the Audi A4. However, the IS 300 F Sport offers a compelling value proposition, with its combination of luxury, performance, and advanced technology. The car also comes with Lexus' reputation for reliability, which can save you money on maintenance and repairs in the long run. The IS 300 F Sport also holds its value well, making it a good investment for the future. Overall, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport offers excellent value for money, making it a smart choice for drivers who want a luxurious and sporty sedan without breaking the bank.
Final Verdict
The Lexus IS 300 F Sport (2021) is a well-rounded and appealing choice in the compact executive sedan segment. It offers a blend of sporty performance, luxurious comfort, and advanced technology. Its aggressive exterior design and well-appointed interior make it a standout in its class. The IS 300 F Sport is also backed by Lexus' reputation for reliability, making it a smart choice for drivers who want a car that is both fun to drive and dependable. While it may not be the most powerful or technologically advanced car in its class, it offers a compelling value proposition that is hard to ignore. If you are looking for a luxurious and sporty sedan that is both practical and enjoyable to drive, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport is definitely worth considering. Its combination of style, performance, and reliability make it a winner in its class.
