Review of the 2002 Lexus IS 300
-
Improvements this year make the IS 300 a true sport sedan. We feel sorry for those who couldn't wait and bought '01s.
- Safety | Reliability
-
Pros
Outstanding driving dynamics, slick interior decor, competitive pricing.
-
Cons
Small rear seat and trunk, not much storage space, styling more suited to baggy-panted masses.
-
What's New for 2002
Once a goal is set, Lexus is not a company to dillydally. Witness the 2002 IS 300. After just one year on the fiercely contested…
Read full review
What Others Are Saying
Customer Reviews
Full 2002 Lexus IS 300 Review
What's New for 2002
Once a goal is set, Lexus is not a company to dillydally. Witness the 2002 IS 300. After just one year on the fiercely contested entry-level luxury sport sedan battlefield, Lexus has quickly moved to address the IS 300's short list of faults. A five-speed manual transmission is available, and it comes packaged with a sportier suspension than what is offered on the "regular" IS 300. The luxury side of the equation has also been upped. A navigation system and an all-leather interior are optional this year, and the rearview and driver-side mirrors are auto-dimming. Safety is also enhanced with the addition of head-protecting side curtain airbags (in addition to the regular side airbags), a BrakeAssist function and a stability control system. And for all of those golden retrievers out there tired of riding around in numbing RX 300s, take notice that Lexus has expanded the IS 300's lineup with a wagon version.
(5 out of 5)