Vehicle Tested
2014 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Sedan (3.5L V6 8-speed Automatic)
Driven On
3/12/2013
Ratings Summary
Even though Lexus says the IS was redesigned with enthusiast driving in mind, the new car, even the F Sport model, remains a few clicks off the top sport sedans in terms of handling feel. But its new interior is superbly made, and the longer wheelbase has made for a more livable rear seat.
B
Performance
The V6 is smooth but sneaky quick, with 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. This larger, heavier IS has lost some of the handling feel of the previous model. The BMW 3 Series remains the car to beat, at least when it comes to performance.
| Acceleration |
B
|
The V6 is unchanged, remains pleasant at all times. The IS 350 is one of the quickest cars in the class. New 8-speed automatic aids fuel economy, blips throttle on downshifts. |
| Braking |
A
|
The F Sport's upgraded pads were resistant to heat and fade on the track. There was a minor amount of instability when braking from very high speeds. No touchiness around town. |
| Steering |
B
|
Steering could be a bit more direct, but it's not bad considering this is electric assist. Weighting is appropriate for enthusiasts in Sport+ mode. |
| Handling |
B
|
The F Sport comes with two-mode driver-adjustable suspension, but it's constantly adapting between nine different levels regardless. Very good grip and a superbly-planted chassis. |
| Driveability |
A
|
Supple throttle delivery, smooth-shifting automatic and most folks will appreciate the light steering effort in Normal mode. |
A
Comfort
Comfort and luxury are two big parts of the Lexus IS game. We can't recall softer leather seats, ever. Even the F Sport model has a comfy ride, despite its sporty intentions. The cabin always keeps outside noise out.
| Seating Comfort |
A
|
The seats are covered with beautifully soft perforated leather. The F Sport seats have added side bolstering for cornering. Oddly, the passenger-side center armrest has cupholders. |
| Ride Comfort |
B
|
For the most part the F Sport's adaptive suspension delivers an even ride, with only occasional harshness. Even when the suspension is set to Sport+ it's totally livable. |
| Quietness |
A
|
On the highway you can't hear any engine or wind noise. At full throttle the V6 remains smooth, never obnoxious. Above 5,000 rpm the intake sound generator gives an extra snarl. |
B
Interior
The IS interior is generally a great place to spend time, with excellent control placement and a good driving position. Sore points include the lack of a front storage bin and poor rear head room. Leg room is better, though.
| Ergonomics |
A
|
The lower driver's seat position is a plus. Most controls have a quality feel, although the Remote Touch Controller is finicky. New finger-sliding temp controls work perfectly. |
| Ingress/Egress |
B
|
Very easy and natural to get in/out up front. The rear doors don't open super wide, and you have to duck a bit to keep from hitting your head on the roof. |
| Space/Room |
C
|
Head room is decent up front with generous elbow room. Leg and knee room have been improved in the rear, but head room is still tight for most adults. |
| Visibility |
B
|
A- and B-pillars are slim but the C-pillars are quite large and the rear beltline swings upward. Rear window is wide but not tall. Optional rearview camera has large screen. |
| Cargo/Storage |
C
|
The front door pockets are wide and have cupholders (rears do not). No front bin, awkward divider shelf in glovebox. Only average-sized center armrest bin. Trunk has wide opening. |
B
Value
Superb build quality and good durability mean Lexus vehicles hold their value well. The interior materials have a top-shelf feel, and for many that's worth the extra price you pay up front.
| Build Quality (vs. $) |
A
|
Very good materials and workmanship, as we've come to expect from Lexus. Different textures, surfaces and plenty of padded leather. The seats are fantastically supple. |
| Features(vs. $) |
C
|
The F Sport adds Adaptive Variable Suspension, LFA-type instruments, high-friction brake pads, 18-inch staggered-width tires and F Sport styling tweaks. |
| Cost |
B
|
Neither the IS 350 nor the F Sport come standard with navigation. And you'll have to pay extra for safety-related items such as a blind-spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert. |
| MPG |
C
|
Lexus predicts the IS 350 will garner a 19 city/28 highway/22 mpg combined rating from the EPA. That's a 1-mpg improvement on the highway due to the new 8-speed automatic. |
| Warranty |
B
|
The IS 350 has a 4 year/50,000 mile basic warranty and 6 year/70,000 mile drivetrain coverage. The basic warranty is average, but the drivetrain coverage is better than most. |
| Ownership |
A
|
Free roadside assistance for the first 4 years with unlimited miles. The first two scheduled maitenance visits are also complimentary. Lexus has a top reputation for durability. |
B
Fun To Drive
On a fun-to-drive measurement, we actually preferred the previous IS 350 F Sport, as it was a bit more lively, more engaging, with better steering and a playfull tail. The new one will probably prove superior in pure numbers.
| Driving Experience |
A
|
The IS 350, F Sport or regular, is plenty competent on a back road. But more than anything the IS delivers a thoroughly quiet, comfortable and luxurious sport sedan experience. |
| Personality |
B
|
You could say the new IS, particularly the F Sport version with its wild honeycomb grille, has a bit too much personality. The V6 now comes with an intake sound generator. |
