2019 Lexus IS 300
What’s new
- Software updates improve engine response on rear-wheel-drive models
- New upgraded LED headlight option
- Amazon Alexa-integrated voice commands
- Part of the third Lexus IS generation introduced for 2013
Pros
- Ride quality is smooth and comfortable on bumpy roads
- Cabin is well-isolated from noise
- Offers more features for the money compared to German alternatives
Cons
- Optional Remote Touch infotainment system is distracting to use
- Handling capabilities don't create much driver excitement
- Lackluster acceleration
- A tighter back seat than those of rivals
2019 Lexus IS 300 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which IS 300 does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
7.2 / 10To reinterpret an old maxim about judging books, we recommend that you not judge a sport sedan by the size or shape of its grille. At rest, the 2019 Lexus IS 300 might look like an uncompromising machine, with its pinched grille, prominent air intakes and aggressive body lines. But make no mistake: The IS prioritizes comfort and cruising over athletic performance, owing to a well-honed ride, hushed cabin and a generous set of features.
Available with a turbocharged four-cylinder or a slightly more powerful six-cylinder engine, the IS 300 is best suited to relaxed driving with an occasional rip through an empty back road. Either engine makes the IS less sporty than its European rivals from Audi and BMW, or even its fellow Japanese competitor, the Infiniti Q50.
But where some of those rivals feel and ride a bit stiffer, or separate desirable features onto a pricey options sheet, the IS offers an alternative: all-day comfort and a broad range of standard equipment.
For 2019, the IS carries over largely unchanged, but there are a few updates of note. Trick new three-beam LED headlights are the most noticeable new option. Software updates reportedly deliver snappier engine response in the four-cylinder engine (though we haven't had a chance to confirm this ourselves), and there's also new voice command integration for Amazon Alexa devices. Alas, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay still aren't available.
While the IS 300 isn't as dynamic or powerful as its luxury sport-sedan peers, it still delivers in the right areas. The interior stands out in both design and quality, standard features are generous by any measure, and the convenience and safety tech are top-notch. It's a solid pick in this segment.
2019 Lexus IS 300 configurations
The 2019 Lexus IS 300 is part of the IS sedan lineup that includes the more powerful IS 350. The IS 300 is available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), which come with different engines. There is also an F Sport version that adds exterior elements and hardware that improves the IS 300's performance.
The IS 300 RWD has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (241 hp, 258 pound-feet of torque) and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, a sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, simulated-leather upholstery (NuLuxe), 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, Lexus Enform Remote vehicle controls, two USB ports, a 7-inch display, and an eight-speaker sound system with an auxiliary audio input, satellite radio and HD radio.
Standard driver assistance technology features include a rearview camera, automatic high beams, lane departure warning and intervention, adaptive cruise control, and a forward collision warning system with pedestrian detection and automatic braking.
The IS 300 AWD substitutes a 3.5-liter V6 engine (260 hp, 236 lb-ft of torque) and a six-speed automatic transmission. Heated front seats also come standard.
The IS 300 offers several option packages. The Comfort package adds automatic wipers, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, a power-adjustable steering wheel, driver-seat memory settings, and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems (available separately). A Premium package includes heated and ventilated front seats.
The Navigation package replaces the standard infotainment control dial with Lexus' Remote Touch joystick-type controller, a 10.3-inch display and a navigation system. A 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system can be added to this package.
For those who want to dial up the sporting factor, the F Sport adds revised styling, staggered-width 18-inch wheels (with either summer or all-season tires), a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, an intake sound generator that amplifies engine noise during acceleration, heated and ventilated front sport seats, and a special sport-oriented gauge cluster.
Stand-alone options include upgraded, triple-beam LED headlights, a power rear sunshade, front and rear parking sensors, an automatic parking system, and a heated steering wheel.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Lexus IS 200t F Sport (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 8-speed automatic | RWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2017, Lexus has renamed the IS 200t to be the IS 300 and introduced a few minor updates. Our findings remain applicable to this year's IS 300.
Driving
7.0Acceleration
7.0Braking
7.0Steering
6.5Handling
6.5Drivability
7.0Comfort
8.0Seat comfort
6.0Ride comfort
8.5Noise & vibration
8.5Climate control
8.0Interior
6.5Ease of use
8.0Getting in/getting out
6.5Roominess
5.5Visibility
7.0Quality
8.0Utility
7.5Small-item storage
7.0Cargo space
6.0Child safety seat accommodation
9.0Technology
6.5Audio & navigation
4.0Smartphone integration
6.0Driver aids
8.0Voice control
8.5Consumer reviews
There are no consumer reviews for the 2019 Lexus IS 300.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite IS 300 safety features:
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Monitors lane markings, warns if you are drifting, and can even help steer the vehicle back into the lane of travel.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Helps drivers maintain a preset distance by adjusting the vehicle's speed in relation to the vehicle directly ahead.
- Intelligent High Beam
- Switches between high and low beams automatically by using cues from a camera that helps detect when other vehicles are present.
People who viewed this also viewed
Lexus IS 300 vs. the competition
2019 Lexus IS 300
2018 Audi A4
Lexus IS 300 vs. Audi A4
The A4 will please most drivers seeking a sporty ride with athletic handling. The Audi's crisp steering and overall balance make it a driver's choice. And it not only has more infotainment tech available, it's easier to use. The IS isn't nearly as sharp as the A4, but it offers a more comfortable ride. The downside to the A4's dynamism is a stiff and sometimes jarring ride quality.
Lexus IS 300 vs. BMW 3 Series
Arguably the car that invented the sport sedan class decades ago, the 3 Series is the perennial benchmark in this segment. The 3 Series' combination of speed, handling, refinement and practicality created the checklist that other rivals aim for. Many come close or beat the 3 Series in other ways (more power, features), but none blend the ratios quite as precisely as the 3 Series.
Lexus IS 300 vs. Infiniti Q50
One of the IS 300's Japanese counterparts, the Q50 straddles both worlds of comfort and performance. It leans toward the latter, with zippy four- and six-cylinder engines, including an especially delightful twin-turbo V6 option at the top end. The Q50 is a little less refined than its Lexus rival, with an interior in particular that isn't as special to touch or look at. On the other hand, it's this lack of polish, specifically in engine power and response, that makes the Q50 the more visceral car.
2019 Lexus IS 300 for Sale
Get more for your trade-in
Edmunds shoppers get on average $235 more for their trade-in.
Receive offers from our dealer partners fast.
See your car's value2019 Lexus IS 300 Overview
The 2019 Lexus IS 300 is offered in the following submodels: IS 300 Sedan. Available styles include 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), F SPORT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), and 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A).
What do people think of the 2019 Lexus IS 300?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Lexus IS 300 and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 IS 300.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Lexus IS 300 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 IS 300 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Lexus IS 300?
2019 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
The 2019 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $41,785. The average price paid for a new 2019 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $1,005 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,005 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$40,780.
The average savings for the 2019 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is2.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 12 2019 Lexus IS 300 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2019 Lexus IS 300s are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 Lexus IS 300 for sale near. There are currently 18 new 2019 IS 300s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $42,279 and mileage as low as 6 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 Lexus IS 300. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $1,007 on a used or CPO 2019 IS 300 available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2019 Lexus IS 300s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Lexus IS 300 for sale - 8 great deals out of 13 listings starting at $16,916.
Find a new Lexus for sale - 7 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $12,277.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Lexus IS 300?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Lexus lease specials