2020 Lexus IS 350
What’s new
- A new Blackline edition debuts with dark cosmetic treatments
- Part of the third Lexus IS generation introduced for 2013
Pros & Cons
- Ride quality is smooth and comfortable on bumpy roads
- Cabin is well isolated from noise
- More features for the money compared to German alternatives
- Optional Remote Touch infotainment system is distracting to use
- No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration
- Handling capabilities don't create much driver excitement
- A tighter back seat than those of rivals
2020 Lexus IS 350 Review
Among luxury sedans, there's a sliding scale with comfort on one side of the spectrum and performance on the other. The 2020 Lexus IS 350 lands closer to comfort, which should appeal to plenty of drivers.
Mainly, it's the 350's softer suspension tuning that has the greatest effect. It provides a smooth ride quality but diminishes handling and driver engagement. That can be either a drawback or a benefit, depending on what you prefer. The optional F Sport package sharpens handling a bit, but it doesn't change the car's overall personality much. As for power, the 350, with its 311-horsepower V6, is the most powerful version of the IS lineup. Acceleration is respectable, but rival performance sedans are certainly more potent.
For 2020, the IS 350 returns mostly unchanged. It gains a new Blackline edition that adds a number of dark exterior and interior styling elements. Otherwise, the IS continues where it left off, providing a quiet cabin and a long list of features for the money. Its greatest liability lies in the optional Remote Touch infotainment interface that requires too much driver attention to operate properly. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support is another drawback.
If your preferences on the comfort-to-performance continuum skew toward comfort, the 2020 Lexus IS 350 could be worth a look. We suggest also checking out the refined Audi A4, sporty Genesis G70 or chic Volvo S60. All of these small luxury sedans are a little more appealing overall.
Which IS 350 does Edmunds recommend?
Lexus IS 350 models
The 2020 Lexus IS 350 is a five-passenger small luxury sedan that tops the IS lineup. It's only available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (311 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque). It can be paired with rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission or all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic.
Standard features highlights include LED headlights, a sunroof, simulated leather upholstery (NuLuxe), a 7-inch color display, and an eight-speaker sound system. The IS 350 AWD also comes with heated front seats. Standard driver assistance technology includes lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and a forward collision warning system with automatic braking.
The IS 350 offers a handful of option packages. You can boost the car's luxury and convenience features with the Comfort and Premium packages. The Navigation package replaces the standard infotainment control dial with Lexus' Remote Touch joystick-type controller, a bigger screen 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, there's the F Sport package with revised styling, different wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a limited-slip rear differential (RWD only), and a few other upgrades. For strict aesthetics, you can opt for the new Blackline package that adds dark exterior and interior trim elements.
Sponsored cars related to the IS 350
Features & Specs
| F SPORT 4dr Sedan 3.5L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $45,375 |
| MPG | 20 city / 28 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
| F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD 3.5L 6cyl 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $46,710 |
| MPG | 19 city / 26 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
| 4dr Sedan AWD 3.5L 6cyl 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $44,345 |
| MPG | 19 city / 26 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
| 4dr Sedan 3.5L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $42,180 |
| MPG | 20 city / 28 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite IS 350 safety features:
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Monitors lane markings, warns you 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.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4 / 5 |
| Driver | 4 / 5 |
| Passenger | 4 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 5 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 9.5% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Lexus IS 350 vs. the competition
Lexus IS 350 vs. Audi A4
The Audi A4 is our top-rated pick in its class, with little to fault. It's far more engaging to drive than the Lexus IS, with sharp steering and sporty handling. It doesn't pack as much power, but most drivers should find the A4 adequate enough not to spend more for the sportier S4. The trade-off is that the A4's stiffer ride quality isn't as smooth as the IS 350's.
Lexus IS 350 vs. Volvo S60
The recently redesigned Volvo S60 is a joy to drive, and its Scandinavian design sets it apart from other sedans from Germany and Japan. We give it high marks for interior quality, Volvo's focus on safety, comfortable seats and strong overall performance. The infotainment system may take some getting used to, and the optional sport suspension could be too stiff for some, but otherwise the S60 is a commendable alternative.
Lexus IS 350 vs. BMW 3 Series
BMW essentially invented the luxury sport sedan class with the 3 Series, but the latest redesign wasn't enough to claim the top spot. Compared to the IS 350, the 3 Series has a higher ceiling for performance and offers more available technology features. But you'll probably end up paying more for the 3 Series.
FAQ
Is the Lexus IS 350 a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Lexus IS 350?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Lexus IS 350:
- A new Blackline edition debuts with dark cosmetic treatments
- Part of the third Lexus IS generation introduced for 2013
Is the Lexus IS 350 reliable?
Is the 2020 Lexus IS 350 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Lexus IS 350?
The least-expensive 2020 Lexus IS 350 is the 2020 Lexus IS 350 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $42,180.
Other versions include:
- F SPORT 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $45,375
- F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) which starts at $46,710
- 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) which starts at $44,345
- 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $42,180
What are the different models of Lexus IS 350?
More about the 2020 Lexus IS 350
2020 Lexus IS 350 Overview
The 2020 Lexus IS 350 is offered in the following submodels: IS 350 Sedan. Available styles include F SPORT 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A), F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), and 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A).
What do people think of the 2020 Lexus IS 350?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Lexus IS 350 and all its trim types. 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 2020 IS 350.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Lexus IS 350 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 IS 350 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 2020 Lexus IS 350?
2020 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
The 2020 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $48,495. The average price paid for a new 2020 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $5,134 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,134 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $43,361.
The average savings for the 2020 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is 10.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 6 2020 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT 4dr Sedan AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2020 Lexus IS 350s 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) 2020 Lexus IS 350 for sale near. There are currently 15 new 2020 IS 350s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $48,670 and mileage as low as 0 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 AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Lexus IS 350. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $2,838 on a used or CPO 2020 IS 350 available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2020 Lexus IS 350s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Lexus IS 350 for sale - 6 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $8,444.
Find a new Lexus for sale - 8 great deals out of 18 listings starting at $15,174.
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 2020 Lexus IS 350?
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