Let's dive into the Lexus IS 350 F Sport (2022). This car is a solid blend of luxury, performance, and sporty styling, making it a compelling option in the compact sports sedan market. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its design and performance to its interior and tech features, so you can decide if it's the right car for you.

Exterior Design

The Lexus IS 350 F Sport immediately catches your eye with its aggressive and athletic stance. The signature spindle grille, a hallmark of modern Lexus design, is prominent and flanked by sharp, angular LED headlights. These headlights not only look great but also provide excellent visibility at night.

The F Sport trim adds even more visual flair. You'll notice a unique mesh pattern in the grille, more aggressive front and rear bumpers, and distinctive badging. The car's silhouette is sleek and aerodynamic, with a low-slung profile that hints at its sporty intentions. The sculpted lines and subtle curves create a sense of motion even when the car is standing still.

Moving to the rear, the IS 350 F Sport features stylish LED taillights connected by a full-width light bar, a design element that's becoming increasingly popular in modern cars. The rear diffuser and dual exhaust outlets add to the sporty aesthetic, making it clear that this is no ordinary sedan. The overall design is modern, refined, and sure to turn heads wherever you go. The design is meticulously crafted with aerodynamic efficiency in mind, reducing drag and improving fuel economy while enhancing stability at higher speeds. The attention to detail in the exterior design is evident, from the perfectly aligned panels to the high-quality paint finish. Lexus has truly created a visually stunning vehicle that stands out in a crowded market.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport packs a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a punchy 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The car can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.6 seconds, which is respectable for its class. The engine is smooth and responsive, offering a satisfying driving experience.

The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned and provides quick, seamless shifts. It also features paddle shifters on the steering wheel, allowing you to take control and engage in a more involved driving experience. The transmission is designed to optimize both performance and fuel efficiency, ensuring that you get the most out of every drop of gas.

One of the standout features of the IS 350 F Sport is its handling. The car feels planted and composed in corners, thanks to its sport-tuned suspension and precise steering. The F Sport package includes adaptive variable suspension (AVS), which adjusts the damping force of the shock absorbers in response to road conditions and driving style. This technology helps to minimize body roll and improve overall handling, providing a more engaging and confident driving experience. The brakes are also strong and provide excellent stopping power, giving you peace of mind in emergency situations. The combination of a powerful engine, smooth transmission, and precise handling makes the IS 350 F Sport a joy to drive on both city streets and winding roads.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the Lexus IS 350 F Sport, you're greeted with a well-appointed and luxurious cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The F Sport seats feature enhanced bolstering, which helps to keep you in place during spirited driving. The interior is finished with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery, and aluminum trim.

The design of the dashboard is modern and driver-focused, with all the controls within easy reach. The center console is well-organized and features a large infotainment display. The F Sport trim adds unique touches such as aluminum pedals, a black headliner, and F Sport badging, which further enhance the sporty feel of the interior. The cabin is also surprisingly spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate two adults, making the IS 350 F Sport a practical choice for families. The attention to detail in the interior is evident, from the precise stitching on the seats to the solid feel of the switchgear. Lexus has created a comfortable and inviting cabin that makes every journey a pleasure.

Technology and Features

The Lexus IS 350 F Sport comes equipped with a wide range of advanced technology features. The infotainment system is controlled by a 10.3-inch display, which can be operated via a touchpad controller on the center console. The system includes features such as navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration.

The car also features a premium sound system, which delivers crystal-clear audio quality. Other notable tech features include a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, and a suite of advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These safety features help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

The IS 350 F Sport also offers a variety of convenience features, such as keyless entry, push-button start, and a power moonroof. The car is equipped with a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. The technology in the IS 350 F Sport is designed to enhance both the driving experience and overall safety, making it a well-rounded and technologically advanced vehicle. The user interface of the infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, ensuring that you can access all the features you need without any hassle.

Fuel Economy

Regarding fuel economy, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These figures are decent for a car with this level of performance, although some competitors offer slightly better fuel efficiency. The actual fuel economy you achieve will depend on your driving style and conditions.

If you're looking to maximize fuel efficiency, you can select the Eco mode, which adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel conservation. However, keep in mind that this will reduce the car's performance. The IS 350 F Sport also features a fuel-saving start-stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when you come to a complete stop and restarts it when you release the brake pedal. This system can help to save fuel in stop-and-go traffic. Overall, the fuel economy of the IS 350 F Sport is reasonable for its class, but it's not the most fuel-efficient option available.

Pricing and Value

The Lexus IS 350 F Sport is priced competitively within the compact sports sedan market. The base price starts at around $45,000, but the final price will depend on the options and packages you choose. While it's not the cheapest option in its class, the IS 350 F Sport offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and features, making it a good value for the money.

When considering the value of the IS 350 F Sport, it's important to factor in the car's reliability and resale value. Lexus has a reputation for building reliable cars, and the IS 350 F Sport is expected to hold its value well over time. This means that you'll likely get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade in the car. Additionally, Lexus offers a comprehensive warranty, which provides peace of mind and protects you from unexpected repair costs. Overall, the IS 350 F Sport offers a strong value proposition, thanks to its combination of luxury, performance, features, reliability, and resale value.

Final Verdict

The 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is a well-rounded sports sedan that offers a satisfying driving experience, a luxurious interior, and a host of advanced technology features. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient or the most affordable option in its class, it stands out for its blend of performance, luxury, and reliability. If you're looking for a stylish and engaging sports sedan that's also comfortable and practical, the IS 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the IS 350 F Sport will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, if you value performance, luxury, and reliability, this car is definitely worth a closer look.

It's a car that manages to strike a balance between daily usability and sporty driving dynamics, making it a great choice for those who want a car that can do it all. Plus, with the added reliability and strong resale value that Lexus is known for, you can be confident that you're making a smart investment. So, if you're in the market for a compact sports sedan, be sure to check out the 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport. You might just find your next dream car!