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After spending a week behind the wheel of the 2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport, the experience was a mix of thrills and room for improvement. Here’s a sharp breakdown of the five things that impressed—and five that fell short.
Why the F Sport Package Makes a Difference
The standout feature is certainly the F Sport package. It transforms the IS with a front grill that demands attention and a suspension set-up that’s no joke. The ride handles curves so well that even a water bottle in the cupholder can’t stay put during spirited turns. Inside, the seats hug you firmly, and there’s a cool LFA-inspired instrument cluster with a moving ring that adds a tasteful dash of performance flair.
Sound on Demand and a Premium Audio Setup
Not many cars offer the option to switch engine sound profiles at the flick of a button. The IS 300 F Sport lets you turn up the volume for a livelier drive or dial it back for quiet cruises—both feel appropriate in different moods. Add to that an optional 15-speaker, 835-watt Mark Levinson surround sound system that punches well above its weight. It hits good bass without shaking the cabin to bits, striking a rare balance luxury music lovers will appreciate.
Options for Every Taste Under the Hood
The car offers three different powertrain choices: a turbocharged engine and two naturally aspirated V6s. This variety caters to drivers who prioritize anything from efficiency to raw power, although there’s a flip side to these options (more on that later). What’s certain is that Lexus’ well-known reliability and resale value make owning one a smart luxury buy.
What Wears Thin: Ergonomics and Missing Features
The cupholders might seem trivial, but they’re a source of real frustration. Their placement means passengers can’t comfortably rest elbows on the center console, and drivers have to awkwardly reach to grab drinks. Also disappointing is the total absence of a heads-up display—even cheaper rivals like the Camry Hybrid and Mazda 3 have it. Lexus missed an opportunity to blend modern tech seamlessly.
Interiors That Feel Stuck in Time
Step inside and you’ll find quality materials but a design that hasn’t kept pace with competitors. Compared to Audi, BMW, or Mercedes, the IS’s cabin feels dated and less stylish, even if the buttons and controls function well enough. It’s fine, but it lacks the wow factor expected at this price point.
The Engine Choices Could Be Sharper
While there are several engine options, enthusiasts might feel underwhelmed. The IS lacks a V8 or twin-turbocharged powerhouse that rivals offer, and the turbocharged four-cylinder could use more punch. For those craving serious muscle, the missing IS F variant stands out as a lost chance to compete harder.
Connectivity Comes up Short
In an age where Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are almost standard in luxury cars, the Lexus IS falls behind. The sizable infotainment screen looks good and operates smoothly, but the lack of these smartphone integrations feels like a glaring omission that modern buyers won’t overlook.
Despite its drawbacks, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport presents a well-rounded luxury sedan with distinctive character and reliable pedigree. The balance of sporty handling and premium audio make it engaging, but it leaves some tech and design upgrades on the table.
