Is The Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD A Good Choice?

Nov 17, 2025 by Alex Braham 47 views

Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD: Is It the Right Choice for You?

Hey there, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD. If you're eyeing this beauty, you're probably wondering if it's really worth the hype. Well, buckle up because we're about to explore everything this car has to offer, from its performance and design to its comfort and overall value. Whether you're a seasoned driver or just looking for a stylish and reliable ride, this review will help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD doesn't disappoint. The 3.5-liter V6 engine churns out a respectable 311 horsepower, providing ample power for both city cruising and highway sprints. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. You'll feel confident and in control, whether you're navigating slick city streets or tackling winding country roads. The F Sport package adds a sport-tuned suspension, enhancing the car's handling capabilities and making it more responsive to driver inputs. This means sharper cornering, reduced body roll, and an overall more engaging driving experience. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the car's overall refinement. However, some drivers may find the transmission a bit slow to respond in certain situations, particularly when trying to execute quick overtakes. Despite this minor drawback, the IS 350 F Sport AWD offers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience that should appeal to a wide range of drivers. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. This allows you to confidently place the car exactly where you want it, enhancing the sense of connection between driver and machine. Overall, the performance and handling of the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD are among its strongest attributes, making it a compelling choice for those who value a dynamic and engaging driving experience.

Design and Styling

The Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD is a real head-turner, no doubt about it. The exterior design is sleek and aggressive, with sharp lines and a bold front grille that commands attention. The F Sport package adds unique touches like a rear spoiler, special badging, and distinctive alloy wheels, enhancing the car's sporty appearance. The LED headlights and taillights not only look great but also provide excellent visibility, improving safety during nighttime driving. Inside, the cabin is equally impressive, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample bolstering to keep you in place during spirited driving. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. However, some may find the infotainment system's touchpad interface a bit cumbersome to use at first. The cabin is also relatively spacious for a compact sedan, offering decent legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The overall design and styling of the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD exude a sense of luxury and sophistication, making it a car that you'll be proud to own and drive. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the car's design, from the meticulously stitched leather seats to the perfectly aligned trim pieces. Whether you're cruising down the street or parked at a fancy restaurant, the IS 350 F Sport AWD is sure to make a statement.

Comfort and Technology

Let's talk comfort and tech in the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD. This car is designed to make your ride smooth and enjoyable. The seats are super comfy, especially on long drives, and the cabin is quiet, thanks to good sound insulation. You won't hear much road or wind noise, which is a big plus. Now, onto the tech – the infotainment system has a crisp display, but some folks find the touchpad a bit tricky to use. It takes some getting used to, but once you master it, it's pretty functional. You get all the standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so connecting your phone is a breeze. The sound system is impressive too, delivering clear and rich audio. Safety-wise, the IS 350 F Sport AWD comes loaded with features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems help keep you safe on the road, which is always a good thing. Overall, the comfort and tech in this car are top-notch, making it a great choice if you value a smooth and safe driving experience. The climate control system works efficiently, keeping the cabin at your desired temperature, and the available sunroof adds an extra touch of luxury. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD will keep you comfortable and connected.

Reliability and Ownership

One of the biggest draws of the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD is its reputation for reliability. Lexus consistently ranks high in reliability surveys, and the IS 350 is no exception. You can expect this car to last for many years with proper maintenance. Speaking of maintenance, Lexus offers a comprehensive warranty and service program, which can give you peace of mind. The cost of ownership is also reasonable, with good fuel economy for a car in its class and predictable maintenance costs. Of course, luxury car parts can be expensive, but the IS 350 is generally less prone to major issues than some of its competitors. Resale value is another strong point – Lexus vehicles tend to hold their value well, so you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade it in. Overall, the reliability and ownership experience of the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD are excellent, making it a smart choice for those who want a dependable and hassle-free luxury car. The peace of mind that comes with owning a Lexus is hard to put a price on, and the IS 350 delivers on that promise.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD with a quick list of pros and cons:

Pros:

Performance: The 3.5L V6 engine delivers plenty of power, making it fun to drive.
All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction and stability, especially in bad weather.
Sporty Handling: The F Sport package enhances the car's handling capabilities.
Stylish Design: The exterior and interior are both eye-catching and well-crafted.
Reliability: Lexus is known for its reliability, so you can expect this car to last.
Comfort: The seats are comfortable, and the cabin is quiet.

Cons:

Infotainment System: The touchpad interface can be a bit frustrating to use.
Fuel Economy: While decent, it's not the best in its class.
Rear Seat Space: It can be a bit tight for taller passengers.
Price: It's a bit more expensive than some of its competitors.

Final Verdict

So, is the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD a good choice? Absolutely! It's a stylish, reliable, and fun-to-drive luxury sedan that offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and technology. While it's not perfect, its strengths definitely outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a car that will make you smile every time you get behind the wheel, the IS 350 F Sport AWD is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to take it for a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. Happy driving, folks!