Lexus IS350 Sport Luxury 2017 review | road test
- Price From $84,160
- ANCAP
- Seats5
- Fuel cons.9.7L/100km (combined)
What we like
- Smooth powertrain
- Bulletproof quality
- Individual looks
What we don't
- Feels heavy
- Odd-bod interior
- Some ergonomic failures
Key features
- 5 Star Safety
Peter Anderson road tests and reviews the Lexus IS350 Sport Luxury with specs, fuel consumption and verdict.
The Lexus IS has carved out a niche in the executive sedan market - some owners would require dynamite to shift them to another brand. With an unparalleled commitment to post-sales service and a reputation for absolutely bulletproof reliability, Lexus hasn't exactly beaten the Germans into submission here in Australia, but it has given them a good fright. If you want to take on Audi, BMW and Mercedes, you've got to bring what Americans call 'your A-game.'
The IS350 is a niche within a niche, though. At this level, the Germans have convinced their customers that forced induction fours or sixes are the go, while Lexus soldiers on with a naturally aspirated V6 and a specification list as long as your arm.
Verdict
The IS350 is a fine car and is edging ever closer to the truly European feel the marque seems to crave. It's also different enough for those who don't want to be a part of the German triad and want to do something different while getting an after-sales experience that's hard to beat.
The thing about the IS is that it feels a little old - the interior tech and naturally-aspirated V6 are a bit 2009. That's not to criticise the car itself because it's beautifully made and if past IS generations are anything to go by, will outlast humanity. The 350 feels, and is heavy. It's a bit thirsty and doesn't quite tick all the boxes many in the sector are looking for. But wow, is it getting closer.
Click here for more 2017 Lexus IS350 pricing and spec info.
Is the Lexus IS in the running for you? Or does your wallet only speak German?
Specifications
- PriceFrom $84,160
- Fuel consumption9.7L/100km (combined), 225g/km CO2 Tank 66L
- Safety5-star ANCAP
- Seats5
- Warranty4 years/100,000km
- Service Interval12 months/15,000km
- Engine3.456L 6-cyl premium unleaded, 233kW/378Nm
- TransmissionAutomatic, RWD
- Turning circle10.4m diameter
- Dimensions4665mm (L), 1810mm (W), 1430mm (H)
Lexus IS350 Sport Luxury 2017 review | road test
What we like
- Smooth powertrain
- Bulletproof quality
- Individual looks
What we don't
- Feels heavy
- Odd-bod interior
- Some ergonomic failures
Key Features
- 5 Star Safety
Related cars for sale
Sponsored
Comments