Does the Lexus IS 350 have a turbo?
The IS 350 does not use a turbocharger. It relies on a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 for its power. If you’re seeking turbocharged performance within the IS lineup, you’ll find that option in other trims or markets, while the IS 500 sits above with a V8 and No turbo in its root design.
To understand the question in context, it helps to map out how Lexus has varied the IS lineup over generations. The IS family has included turbocharged four-cylinder options in some markets and model years, as well as high-performance non-turbo configurations. The IS 350, as sold today in many regions, continues with a naturally aspirated V6, even as other variants offer forced induction or different powertrains.
Engine lineup and turbo status
Here is a quick guide to which IS models use turbocharged power and what engines they rely on.
- IS 350: 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6
- IS 300 (in some markets and model years): turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four
- IS 500: 5.0-liter V8 (high performance; not turbocharged)
- Hybrid variants (where offered in some markets, e.g., IS 300h): hybrid powertrains rather than turbocharged engines
In summary, the current IS 350 itself is not turbocharged, while other trims and regional offerings provide turbocharged options in certain markets and generations.
Market variations and model years
The IS lineup has seen regional differences and shifts over time. In some regions, Lexus offered turbocharged four-cylinder variants such as the IS 300 or IS 200t in earlier generations, while the US market has primarily paired the IS 350 with the NA V6 and reserved turbocharged four-cylinder options for other trims in specific years. The most recent generation continues to position the IS 350 as the naturally aspirated V6 option, with the IS 500 remaining a non-turbo V8 variant and the turbocharged IS 300 appearing in markets where it was offered.
What to consider if you’re shopping
If turbocharged performance is a priority, here’s how to approach the decision:
- Confirm the exact engine for the model year and market you’re considering, since turbo options have varied by region.
- Recognize that the IS 350 itself is not turbocharged and focuses on a smooth, naturally aspirated V6 experience.
- Explore turbocharged IS 300 variants (where offered) for a different powertrain experience, or consider the IS 500 for high performance with a V8.
- Review warranty and maintenance implications when comparing turbocharged versus naturally aspirated engines.
Bottom line: If your goal is turbocharged power within the IS lineup, you’ll be looking at other trims and/or regional offerings rather than the IS 350 in its current form.
Summary
The Lexus IS 350 does not come with a turbocharger; it uses a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. Turbocharged options exist outside the IS 350 in other trims (notably the turbocharged IS 300 in some markets) and there is also the IS 500 with a V8. Buyers should verify the exact engine for their market and model year, as the availability of turbocharged power has varied over time.
Is the Lexus 350 turbocharged?
The 2025 Lexus RX 350 is a comfortable, confident cruiser. It's quiet until the turbocharged four-cylinder engine is really pushed, and the brakes are responsive, if not finely tuned. Generally, the RX 350 is pleasant to drive and ride in.
What engine does a Lexus IS 350 have?
The Lexus IS 350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 311 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It features a naturally aspirated, DOHC (dual overhead cam) engine with dual VVT-iW (variable valve timing) on the intake and VVT-i on the exhaust.
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 311 hp @ 6,600 rpm
- Torque: 280 lb-ft
- Valvetrain: 24-valve DOHC with Variable Valve Timing
- Fueling: Dual VVT-iW intake and VVT-i exhaust
Is the Lexus is turbo?
OVERVIEW. The IS 300 is powered by an ultra-smooth 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 241 horsepower and control without compromise.
Does the Lexus IS 350 have turbo?
No, the standard Lexus IS350 does not have a turbocharger; it comes with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. The base IS300 model, however, is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
You can watch this video to learn more about the IS350 engine and compare it to other models: 48sDownshiftYouTube · Apr 2, 2021
- IS350: The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 311 horsepower and is naturally aspirated, meaning it does not use a turbo.
- IS300: The base IS300 model uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower.
- Aftermarket modifications: While the factory IS350 does not have a turbo, it is possible to add one through aftermarket kits, as demonstrated by various custom builds.
