How fast is the Lexus IS 350?
The Lexus IS 350 is a midsize luxury sedan built around a 3.5-liter V6 and an 8-speed automatic, offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. This article compiles widely reported acceleration and top-speed figures to give a clear sense of its performance for most buyers.
In typical configurations, the IS 350 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds with rear-wheel drive and roughly 5.7–5.9 seconds with all-wheel drive; electronically limited top speed is around 143 mph (230 km/h).
What determines the IS 350's speed
Several factors combine to shape how fast the IS 350 feels on the road, from official performance figures to real-world driving conditions. The following elements commonly influence acceleration and top speed:
- Engine: A 3.5-liter V6 produces about 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, delivering strong mid-range pull.
- Transmission: An 8-speed automatic with available manual shift mode helps deliver quick, refined shifts.
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is typically quicker in dry conditions than all-wheel drive (AWD) due to lower weight and reduced drivetrain loss; AWD offers better traction in rain or snow but can add weight and slightly slower 0-60 times.
- Tires and grip: Performance tires and road surface quality directly affect launch grip and acceleration, while winter tires or worn rubber can noticeably slow times.
- Weight and aerodynamics: Curb weight varies by year and trim (roughly in the mid-3,600s to upper-3,800s pounds range); aerodynamic factors and ride height in certain packages (like F Sport) can influence top-end speed slightly.
These elements help explain why individual test results can differ by model year, trim level, tires, and road conditions.
Performance by configuration
Typical performance expectations by setup for recent IS 350 models are summarized below. Exact figures can vary by year, market, and testing methodology.
- IS 350 RWD: about 0–60 mph in 5.6 seconds; top speed around 143 mph (230 km/h).
- IS 350 AWD: about 0–60 mph in 5.9 seconds; top speed around 143 mph (230 km/h).
- IS 350 F Sport: horsepower remains roughly 311 hp with sport-tuned suspension and braking; 0–60 times typically in the mid-to-high 5-second range, with a top speed near 143 mph; handling improvements come from the chassis rather than a horsepower bump.
Real-world results depend on launch technique, tire condition, altitude, temperature, and whether Sport or Normal driving modes are engaged.
Model-year notes
Across recent generations, the IS 350 uses the same 3.5-liter V6 architecture with about 311 hp, with minor calibrations for emissions and markets. All IS 350 variants use the 8-speed automatic and do not offer a manual transmission. The F Sport package adds chassis and brake upgrades that enhance handling and braking feel but does not substantially increase horsepower.
Summary
In short, the Lexus IS 350 typically reaches 0–60 mph in roughly 5.6 seconds with RWD and about 5.7–5.9 seconds with AWD, while top speed is electronically limited to around 143 mph (230 km/h) across most trims. Real-world times vary with drivetrain, tires, weather, and driving mode, but the IS 350 remains a strong sporty choice within its luxury-sedan class. The F Sport variant emphasizes handling and braking dynamics more than raw speed, offering a different driving character without a major horsepower increase.
How fast does the Lexus 350 go?
131 mph
Features: Lexus ES 350
| 2021 Lexus ES 350 Engine Specs | ||
|---|---|---|
| F Sport | 3.5L V6 | 131 mph (estimated) |
| Ultra Luxury | 3.5L V6 | 131 mph (estimated) |
| Luxury | 3.5L V6 | 131 mph (estimated) |
| Base Model | 3.5L V6 | 131 mph (estimated) |
What is the 0-60 time for a 2006 Lexus IS 350?
The 2006 Lexus IS 350 has a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.6 seconds, according to Kelley Blue Book and MotorTrend. Other sources report slightly different times, ranging from 5.0 to 5.5 seconds, depending on conditions and specific testing methods.
You can watch this video to see a 2006 Lexus IS 350 review, including acceleration times: 1mKelley Blue BookYouTube · Dec 26, 2008
- Official and industry-tested times: Multiple sources cite a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds.
- Reported variations: Some sources have reported figures as low as 5.0 seconds or as high as 5.5 seconds.
- Factors influencing time: Performance can be affected by driver skill, road conditions, and other variables.
IS350 and ES 350 which is faster?
The ES 350 achieves 302 horsepower with its base engine, while the IS 350 produces 311 horsepower. The difference is slight, but the IS 350's greater horsepower creates a quicker acceleration from zero to 60 MPH: Lexus ES 350: 6.6 seconds. Lexus IS 350: 5.6 seconds.
Is the Lexus IS 350 fast?
Yes, the Lexus IS 350 is fast, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.6 seconds for the rear-wheel-drive model and 5.7 seconds for the all-wheel-drive model, and an electronically limited top speed of 143 mph. Its 3.5L V6 engine produces 311 horsepower, providing strong and linear acceleration that makes it feel quick enough for spirited driving.
You can watch this video to see a review of the 2025 Lexus IS 350 F Sport's performance: 1mRaiti's RidesYouTube · Sep 15, 2025
Acceleration
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.6 seconds for rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 5.7 seconds for all-wheel drive (AWD).
- Engine: A 3.5L V6 engine produces 311 horsepower.
Top speed
- The top speed is electronically limited to 143 mph.
Performance feel
- The acceleration is described as strong and linear, with instant throttle response up to the redline.
- While it's fast enough for the street, some may not consider it a high-level track car compared to some competitors.
