IS the 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport fast?
The 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is quick for a luxury sedan, delivering about 311 horsepower with a 0-60 mph time around 5.6 seconds in rear-wheel-drive form. It offers strong township for daily driving and confident handling without being a dedicated performance car.
Powertrain and chassis
The IS 350 F Sport relies on a naturally aspirated V6 paired with Lexus’ 8-speed automatic transmission and a sport-tuned chassis. The engine produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, enabling brisk acceleration without turbo lag. The standard setup is rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The F Sport trim adds a firmer suspension, revised dampers, larger brakes, and sportier styling to sharpen handling and reduce body roll.
Engine and drivetrain
3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FSE) delivering 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. RWD is standard, with AWD available for those who want extra grip in poor conditions. The F Sport tuning focuses on a more engaging driving experience through suspension and brake upgrades.
F Sport enhancements
F Sport models feature stiffer springs, tuned dampers, and larger brakes, along with distinctive exterior and interior details such as sport seats and special trim. The result is more composure in corners and improved overall feedback compared with non-F Sport IS models.
Performance numbers
Here are the core numbers that influence speed and acceleration. Note that numbers can vary slightly by drivetrain (RWD vs. AWD) and year-specific calibrations.
Key performance specifications
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (311 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available
- 0–60 mph: approximately 5.6 seconds (RWD); about 5.8–5.9 seconds (AWD)
- Top speed: electronically limited to around 143 mph
These figures illustrate why the IS 350 F Sport feels eager in everyday driving and keeps pace with mid-range luxury sport sedans, though it isn’t a purpose-built race car.
Efficiency and daily usability
For a performance-oriented luxury sedan, the IS 350 F Sport offers reasonable fuel economy and practical usability. EPA estimates typically show modest penalties for the sport-focused setup, especially with AWD.
Fuel economy and daily practicality
- EPA fuel economy (RWD): roughly 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- EPA fuel economy (AWD): roughly 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
- Trunk space: about 10.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity
- Ride quality: chassis and suspension tune balance sportiness with everyday comfort, though the F Sport ride can feel firmer on rough pavement
These attributes mean the IS 350 F Sport is capable for daily driving and longer trips, while still offering a sportier personality than some rivals.
How it stacks up against rivals
In its class, the IS 350 F Sport aims to blend luxury, comfort, and performance. Here’s how it generally compares to popular peers in the segment.
- BMW 330i (2.0L turbo): Similar mid-5-second 0–60 performance in many trims, with a reputation for precise steering and balanced handling. Often praised for interior refinement and tech features.
- Audi A4 45 TFSI: Competitive acceleration, well-rounded chassis, and high-quality interior, with a different feel to the steering and ride than Lexus.
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C300): Smooth, refined ride with a focus on luxury and quietness; performance is solid but can be less aggressive in standard setups.
Overall, the IS 350 F Sport sits among capable rivals with a sportier character than some luxury sedans, though it may not outpace the most aggressive sport-oriented models in the segment.
Bottom line
Yes, the 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is fast for its class, offering strong horsepower, ready acceleration, and competent handling. It excels in delivering a balanced blend of daily usability and sporty character, but if your priority is absolute track-ready speed, you might prefer more extreme sport variants or dedicated performance cars.
Summary
The 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport provides a compelling mix of performance and refinement in the compact luxury sedan space. With a 311-hp V6, an 8-speed automatic, and a sport-tuned chassis, it accelerates briskly and handles with confidence, while remaining practical for daily driving. It competes well with rivals like the BMW 330i and Audi A4, though it does not aim to be the outright fastest in its class. For buyers seeking a enjoyable blend of speed, comfort, and premium features, the IS 350 F Sport remains a strong option.
