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Is the Lexus IS 300 turbo?

The current Lexus IS 300 is powered by a turbocharged engine, specifically a 2.0-liter inline-four that delivers turbocharged performance with everyday usability. This places the IS 300 in the turbocharged entry-luxury segment, alongside its naturally aspirated and high-performance siblings in the IS lineup.

Powertrain and performance

Key powertrain specs for the IS 300, including the turbo setup, output, and drivetrain options.

Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine (2.0L turbo, 8AR-FTS family)

Approximate output: around 240–250 horsepower and about 258 lb-ft of torque, with exact numbers varying by model year and market

Transmission: 8-speed automatic with available manual shift mode

Drivetrain options: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) available on most years

Performance: 0-60 mph typically in the mid-to-high 6-second range for RWD, with AWD slightly slower depending on configuration

Fuel economy: generally in the low- to mid-20s mpg combined, varying by drivetrain and year

In summary, the IS 300’s turbocharged powertrain is designed to balance brisk acceleration with everyday efficiency, offering a more spirited drive than some non-turbo rivals while remaining practical for daily use.

Market variations and trims

Understanding how the IS 300 is offered across regions and trims helps clarify what customers actually get behind the wheel.

United States: The IS 300 is the turbocharged entry in the lineup, typically available with RWD or AWD, and often offered in F Sport trim for enhanced handling and styling

Global markets: Many regions use the same 2.0-liter turbo engine, though power output and emission- or efficiency-related tuning can differ slightly by country

Related models: The IS 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6, while the high-performance IS 500 (introduced in several markets) uses a 5.0-liter V8; these variants provide alternative power and cost profiles within the same generation

Taken together, the IS 300 remains the turbocharged option in the IS family, with regional variations in standard equipment, trims, and drivetrain availability shaping the ownership experience.

How the IS 300 compares to other IS models

The IS lineup includes a V6-powered IS 350 and a high-performance IS 500 with a larger V8. While the IS 300 focuses on a turbocharged four-cylinder balance of efficiency and sportiness, the IS 350 emphasizes smoother power delivery from a larger engine, and the IS 500 targets peak performance with its V8 and sport-focused tuning.

What to expect in everyday driving

What customers typically notice when driving an IS 300 with the turbo engine: immediate torque from lower revs, responsive turbo lag characteristics, and confident everyday usability in both RWD and AWD configurations. The 8-speed automatic is tuned for smooth shifts, with a sport mode that sharpens throttle response and transmission mappings for more engaging driving dynamics.

Summary

In the current generation, the Lexus IS 300 is indeed turbocharged, powered by a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four that delivers a blend of punchy acceleration and practical efficiency. It sits between the higher-powered IS 350 and the performance-focused IS 500 in Lexus’ IS lineup, offering a compelling option for buyers who want turbocharged performance without stepping up to a V6 or V8. Always verify the exact specs for your region and model year, as outputs and available drivetrains can vary.

What engine does the Lexus IS 300 use?

The Lexus IS 300 has two engine options, depending on the model and drivetrain: a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or an available 3.5-liter V6 for all-wheel drive models. Older models, like the first-generation IS 300 (1999-2005), came with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine.

Modern IS 300

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4: This is the standard engine for the rear-wheel-drive model, producing around 241 horsepower.
3.5-liter V6: This engine is an option for the all-wheel-drive IS 300 and is also standard on the IS 350 models, providing higher horsepower.

First-generation IS 300

3.0-liter 2JZ-GE inline-six: This was the engine used in the first-generation IS 300 from 1999 to 2005.

Is the Lexus IS 300 turbocharged?

Discover pure exhilaration in three striking forms: the 241-horsepower,* 2.0-liter turbocharged engine of the nimble IS 300.

IS 300 vs 350 a difference?

The main difference between a 300 and a 350 is the engine and performance; the 350 has a more powerful V6 engine, while the 300 has either a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (RWD) or a less powerful 3.5-liter V6 (AWD). The 350 is also typically more expensive and has slightly higher resale value. Other differences can include the F Sport package being standard on the 350, which adds features like a sport-tuned suspension.

You can watch this video to see the exterior differences between the IS 300 and IS 350 F-Sport: 1mIBKadeYouTube · Feb 28, 2021
Engine and performance

IS 300:
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD): 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 241 horsepower.
- All-wheel drive (AWD): A less powerful version of the 3.5-liter V6 with 260 horsepower.
IS 350:
- Standard 3.5-liter V6 engine with 311 horsepower, available in both RWD and AWD configurations.
- The 350 offers more acceleration and a more spirited driving experience.

Other differences

Price: The IS 350 is more expensive than the IS 300.
Resale value: The IS 350 tends to have a higher resale value.
F Sport features: The F Sport package, which includes a sport-tuned suspension and other performance-enhancing features, often comes standard with the IS 350, while it is an option on the IS 300.

Which one is right for you?

Choose the IS 300 if your budget is tighter and you primarily need a comfortable car for commuting, as it offers better fuel economy and is more budget-friendly.
Choose the IS 350 if you prioritize performance and a more engaging driving experience, as the V6 engine provides significantly more power.

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Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.