What are the specs of the Lexus is3000?
The model name “Lexus IS3000” does not exist in Lexus’s current or historical lineup. The closest and real options are the IS 300, IS 350, and, in some markets, the IS 500. Here’s what those actual models offer, so you can navigate the specs you may be after.
Is there a Lexus IS3000?
No. Lexus has never produced an IS model with the number 3000 in its badge. The numeric suffixes used in the IS line have been IS 200/IS 250, IS 300 (in some generations and markets), IS 350, and IS 500. If you’ve seen “IS3000” referenced, it’s likely a misunderstanding or a misprint related to one of the real IS variants or a regional badge. The rest of this guide focuses on the actual current IS options and their specifications.
Current Lexus IS lineup: quick snapshot
IS 300 (current generation)
Below is a concise specs snapshot for the IS 300 as sold in recent U.S. markets. The model uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, with outputs around 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available. Performance and efficiency vary by drivetrain and model year.
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 241 hp
- Torque: 258 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD standard; AWD available
- 0-60 mph: roughly 6.0–7.0 seconds (drivetrain/tires dependent)
- Top speed: electronically limited, generally around 140–143 mph depending on year
- Fuel economy (EPA estimates): typically in the mid-20s mpg combined, with variations by drivetrain and year
In short, the IS 300 is the turbocharged four-cylinders’ entry in the IS lineup, balancing performance with efficiency and offering AWD as an option for traction.
IS 350 (current generation)
The IS 350 sits above the IS 300 in the lineup, using a naturally aspirated V6 with more straightforward, muscular performance. It’s widely available with rear- or all-wheel drive and comes with a broader power and torque curve, along with the same 8-speed automatic transmission framework.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6
- Horsepower: about 311 hp
- Torque: about 280 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD standard; AWD available
- 0-60 mph: approximately 5.6 seconds (varies by configuration)
- Top speed: electronically limited, typically around 143 mph
- Fuel economy (EPA estimates): commonly around 20–22 mpg city / 28–32 mpg highway, depending on year and drivetrain
The IS 350 emphasizes stronger straight-line performance and a more traditional V6 character, while still offering the refined interior and ride Lexus buyers expect.
IS 500 (for reference and context)
For context, the high-performance IS variant in some markets is the IS 500, which uses a 5.0-liter V8 and delivers significantly more horsepower and a sharper throttle response. It’s not a model badge that would be confused with “IS3000,” but it’s part of the IS family’s performance spectrum.
- Engine: 5.0-liter V8
- Horsepower: roughly 472 hp
- Torque: around 395 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD standard; AWD variants
- 0-60 mph: around 4.3 seconds
- Top speed: electronically limited around 168 mph
- Fuel economy (EPA estimates): typically lower than the IS 300/350 due to the V8
IS 500 represents the performance apex of the current IS family, offering a high-revving V8 experience within the same sedan platform.
Why the naming confusion persists
Automotive naming can be confusing across generations and markets. Lexus has used different suffixes (250, 300, 350, F Sport, etc.) to denote engine and trim differences. If you’re shopping or researching, verify the model year and market (U.S., Europe, Asia, etc.) to ensure you’re looking at the right specs for IS 300, IS 350, or IS 500.
Summary
There is no Lexus IS3000 model. The current and historical IS lineup centers on IS 300, IS 350, and IS 500, with varying engines and drivetrains. The IS 300 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (about 241 hp), the IS 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 (about 311 hp), and the IS 500 features a 5.0-liter V8 (about 472 hp). If you meant to ask about a different model or a specific market’s variant, share the year and region and I’ll provide the precise, up-to-date specifications.
What is the difference between Lexus IS 300 and 350?
The main differences between the Lexus IS 300 and IS 350 are engine power and performance. The IS 350 has a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine with 311 horsepower, while the IS 300 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (241 hp) for rear-wheel drive or a 3.5-liter V6 (260 hp) for all-wheel drive. The IS 350 generally offers sharper handling and more power for highway driving, whereas the IS 300 has slightly better fuel economy in its base configuration.
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the exterior differences between the IS 300 and IS 350 F-Sport: 1mIBKadeYouTube · Feb 28, 2021
Performance and engine
- IS 350: Features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower.
- IS 300: Has two engine options depending on drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): A 3.5-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower.
- Handling: The IS 350 has more torque and can accelerate more confidently without downshifting, and its steering can feel sharper, especially in F Sport trims.
This video compares the performance of the IS 300 and IS 350, including acceleration: 50sShifting LanesYouTube · Oct 31, 2021
Fuel economy
- IS 300: Offers slightly better fuel economy, with an estimated rating of 21 city/31 highway MPG for the RWD model.
- IS 350: Has slightly lower fuel economy due to its more powerful engine, with an estimated rating of 20 city/28 highway MPG for the RWD model.
Features and options
- Exterior: F Sport models of both trims have similar interior features. Some exterior differences can be found, such as a sportier-looking rear bumper and specific wheels on the IS 350 F Sport.
- Interior: The interior is largely identical across both models, with the exception of some optional features or trim-specific elements like the gauge cluster and available trim colors.
- Trunk: Both models have the same trunk size.
You can watch this video for an overview of the interior and exterior features of the IS 300 and IS 350: 58sJorge AlvarezYouTube · Apr 29, 2022
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the IS 350 if you prioritize performance and a sportier driving experience.
- Choose the IS 300 if your budget is a primary concern and you want a balance of efficiency and performance, especially if you don't need the extra power.
How much horsepower does the Lexus IS 300 have?
The Lexus IS 300 has two horsepower options depending on the drivetrain: a rear-wheel drive (RWD) model with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower, and an all-wheel drive (AWD) model with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): 241 horsepower from a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): 260 horsepower from a 3.5L V6 engine.
Which Lexus IS 300 has a 2JZ?
All factory-built Lexus IS300 models from 2001 to 2005 came standard with the 2JZ-GE engine. This was the naturally aspirated, 3.0-liter inline-six engine, which was a variant of the famous engine also found in the Toyota Supra, though without the turbocharger.
- Engine: The engine was a 2JZ-GE, which is a 3.0-liter, naturally aspirated (non-turbo) inline-six.
- Years: The 2JZ-GE was the engine for all Lexus IS300 models produced from 2001 to 2005.
- Power: The engine produced around 215-227 horsepower, depending on the specific model year.
- Performance: While this engine was known for its durability, it was the non-turbo version. Enthusiasts often modified it to add a turbocharger to significantly increase its horsepower.
What are common Lexus IS 300 problems?
Lexus IS300 Problems
- Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System Failure.
- Check Engine Light and Lack of Power Due to Failed Mass Air Flow Sensor.
- Lexus IS300 won't start despite strong battery current, seeking diagnostic suggestions.
- Lexus IS300 bald front tires and worn front brake pads issue.
