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What does the Lexus IS350 compete with?

The Lexus IS350 is a luxury sedan that competes with other premium midsize cars like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Audi A4. As part of Lexus' entry-level lineup, the IS350 offers a blend of performance, luxury, and technology to appeal to discerning buyers in the highly competitive luxury sedan market.

Key Competitors of the Lexus IS350

The Lexus IS350 goes head-to-head with several other well-established luxury sedans in the midsize segment:

BMW 3 Series - The benchmark for sporty, driver-focused luxury sedans. The 3 Series offers a range of powerful engine options and engaging handling.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class - A refined and sophisticated luxury sedan with a focus on comfort, technology, and premium interior materials.

Audi A4 - Known for its quattro all-wheel-drive system, the A4 blends performance, luxury, and advanced safety features.

Acura TLX - A more affordable luxury option that provides a balance of comfort, technology, and value.

Genesis G70 - A relative newcomer that offers an engaging driving experience and a long list of standard features.

These competitors all offer a similar mix of performance, luxury, and technology, making the midsize luxury sedan segment a highly competitive space for automakers to differentiate their offerings.

How the Lexus IS350 Stands Out

The Lexus IS350 distinguishes itself from the competition in several key areas:

Powertrain - The IS350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 311 horsepower, providing a compelling blend of power and efficiency.

Handling - The IS350 offers a more balanced and composed driving experience compared to some of its sportier rivals, appealing to buyers who value a comfortable yet engaging ride.

Reliability - As a Lexus model, the IS350 is known for its exceptional build quality and reliability, which are important considerations for luxury car buyers.

Luxury Features - The IS350 comes standard with a host of premium features, including a high-quality interior, advanced infotainment system, and a suite of safety technologies.

While the Lexus IS350 may not be the most overtly sporty or the most luxurious option in the segment, it strikes a compelling balance that appeals to a wide range of luxury sedan buyers.

Is the IS 350 the same size as a Camry?

This contrasts with the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD, which is shorter at 183.7 inches and has a wheelbase of 110.2 inches. Width-wise, the Camry TRD FWD is 73.1 inches, while the IS 350 F Sport AWD is narrower at 71.3 inches.

What is the Toyota equivalent to the Lexus IS 350?

And the 2025 Toyota Camry XSE. Now the better comparison would be the Toyota Camry TRD which is has been discontinued for the 25-year.

What does the Lexus IS compete with?

The main competitors to the Lexus IS include the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Genesis G70. Other competitors in the luxury compact/mid-size sedan segment are the Cadillac CT4 and Acura TLX, along with models from Audi (such as the A5 or S4) and Volvo (such as the S60).
This video discusses the Lexus IS and its competitors, including the Acura TLX, Infiniti Q50, and Genesis G70: 58sKirk KreifelsYouTube · Oct 1, 2020
This video compares the Lexus IS to the BMW 3-Series: 47sDownshiftYouTube · Apr 3, 2021
This video compares the Lexus IS 500 to the BMW M340i: 56sSleepy GarageYouTube · Jun 24, 2024
This video discusses the performance differences between the Lexus IS 500 and BMW M340i: 59sDownshiftYouTube · Apr 23, 2024
This video compares the Lexus IS to the BMW 3-Series and discusses performance and technology: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Mar 10, 2021
European competitors

BMW 3-Series: Often considered the benchmark for performance and driving dynamics in the segment.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class: A strong competitor with a focus on luxury and a comfortable ride.
Audi A5/S4: Offers a balance of luxury, performance, and technology.
Volvo S60: Competes with a focus on safety and sophisticated design.

Asian competitors

Genesis G70: A direct rival with a strong emphasis on power and rear-wheel-drive dynamics, comparable to German rivals.
Acura TLX: Provides a sportier alternative, though it may not match the IS in terms of interior refinement.
Infiniti Q50: Offers strong performance, especially in higher trims, but may lack the same level of refinement as the IS.

American competitors

Cadillac CT4: Another competitor that focuses on a sporty driving experience.
Cadillac CT5: A more upscale option that aims for a sportier character, though its interior has received some criticism compared to competitors.

Which is better, Acura TLX or Lexus IS 350?

The main differences are that the Acura TLX is a more spacious, modern, and performance-oriented sedan, especially in the Type S trim, while the Lexus IS 350 is smaller but favored by some for its refined interior and reputation for reliability. Choosing depends on priorities: prioritize modern tech, space, and a powerful engine with the TLX, or choose the IS 350 for a more classic sports sedan feel and long-term reliability.

This video compares the features and performance of the TLX Type S and the IS 350 F Sport: 58sCarGurusYouTube · Oct 15, 2021
Acura TLX

Performance: Generally seen as the sportier option, especially in the Type S trim, which features a turbocharged V6 engine. The base model is a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder.
Technology: Features a more modern infotainment system with a larger standard screen (12.3 inches) and wireless Apple CarPlay on higher trims. The TLX uses a trackpad for infotainment control, which some users find clunky.
Space: Offers more interior space, particularly for rear passengers, and a larger trunk.
Interior: Modern design, with features like ambient lighting, a digital gauge cluster, and an available head-up display.
Drivetrain: The TLX is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with the Type S exclusively being AWD.

Lexus IS 350

Performance: Comes with a powerful 3.5L V6 engine in the IS 350 trim, which is comparable to or more powerful than the TLX's base engine.
Technology: Has a less modern infotainment system and the IS 350 lacks features like wireless charging, which are available on the TLX. The infotainment system, while less advanced, is considered more intuitive by some users.
Space: Has a smaller cabin and a smaller trunk compared to the TLX.
Interior: Considered more refined by some, though dated in some aspects. Features include standard dual-zone climate control, push-button start, and heated/ventilated leather seats.
Drivetrain: Available in both RWD and AWD.

This video reviews the 2021 Acura TLX and compares it to the Lexus IS: 53sAutotraderYouTube · Dec 15, 2020
Which to choose?

Choose the TLX if: You want the latest tech, a more modern and spacious interior, and strong performance, especially if considering the Type S trim.
Choose the IS 350 if: You prioritize long-term reliability, a more engaging and smaller driving experience, or a slightly more refined interior (at the cost of modern tech).

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.