What engine is in a Lexus IS 350?
The Lexus IS 350 is propelled by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (engine code 2GR-FKS) delivering about 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available.
To understand what powers the IS 350—and how that power is delivered across different model years and trims—this article breaks down the engine’s design, its core specifications, and how it connects to the vehicle’s drivetrain and performance characteristics.
Engine design and specifications
The IS 350 relies on a mid-size V6 designed for smooth, high-revving performance and refined on-road character. The key technical details are summarized below:
- Engine code: 2GR-FKS
- Displacement: 3.5 liters (3456 cc)
- Configuration: Naturally aspirated V6
- Induction and fuel system: Dual VVT-i with direct injection (D-4S)
- Power output: 311 horsepower (232 kW) at around 6,600 rpm
- Torque: 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) at roughly 4,700 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available
In practice, the 2GR-FKS delivers a broad and usable power band, prioritizing smooth acceleration and refined highway cruising. The direct injection helps with efficiency, while the V6’s naturally aspirated design emphasizes linear power delivery and a quiet cabin demeanor.
Drivetrain and performance delivery
Power and engine capability translate through the drivetrain to on-road performance. Here are the main drivetrain configurations and how they affect driving dynamics:
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with manual shift mode and adaptive logic
- Drivetrain options: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) is available on most IS 350 trims
- Performance demeanor: The RWD version tends to feel more engaging and balanced, while AWD provides improved traction in various weather conditions
- Drive modes: Commonly includes Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ (availability may vary by model year and trim)
Across model years, the IS 350’s engine and drivetrain pairing has remained consistent, prioritizing a blend of comfortable daily driving and confident, quiet highway performance. The availability of AWD across trims gives buyers flexibility for regions with adverse weather, while the RWD setup emphasizes a traditional sporty Lexus feel.
Summary
The Lexus IS 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FKS) delivering 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission. It comes with rear-wheel drive as standard and offers all-wheel drive as an option, with a refined, smooth power delivery that suits both daily driving and spirited highway cruising. In markets where IS 350h (hybrid) exists, the IS 350 remains the primary gas-powered variant with the same core engine design across recent generations.
Is Lexus ES basically a Camry?
No, the Lexus ES is not a Camry, but they share the same platform and some mechanical components because Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota. The ES is a more premium version, featuring a more luxurious interior, better materials, a quieter ride, and a more powerful standard engine.
- Platform and powertrain: The ES and Camry have historically shared the same platform, and many modern versions use a similar platform and powertrains. For example, the Lexus ES 350 and many Toyota Camry models use a similar 3.5L V6 engine.
- Luxury and features: The ES is designed to be a luxury sedan, with a more premium and quiet interior, higher-quality materials, and a softer ride compared to the sportier or more mainstream focus of the Camry.
- Positioning: The Camry is a mass-market sedan, while the ES is a luxury vehicle. This means the ES comes standard with more luxury features and has a higher price point to reflect its premium positioning.
Does the Lexus IS 350 have a turbo?
No, the standard Lexus IS350 does not have a turbocharger; it comes with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. The base IS300 model, however, is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
You can watch this video to learn more about the IS350 engine and compare it to other models: 48sDownshiftYouTube · Apr 2, 2021
- IS350: The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 311 horsepower and is naturally aspirated, meaning it does not use a turbo.
- IS300: The base IS300 model uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower.
- Aftermarket modifications: While the factory IS350 does not have a turbo, it is possible to add one through aftermarket kits, as demonstrated by various custom builds.
What are common problems with the IS 350?
Top Lexus IS350 Problems
- The Inside Rear View Mirror May Become Discolored.
- Clicking Type Noise From Rear Suspension.
- Check Engine LIght With Code(s) P0751, P2714, or P0894.
- New Navigation Map Disc May Correct Navigation System Problem.
- New PCM Software Available For Hard Starting Issue.
Which engine does the Lexus IS 350 use?
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 IS has three engine options: a 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the IS300, a 311-hp V-6 in the IS350, and a 472-hp V-8 in the IS500. The IS300 and IS350 can be had with all-wheel drive; the IS500 is rear-drive only.
