What is the horsepower of a Lexus IS 300?
The horsepower of a Lexus IS 300 depends on the model year and market. Historically, the badge has covered different engines, with early models at about 215 horsepower and today’s turbocharged version delivering around 241 horsepower.
Historical and current horsepower by generation
Below is a concise guide to how the IS 300's power output has evolved, including periods when the nameplate wasn’t used in the US lineup and other IS variants filled the gap.
- 2001–2005: Lexus IS 300 (US) powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 producing 215 horsepower and about 218 lb-ft of torque.
- 2006–2013: The US lineup did not use the IS 300 name. Sold variants were IS 250 (204 hp) and IS 350 (306 hp).
- 2015–2016/2017: Introduction of the IS 200t in some markets (and related naming in others) with a 2.0-liter turbo producing roughly 235–238 horsepower depending on location.
- 2017–2020/2021: The IS 300 name reintroduced in many markets with a 2.0-liter turbo engine rated at about 241 horsepower, plus substantial torque (around 258 lb-ft) available in a wide band.
- 2021–present: The current generation IS 300 continues with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, commonly cited at 241 horsepower, with availability for both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
Conclusion: Across generations, the IS 300 horsepower has ranged from the 215 hp of early models to about 241 hp in the modern turbocharged versions. Market-specific naming and engine choices mean some years used different badges or variants in place of IS 300.
Current-generation specifics
The latest IS 300 (2021–present) uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 delivering 241 horsepower and about 258 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and is available in rear-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. Variations can occur by market or model year, but 241 hp is the commonly cited figure for the US-spec current model.
Engine and drivetrain details
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4. Transmission: 8-speed automatic. Drivetrain: rear-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available. The turbo setup prioritizes midrange torque for responsive daily performance and confident acceleration.
Market variations
Some regions have historically listed similar engines with slightly different horsepower ratings (e.g., ranges around 235–238 hp during transition years). Always check your vehicle’s official specification label or the manufacturer’s brochure for the exact figure in your market and model year.
Summary: The Lexus IS 300’s horsepower has evolved with the lineup. Early models delivered 215 hp, while today’s 2.0-liter turbo version produces 241 hp, reflecting a shift toward turbocharged efficiency and stronger low-to-midrange torque. Verify the exact spec for your year and market to be sure.
