What transmission is the Lexus IS350?
The IS350 uses an automatic transmission. In the current generation, it pairs a smooth 8-speed automatic with the 3.5-liter V6; earlier IS350 models used a 6-speed automatic.
This article examines how the IS350’s transmission has evolved across generations, what each model year offered, and how that affects performance and driving experience.
Transmission overview by generation
Below is a generation-by-generation snapshot of the transmission setups used in the Lexus IS350.
- 2006–2013: 6-speed automatic transmission. Lexus did not offer a manual transmission on the IS350 during this period; rear-wheel drive was common, with some trims offering all-wheel drive.
- 2014–2020: 8-speed automatic transmission. The IS350 moved to a newer 8‑speed unit across the lineup, delivering smoother shifts and improved efficiency; no manual option remained.
- 2021–present: 8-speed automatic transmission. In the current generation, the IS350 continues with an 8‑speed automatic, with rear- or all-wheel-drive configurations and continued paddle-shift sport mode.
The key takeaway is that the IS350 has always used an automatic transmission, transitioning from a 6-speed to an 8-speed in the modern era to enhance refinement and performance.
How the transmission affects driving and feel
The 8-speed automatic in today’s IS350 supports quick, seamless shifts and improved fuel economy, especially in city driving and highway cruising. Paddle shifters and sport modes offer a more engaged driving experience, while the absence of a manual option remains a defining trait of the IS350 lineage.
Summary
What are the common problems with the IS 350?
Common problems with the Lexus IS350 include fuel pump failures, steering system issues, and problems with emissions control systems. Other issues can include dashboard melting, discolored interior rearview mirrors, check engine lights, and potential problems with hard starting or the navigation system.
Recalls and major issues
- Fuel pump failures: A specific recall addressed a failure in the low-pressure fuel pump that could cause the engine to stall while driving.
- Steering failures: Some models have experienced power steering failure.
- Takata airbag recalls: Like many other vehicles, some IS350s were subject to recalls for faulty Takata airbags.
Common complaints and minor issues
- Dashboard melting: Some owners report that the dashboard surface can become discolored or "melt".
- Discolored rearview mirror: The inside rearview mirror may develop discoloration.
- Check engine light: Various issues, such as problems with the emissions control system or catalytic converter, can trigger the check engine light.
- Hard starting: Some models may experience hard starting issues that can sometimes be corrected with updated PCM software.
- Fuel economy: Some owners find the fuel economy to be lower than expected.
- Road noise: Certain model years have been noted for having excessive road noise.
Other potential problems
- Brake dust: The brakes can produce a significant amount of dust.
- Navigation system: Some problems with the navigation system can be resolved with a new map disc.
What kind of transmission does a Lexus have?
Lexus uses several types of transmissions depending on the model, including traditional automatic transmissions with multiple gears (e.g., 8-speed) and different kinds of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). For hybrid models, they use an electronically controlled CVT (eCVT) which is a different system that uses a power split device instead of a belt. Some non-hybrid models also feature a unique Direct Shift-CVT (DCVT) which combines elements of traditional CVTs with a physical first gear for improved durability.
Types of transmissions Lexus uses
- Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT): Found in Lexus hybrid models, this system is fundamentally different from a belt-driven CVT. It uses a planetary gear set to manage power flow and is known for its reliability and smooth, seamless acceleration from electric motors.
- Direct Shift-CVT (DCVT): This is a unique type of CVT found in some non-hybrid Lexus and Toyota vehicles, such as the Lexus UX. It features a physical first gear for initial acceleration, which helps manage torque stress on the CVT belt, making it more durable than a traditional belt-driven CVT.
- Traditional Automatic Transmissions: Lexus also uses conventional automatic transmissions with a fixed number of gears, such as an 8-speed automatic in models like the ES 350.
- Older Transmissions: Some older models may have used transmissions with fewer gears, like the 4-speed or 5-speed automatics found in earlier RX or ES generations.
What transmission does the IS 350 have?
The Lexus IS350 uses an 8-speed automatic transmission for Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) models and a 6-speed automatic transmission for All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid in a 2008 Lexus IS350: 47sFrank CumaioYouTube · Jul 30, 2024
- RWD: The rear-wheel drive version of the IS350 comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, also called the "Direct Shift" automatic.
- AWD: The all-wheel drive version of the IS350 comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Does Lexus have a CVT transmission?
Yes, some Lexus models, particularly hybrid versions, use an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). These e-CVTs are designed to be smooth and efficient and can be combined with a planetary gearset or a more traditional automatic transmission to create a hybrid powertrain, such as in the LC 500h or the RX 350 Hybrid.
You can watch this video to learn how Lexus's e-CVT system works: 57sspeedkar99YouTube · Nov 3, 2025
- e-CVT in hybrids: Many Lexus hybrid models, like the RX 350 Hybrid and the ES Hybrid, are equipped with an e-CVT that works with the electric motors for smooth acceleration and efficiency.
- LC 500h's Multi-Stage Hybrid Transmission: The LC 500h uses a unique system that combines a traditional CVT with a four-speed automatic transmission. This allows the CVT to work with the "gears" of the automatic to provide a more traditional feel and to create virtual gear ratios.
- CVT in a non-hybrid: The Lexus UX 200 was the first production vehicle to pair a conventional gasoline engine with a CVT and a physical gear.
