What year IS the 3rd gen Lexus IS 350?
The 3rd-generation Lexus IS 350 was produced for model years 2014 through 2020 in most markets, with a mid-cycle refresh around 2017.
In the broader context, the third-generation IS, built on the XE30 platform, debuted publicly in 2013 and reached customers as a 2014 model year. The IS 350 variant, powered by a 3.5-liter V6, remained a staple of this generation until Lexus introduced the fourth generation for the 2021 model year. Market-by-market timing can vary slightly, but the widely cited span for the IS 350 within the third generation is 2014–2020.
Timeline and notable updates
Below is a concise year-by-year outline highlighting when the IS 350 appeared within the third generation and the major updates that defined its lifecycle.
- 2014 — The third generation debuts in the United States as the 2014 model year, with the IS 350 offering the 3.5-liter V6 and configurations including rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
- 2015–2016 — Continued production of the IS 350 in the XE30 lineup, maintaining the core powertrain and chassis while refining options and equipment levels.
- 2017 — Mid-cycle refresh introduces notable styling updates (including a refreshed front fascia and lighting), upgraded technology and safety features, and expanded F Sport availability, while the IS 350 remains the core model of the lineup.
- 2018–2020 — Final years of the third generation, with incremental feature updates and package refinements as Lexus prepared the transition to the next generation.
In summary, the IS 350 of the third generation spans model years 2014 through 2020 in most markets, with a mid-cycle refresh occurring in 2017. The fourth generation arrived for the 2021 model year, marking a clean break from the XE30 platform.
Summary
The third-generation Lexus IS 350 is defined by its 2014–2020 model-year range, a 2017 mid-cycle refresh, and its place as the final iteration before the 2021 shift to the fourth generation. For buyers and enthusiasts, that period represents the complete lifecycle of the IS 350 in the third generation.
