What is it that we like about the Lexus IS platform? The fact that it takes all the good stuff inherent in a mid-size sedan, adds the Lexus touch, then brings it a level up. Consistently.
The IS is a mid-size rear wheel drive sedan, so by nature it can combine tightness of handling with the emotional advantages that driving to the rear wheels can bring you. And right now, you have a great choose-your-weapon opportunity.
The IS 300 H is a hybrid, which is more the executive type. Typical Lexus smoothness and quiet, with both added to when the hybrid comes in. The car also makes a stated 5.2 liters per hundred kilometers, so that and the fact that it isn’t hampered by arcane vehicle coding laws creates a great opportunity.
The one to play with is the IS 350 F Sport, which comes with an attitude and the specs to match. Not pushy, still Lexus so still at the appropriate levels of, well, everything. But it comes with a wonderfully analog normally-aspirated 3.5 liter V6 that produces 312 horsepower and runs it through a limited slip differential to the rear wheels. It feels tight and nimble and is a joy to throttle steer. Additional goodness comes with some special styling details such as the 19-inch alloy wheels and leather sport seats.
The IS platform, and in particular the sportier F variants, have proven themselves the proper mixes for those that appreciate the comfort and handling characteristics of mid-size sedans. They also rather quietly started taking the lead away from the more established European sports sedans in that segment. They did this by providing as a base the level of attention to detail and quality of experience than more buyers wanted, then they started refining the whole package. Suspension tweaks and powertrain development and more sophisticated programming all contributed to making the IS a car that quietly just became better.
Entering the car makes you feel right at home. It is still a very analog experience, purposeful and premium but not overly plush. It helps you do what you want, whether that is everyday driving smoothly or taking corners a little more aggressively and directing the car around with your right foot. All while still providing the basically bulletproof ownership experience that is so important when you truly value your time.
