2018 Lexus is 350 AWD Sedan review:   Performance and unique good looks

By Autoreviewman

For 2018, the Lexus IS 350 is the brands street fighting, road warrior sedan with its taut mix of angular styling and complex curves giving it an aggressive, road hugging look that will have all performance fans salivating. The F Sport Performance package option remains and there is added technology for 2018. The Lexus, big spindle grille offers a unique look and there is a very pleasing sporty ambience inside and outside the car.   Buyer will be very impressed by the sporty, beautifully detailed cabin and the great ergonomics, but note the IS 350 is not as roomy as the bigger Lexus models in the rear compartment.

The smart looking IS 350 we  tested was powered by a 6-Cylinder, 3.5 Litre V6 engine with All Wheel Drive (AWD), Vehicle Stability Control, (VSC), Traction Control System (TRAC), Vehicle Dynamics Integrated management (VDIM).the transmission was a 6-Speed, Automatic, Super Electronically Controlled Transmission (Super ECT), with Sequential Multi-Mode Shifter.

Our fully loaded tester came with the following options: F SPORT Series 3 pack ($2,900.00),Heated Steering Wheel , 3-Spoke F SPORT Steering Wheel , Adaptive Variable Suspension , P255/35R18 (Rear) , P225/40R18 (Front) , F SPORT Center Wheel Ornament , 18″ F SPORT Wheels , 15 Speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound Audio System , 10 Speakers , Blind Spot Monitor , Rear Cross Traffic Alert , Heated & Ventilated Front Seats , F SPORT Seats , Power Rear Window Sunshade , LFA Style Full TFT Instrument Cluster , Power Moonroof , F SPORT Front Grille , F SPORT Aero Package , F SPORT Shift Knob , F SPORT Scuff Plates , LED Headlamps , and Adaptive Front Lighting System. Base MSRP for our tester was $52,900.00 plus options $2,900.00.

On the road, the   IS 350’s 3.5-liter V-6 is a solid performer with 311 hp and 277 lb-ft, and paired with the all-wheel drive transmission. Acceleration is quick and the auto box shifts smoothly and is well calibrated. Engine torque is readily available and there is no lack of power anywhere in the rev band. Four built-in modes include Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport mode that offers very exhilarating performance. Comfort mode is good for daily about town driving. With great traction, and entertaining handling, the Lexus IS 350 is a wonderful car to drive. Performance orientated and practical it’s a winner! Highly recommended.

2018 Lexus IS 350 Priced from $52,900 Subtotal $55,800.00 Freight & PDI $2,045.00

  Total MSRP* $57,971.25