2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport for Sale: A Detailed Review
If you’re looking to buy a car that blends luxury performance and sporty style the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a compelling option. This luxury sedan has attracted a lot of attention from car enthusiasts and for good reason. It offers a great combination of performance features tech and that signature Lexus reliability. In this article we'll provide an in-depth review of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport and tell you everything you need to know before making a purchase. So if you’re on the lookout for a 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport for sale read on and see if this sleek sedan matches what you're searching for.
Why the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport Stands Out
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is not just another luxury sedan. It has a sporty edge to it that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class. With the F Sport package you get styling upgrades a sport-tuned suspension and other performance enhancements that make driving this car a whole different experience. Let's dig into some of the features and specifications that make this car special.
Engine Performance and Driving Experience
The heart of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is its 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine. Delivering 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque it offers a smooth yet spirited drive. You can expect strong acceleration that's engaging on both highways and city streets. The 8-speed automatic transmission is responsive offering quick gear shifts when you need a burst of speed. The driving experience is definitely more sporty than your average sedan.
The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version gives a more dynamic driving feel while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant is available for those looking for extra traction especially in harsh weather conditions. It should be noted though that the AWD version comes with a 3.5L V6 engine offering 260 hp which is a bit less peppy than the RWD turbocharged variant.
Drawbacks
While the 2.0L turbo engine is capable it may not offer the same adrenaline-pumping power that you would get from higher-performance sedans like the BMW 3 Series or the Audi A4. Additionally some drivers find the turbocharged engine’s power delivery a bit "laggy" especially during rapid acceleration which can make it feel less immediate compared to a naturally aspirated engine.
Interior Design and Comfort
High-Quality Materials and Finishes
Stepping inside the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport you'll notice that the cabin is crafted with high-quality materials. The seats are wrapped in leatherette upholstery with the option to upgrade to genuine leather for a more premium feel. The F Sport package adds sport front seats that offer greater support along with exclusive trim pieces and branding that give the interior a sportier look.
Tech and Infotainment
A major highlight in the interior is the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system which can be upgraded to a 10.3-inch screen for a more immersive experience. The system supports Apple CarPlay Android Auto and Amazon Alexa making it easy to connect your smartphone and access apps while driving.
Pros of the Infotainment System:
- Crisp display with good responsiveness
- Intuitive and user-friendly controls
- Clear audio from the premium 10-speaker sound system
Cons:
- The touchpad controller can be somewhat finicky and distracting while driving
- Some drivers may find the infotainment menus a bit cumbersome compared to the more intuitive systems from competitors like BMW iDrive or Audi MMI
Comfort and Space
The front seats in the IS 300 F Sport are very supportive and comfortable with 8-way power adjustments allowing for a customized fit. However the rear seats might feel a bit tight for taller passengers particularly in terms of legroom. The trunk space is also a bit on the smaller side at 10.8 cubic feet so packing for long trips may require a little bit of planning.
Exterior Styling and Appeal
Bold Design Language
One of the most striking aspects of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is its aggressive exterior styling. The car features the bold spindle grille a hallmark of the Lexus brand as well as sleek LED headlights and taillights that contribute to a sharp and dynamic appearance. The 18-inch F Sport wheels add an extra layer of sportiness to the overall look making this car a head-turner wherever it goes.
Safety Features and Ratings
Advanced Safety Tech
Lexus prioritizes safety in the 2021 IS 300 F Sport by equipping it with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 which includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
These features are designed to enhance both active and passive safety helping to reduce the risk of collisions and providing an added layer of driver assistance.
Safety Ratings
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport has performed well in crash tests. However some competitors have achieved slightly higher safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. So while it's certainly a safe car there are other options in this class that may provide a tiny bit more peace of mind when it comes to crashworthiness.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Efficiency Numbers
One of the considerations when buying a performance-focused sedan is fuel economy. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport delivers solid numbers:
- RWD model: 21 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
- AWD V6 model: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
These numbers are competitive for the class but the turbocharged engine does require premium fuel which could add to your running costs over time. For eco-conscious buyers this may not be the most fuel-efficient option available in the segment.
Pricing and Value
Affordable Luxury
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport offers great value for a luxury sedan. It has a starting price of around $41,000 which is relatively reasonable considering its range of features and Lexus's reputation for reliability and resale value. Adding additional packages such as the Navigation Package or upgrading to AWD will increase the price but still keeps it within reach of many luxury car buyers.
Potential Drawbacks in Value
While the IS 300 F Sport offers a great blend of style performance and luxury some competitors like the Genesis G70 may offer a bit more standard features and tech at a similar price point. Additionally German rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz might offer better leasing deals which could sway buyers who are more cost-conscious.
Customer Reviews and Ownership Experience
Real-World Feedback
Drivers of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport have generally given it high marks for its comfort smooth driving experience and stylish looks. One owner Alex Collantes shared their thoughts on the car:
"The IS 300 F Sport has been a fantastic car for me. I love the way it drives and looks sporty but still maintains that Lexus luxury and comfort. The only downside I’ve noticed is that sometimes the infotainment system is a bit distracting but once you get used to it it’s not a big deal."
Pros & Cons According to Owners
Pros:
- Smooth and sporty driving experience
- High-quality interior materials and build
- Excellent reliability and resale value
Cons:
- Rear seat and trunk space are somewhat limited
- Infotainment system may take some time to get used to
- Turbocharged engine's power delivery is not as linear as some might prefer
How to Find a 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport for Sale
If you're ready to start looking for a 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport for sale here are some tips:
- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Programs: Check out Lexus's CPO program which provides extended warranties and a multi-point inspection.
- Dealerships: Visit Lexus dealerships in your area or use online platforms to search for inventory.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like Cars.com Autotrader and CarGurus can be a great way to find both new and used models at competitive prices.
Key Specifications
Here are some quick specs to give you an overview of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo I4 (RWD) or 3.5L V6 (AWD) |
| Horsepower | 241 hp (RWD) / 260 hp (AWD) |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft (RWD) / 236 lb-ft (AWD) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic (RWD) / 6-speed automatic (AWD) |
| Fuel Economy | 21/31/25 mpg (RWD) / 19/26/22 mpg (AWD) |
| Starting Price | $41,000 approx. |
Final Thoughts: Is the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport Worth Buying?
If you’re in the market for a sporty luxury sedan with reliable performance and Lexus quality the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a strong contender. It offers an engaging drive high-end materials and a bold design that sets it apart. While there are some drawbacks like the smaller rear seat space and a not-so-perfect infotainment system the overall package is appealing for those seeking affordable luxury and fun driving dynamics.
If you find a 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport for sale in your area take it for a test drive and see if it’s the right fit for your needs and lifestyle.
References
While this review is based on a comprehensive analysis of available specs customer feedback and expert opinions it's always best to do your own research and consult resources such as:
Each source will provide further detailed information about the 2021 Lexus IS 300 F Sport helping you make an informed decision about your purchase.