The Stunning 2021 Lexus IS350 for Sale - A Luxurious and Sporty Choice for Every Driver
If you’re looking for a blend of luxury, power, and stylish design, the 2021 Lexus IS350 for sale might just be the car for you. With its refined driving dynamics, comfortable interior, and cutting-edge technology, this sedan offers a fantastic combination of performance and comfort. Let's dive into the details of what makes the Lexus IS350 stand out in the luxury sedan market and what potential drawbacks you should consider before making your purchase. We’ll also share insights from automotive expert Alex Collantes to give you a well-rounded perspective on the 2021 Lexus IS350.
What Makes the 2021 Lexus IS350 Special?
The Lexus IS350 is all about delivering an engaging driving experience with its sporty design and well-tuned suspension. For 2021, Lexus has made some significant upgrades to the IS lineup, making it more attractive than ever for those looking for luxury without breaking the bank.
Performance & Power: The Heart of the IS350
The 2021 Lexus IS350 comes equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The engine offers a thrilling performance with its high-revving power and a responsive feel that gives drivers a sporty edge on the road. The IS350 is available in two different drivetrain options:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) – Comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) – Equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The RWD configuration enhances the sporty feel with its precise handling and balanced weight distribution. The AWD version adds extra traction for those in areas with inclement weather or anyone who prefers a more planted driving experience.
How Fast is the Lexus IS350?
- 0-60 mph in around 5.6 seconds (RWD)
- Top speed around 143 mph
These numbers may not place the IS350 among the fastest in its segment, but it strikes a balance between power and comfort, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and weekend adventures alike.
Potential Drawbacks: Engine & Transmission
While the V6 engine of the IS350 is plenty powerful, some may find it lacks the low-end torque of some turbocharged competitors. Additionally, the 8-speed transmission in the RWD model can sometimes feel a bit sluggish, especially during aggressive driving. According to Alex Collantes, “The IS350's power is smooth and consistent, but you might miss that punchy feel you get from turbocharged engines in some of its rivals.”
Design: Sporty Looks Meet Sophistication
The 2021 Lexus IS350 has been given a facelift to enhance its sporty appeal. With a more aggressive front grille, sharp LED headlights, and a refined body shape, the IS350 looks every bit like the sports sedan it aims to be.
Exterior Features: Bold & Distinctive
The redesigned exterior features make the 2021 Lexus IS350 stand out in traffic. Here are some standout exterior features:
- Spindle Grille: Lexus' signature grille with a 3-dimensional mesh pattern for an eye-catching look.
- Standard LED Headlights and Taillights: A sharp, modern look and improved visibility.
- Sporty Alloy Wheels: Available in 18-inch and optional 19-inch wheels for a more dynamic appearance.
Color Options
The 2021 Lexus IS350 offers a variety of paint options to suit different tastes:
- Ultra White
- Obsidian Black
- Grecian Water
- Infrared
- Atomic Silver
With these choices, there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for something sleek and understated or a more flashy color that will turn heads.
Drawback: Backseat Space
One of the issues that some drivers may face with the IS350 is its limited backseat space. Tall passengers may feel a bit cramped, especially during long journeys. "For families or those who frequently drive with multiple passengers, the IS350 may not be the most spacious option out there," notes Alex Collantes.
Interior Comfort & Features: Luxury and Tech in Harmony
Step inside the 2021 Lexus IS350 and you'll find an interior that strikes a perfect balance between luxury, comfort, and functionality. Lexus has focused on creating a driver-centric cabin, using high-quality materials throughout, and offering a range of tech features that make the driving experience enjoyable and stress-free.
Seating & Upholstery
The IS350 offers supportive and comfortable seats that provide ample cushioning for long drives. Lexus offers premium materials and finishes, with options for NuLuxe synthetic leather upholstery or leather-trimmed seating for a more upscale feel. Heated and ventilated front seats come standard in the F Sport trim, ensuring you remain comfortable no matter the weather.
Technology: Infotainment and Connectivity
Lexus has improved its infotainment system to make it more user-friendly. The 2021 Lexus IS350 features an 8-inch touchscreen display (or an optional 10.3-inch screen for those looking for a larger display), positioned closer to the driver for easier access.
Key features include:
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto integration
- Amazon Alexa compatibility
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Premium audio system (optional Mark Levinson surround-sound system with 17 speakers)
Downside: Infotainment System Usability
While Lexus has improved its infotainment system, the touchpad controller remains a bit tricky to use. Some drivers might find it unintuitive, particularly when trying to make adjustments while driving. “The infotainment system has improved over previous years, but the touchpad still feels like an unnecessary challenge at times,” shares Alex Collantes.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Lexus has packed the IS350 with a suite of safety and driver assistance features to ensure peace of mind on the road. The standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Tracing Assist and Lane Departure Alert
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Automatic High Beams
These features work together to make the IS350 a safe and reliable choice for any driver. The Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also available as options for those who want added visibility on the road.
Safety Ratings
The 2021 Lexus IS350 has received high safety ratings from major testing bodies. This, along with its impressive driver assistance features, makes it a great choice for those prioritizing safety.
Cons: Limited Advanced Driver Assistance Features
While the IS350 offers a decent range of safety features, it lacks some of the advanced driver assistance technologies available in some of its rivals, such as adaptive cruise control with full stop-and-go capability or hands-free driving modes.
The Driving Experience: Smooth Yet Sporty
Driving the 2021 Lexus IS350 is an experience defined by a smooth ride and responsive handling. The adaptive suspension on the F Sport trim provides a balance between comfort and sportiness, making it a fun car to drive on winding roads without sacrificing ride quality over rough surfaces.
Handling and Steering
The steering is sharp and direct, giving the driver confidence in the car's ability to handle corners effectively. The F Sport model adds features like a limited-slip differential and sport-tuned suspension for an even more engaging driving experience.
Trim Levels & Pricing
The 2021 Lexus IS350 is available in a few different trims to suit a variety of preferences and budgets:
IS350 RWD
- Base price: around $42,900
- Includes standard features such as Apple CarPlay, 8-inch touchscreen, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.5.
IS350 AWD
- Base price: around $44,900
- Adds all-wheel drive for improved traction in various weather conditions.
IS350 F Sport
- Base price: around $45,900
- Adds sporty features like the F Sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, and F Sport exterior styling for a more aggressive look.
Pricing Drawback: Slightly More Expensive than Some Rivals
While the IS350 offers a lot of value for its price, it is slightly more expensive than some of its competitors, like the BMW 3 Series or Acura TLX. However, for those who value Lexus' reputation for reliability and comfort, the price premium may be well worth it.
Fuel Economy: Decent for the Class
The fuel economy of the 2021 Lexus IS350 is competitive for its class, although not class-leading.
- RWD: Around 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- AWD: Around 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
This fuel economy makes the IS350 a decent choice for daily driving, though if you're looking for a more fuel-efficient sedan, there may be better options.
Pros and Cons of the 2021 Lexus IS350
Pros:
- Stylish, Sporty Design: Aggressive exterior design with bold lines.
- Powerful V6 Engine: Delivers smooth and responsive performance.
- Premium Interior: High-quality materials and comfortable seating.
- Safety Features: Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 comes standard.
- Lexus Reliability: Known for long-term durability and value retention.
Cons:
- Limited Rear-Seat Space: Cramped for taller passengers.
- Touchpad Infotainment Controller: Can be difficult to use.
- Transmission Performance: 8-speed can feel sluggish at times.
- Pricey Compared to Some Competitors: Slight premium over similar models.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2021 Lexus IS350 the Right Car for You?
The 2021 Lexus IS350 stands out as a well-rounded luxury sedan that offers style, performance, and reliability. While it may have a few drawbacks, such as limited rear-seat space and a finicky infotainment system, the overall package is impressive for those who prioritize a sporty yet comfortable driving experience.
According to Alex Collantes, "The 2021 IS350 is an excellent choice for those who want a luxury sedan that doesn't sacrifice driving enjoyment. It’s a car that delivers on comfort and performance, and even though there are a few minor downsides, the overall experience is hard to beat."
If you're looking for a 2021 Lexus IS350 for sale, now is a great time to take one for a test drive and see if it's the luxury sedan that fits your lifestyle.
References:
- Lexus Official Website - 2021 Lexus IS350 Overview
- Edmunds.com - 2021 Lexus IS350 Review
- MotorTrend - 2021 Lexus IS350 Road Test
By exploring this article you’ll have a well-rounded idea of what makes the 2021 Lexus IS350 a fantastic choice for a luxury sports sedan and why it could be the perfect car to add to your garage.