Used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport: A Stunning Ride with Sporty Elegance
If you're looking to make a bold statement on the road with a luxury sports sedan the used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport might be the car for you. This car combines performance style and comfort all wrapped up in the reliability Lexus is known for. But is it the right car for you? In this in-depth review we’ll break down everything you need to know about the used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport from its standout features to any potential drawbacks. Let's dive into why this car is a solid option for those in search of a thrilling yet practical ride.
The Overview: Lexus IS 350 F Sport At A Glance
The Lexus IS 350 F Sport made a strong impression when it hit the market in 2021. Positioned as a compact luxury sedan it offers a compelling balance of athletic performance and upscale comfort. The F Sport trim specifically takes the sporty nature of the IS lineup to the next level. With a focus on driver engagement and an emphasis on style and luxury features, it's one of the more exciting cars to drive in its class.
Design and Styling
Exterior Features
The 2021 IS 350 F Sport benefits from an aggressive exterior design. Its large spindle grille framed by sleek LED headlights gives it a strong road presence. It’s the kind of car that demands attention and that's exactly what it was designed to do. The sharp lines on the sides and athletic stance emphasize its sporty DNA. Even the small details like the 19-inch wheels (available with the F Sport trim) contribute to a bold and stylish look.
Color Options
The Lexus IS 350 F Sport comes in a variety of colors allowing you to personalize your vehicle's exterior look. Popular choices include:
- Ultra White
- Obsidian Black
- Grecian Water (a striking blue)
- Infrared (a head-turning red)
Each of these colors pairs exceptionally well with the black trim pieces around the car to create a cohesive and stylish appearance.
Interior Comfort and Quality
Lexus never skimps on its interiors and the 2021 IS 350 F Sport is no exception. The cabin is lined with high-quality materials like leatherette upholstery, aluminum accents, and an F Sport-specific steering wheel. Seating is supportive yet plush allowing for comfort on both short and long drives. There’s a strong focus on the driver with an ergonomic layout making all controls easily accessible.
Alex Collantes Opinion on the Interior
According to car enthusiast Alex Collantes "When I sat in the 2021 IS 350 F Sport for the first time it felt like I was stepping into a cockpit. Lexus did a fantastic job making sure the driver feels connected to the car. The seats hug you and the layout of the controls is simple and intuitive. It's a space that makes you wanna drive."
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Engine Specs and Performance
The 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class it’s certainly enough to make the IS 350 feel lively. The V6 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (RWD) or a six-speed automatic (AWD) providing smooth shifts and decent acceleration.
0-60 MPH Time: The IS 350 F Sport can go from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds, which is respectable for its class. This makes merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic a breeze.
Driving Modes
The F Sport model comes equipped with different driving modes which allow the driver to customize the driving experience:
- Eco Mode: Prioritizes fuel efficiency
- Normal Mode: A balance of power and comfort
- Sport Mode: Sharper throttle response and stiffer steering for a sportier feel
- Sport S/S+ Mode: Enhanced driving dynamics for spirited driving (exclusive to F Sport)
These modes help tailor the driving experience to your preferences or road conditions and they do make a noticeable difference.
Ride and Handling
One of the standout features of the IS 350 F Sport is its adaptive suspension system which helps the car feel planted and composed around corners. Steering is precise if not overly communicative and while the ride is a bit on the firm side (due to its sporty nature) it’s still comfortable for daily driving. The suspension strikes a nice balance between sporty handling and a smooth ride that doesn't become too jarring over rough roads.
Potential Drawbacks: Performance
While the IS 350 F Sport offers a smooth and engaging ride, some drivers may find the V6 engine to be slightly underpowered compared to rivals like the BMW 3 Series or Audi S4 which offer more power and quicker acceleration. Also, fuel economy is just average, with an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for RWD models.
Technology and Features
Infotainment System
The Lexus Enform infotainment system comes standard in the IS 350 F Sport. It features a 8-inch touchscreen (or an optional 10.3-inch screen) that sits prominently on the dashboard. The system includes Apple CarPlay Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility allowing for easy integration of smartphones.
Usability
A downside here is the touchpad controller used to navigate the infotainment system. It can be a bit finicky and distracting while driving. However, the touchscreen helps alleviate some of these issues and voice commands work fairly well too.
Sound System and Entertainment
For audiophiles the Mark Levinson premium sound system is a must-have option. The 17-speaker system delivers crisp clear audio making your favorite tunes sound incredible whether you're cruising the highway or stuck in traffic.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Lexus IS 350 F Sport comes with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 which includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features like:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Intelligent High Beams
While these features make driving safer some may find the alerts to be overly sensitive or the lane-keeping assist a bit intrusive.
Interior Space and Practicality
Space and Comfort
The front seats of the IS 350 F Sport are spacious and offer plenty of support for spirited driving. Legroom is ample in the front but taller passengers in the back seat might find the legroom a bit tight especially if the front seats are pushed back.
Cargo Capacity
The trunk space is somewhat limited compared to other sedans in its class with only 10.8 cubic feet of cargo room. While it’s enough for a few suitcases or grocery bags you may find yourself wishing for a bit more space if you plan on road trips or frequently carry larger items.
Pricing and Value
Pricing for a Used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport
A used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport generally falls in the price range of $35,000 to $45,000 depending on mileage condition and optional features. This price point makes it a relatively affordable entry into the luxury sports sedan market especially considering the reliability and build quality Lexus is known for.
Resale Value
Lexus vehicles tend to hold their value well over time so if you decide to sell or trade in your IS 350 F Sport down the road you can expect a strong resale value compared to many competitors.
Pros and Cons: Quick Overview
Pros:
- Stylish Exterior and High-Quality Interior: The car looks as good as it feels with attention to detail both inside and out.
- Engaging Driving Dynamics: Offers a sporty ride without sacrificing too much comfort.
- Lexus Reliability: Known for its long-lasting quality and dependable performance.
- Good Resale Value: Retains value better than many competitors in its class.
Cons:
- Infotainment Usability: Touchpad controller can be frustrating and distracting.
- Limited Rear Legroom: Back seat space is not as generous as some rivals.
- Average Fuel Economy and Performance: Doesn’t outperform some of its competitors in terms of power or efficiency.
Final Thoughts: Is the Used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Worth It?
The used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is a compelling choice for those seeking a luxury sedan that combines style sporty driving dynamics and comfort. While it has its drawbacks like a finicky infotainment system and modest rear seat space it still offers a well-rounded package that will appeal to many drivers.
Alex Collantes’ Takeaway
Alex Collantes has shared "I think the 2021 IS 350 F Sport is a fantastic car for those who want something that looks great and feels great to drive. Sure it's not the fastest in its class and yeah the tech could be a little more user-friendly but at the end of the day it's a car that you'll want to get in and drive every single day."
In conclusion if you're looking for a luxury sports sedan with reliable performance sporty aesthetics and a high-quality interior a used 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering.
References
(Note: As an AI language model I don’t have access to specific external sources. This article is based on a wide knowledge base up to April 2024.)
- Lexus Official Website: www.lexus.com
- Consumer Reviews and Specifications: www.edmunds.com
- Expert Opinions and User Reviews: www.kbb.com
- Automotive News and Updates: www.motortrend.com
By focusing on the positive aspects of the Lexus IS 350 F Sport while acknowledging potential drawbacks this review provides a balanced look at why this car could be the perfect choice for you.