2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Sedan

The 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is only available in one trim level in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The standard feature list is extensive and includes 19-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry with push-button start, heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and a capable 8-inch infotainment system. Being a Lexus, you also get a plethora of driver assistance features as standard. 

*Expected

Customers can also opt for the Dynamic Handling package ($4,200) which includes silver ash heated steering wheel, card key entry system, silver ash interior trims, Torsen limited-slip differential, adaptive variable suspension system, and SPORT+ driving mode. An upgraded 10.3-inch infotainment system and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system are also available as options. 

Which trim should you buy?

Since the IS 350 F Sport is only available in one trim level, the only real choice is between the rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive drivetrain. It must be noted that the RWD option uses an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission compared to the 6-speed unit in the AWD. While the standard feature list is extensive, the Dynamic Handling package is recommended if you plan on doing some hot laps at your local racetrack.

Release Date

The 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is expected to be in the dealerships by the fall of 2021.

The 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport swaps out the 4-pot unit in the base trim with a more powerful 3.5L naturally aspirated V-6 engine that belts out 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission in the rear-drive models and a 6-speed automatic in the all-wheel-drive models. Being the F Sport trim, performance upgrades like a cold-air intake system, a limited-slip rear differential, and a sports exhaust system are standard.

Since it’s one of the only naturally aspirated engines in its class, response and performance are impressive. But, it lacks the mid-range of its rivals, resulting in slower acceleration figures. The IS 350 F Sport takes 5.7 seconds to reach 60 MPH and manages to dip under the 14-second quarter-mile time. While performance is not as brisk as its rivals, the power is a lot more tractable and easier to use in everyday conditions, and the V6 engine sounds glorious through the sports exhaust system.

*2021 specs used for reference

Despite its aggressive styling, the Lexus IS takes a more balanced approach to dynamics, focusing more on comfort. But, the F Sport trim gets several upgrades like a staggered wheel setup, limited-slip rear differential, and a retuned suspension setup to improve handling. The end result is a sporty handling sedan that offers good cornering balance and capabilities. Opting for the rear-wheel-drive model is recommended for enthusiasts as it improves the overall cornering capabilities.

The Lexus IS breaks the norm by offering a bigger V-6 engine that produces over 300 hp. But, it still cannot match the turbocharged units of its competitors in terms of real-world performance and falls behind all three options. Both the BMW 330i and Audi A4 45 are the fastest, followed closely by the Mercedes-Benz C300. When comparing the price range, The Lexus IS 350 F Sport is the most expensive option.

One of the biggest drawbacks of going with a V-6 naturally aspirated engine instead of a smaller turbocharged unit is efficiency. The IS F Sport returns just 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, resulting in a combined MPG of just 23, which is a far cry from its rivals. To compensate for the low figures, Lexus has provided a larger 17.4-gallon fuel tank, giving the IS a usable highway range of nearly 500 miles.

*2021 specs used for reference

Unfortunately, the V-6 engine in the Lexus IS does limit efficiency compared to the turbocharged units offered by competitors. The BMW 330i returns the highest efficiency figures, while the Mercedes-Benz C300 offers the longest range. The Audi A4 S also manages to perform better with a combined mileage of 27 MPG. When it comes to the overall range, the best-in-class fuel capacity of Mercedes, which it ties with the Lexus, manages to offer the class-leading range of 487 miles.

With no significant updates to the interior, the Lexus IS is starting to show its age. But, it doesn't take away from the premium experience. Several design elements are carried over from the LS sedan, and the interiors look built to last with a typical Japanese design. The slightly cluttered center console can get intimidating for new owners, and the central display is placed at the top, above the central clock.

The 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport also gets plenty of standard features, including keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, leather upholstery, and more. The front bucket seats offer plenty of support, keeping you in place through some fast corners. But, the same can't be said about the rear seats which feel cramped with limited legroom. The cargo space behind the second row is also very limited at just 10.6 cubic feet, limiting practicality.

*2021 specs used for reference

All the sedans in the competition come with a seating capacity of 5, which is the segment's standard. Because of the sloping roofline and the unique coupe-like design, the Lexus IS offers the least passenger space in its class, especially at the rear. Cargo space is also very limited at just 10.8 cubic feet. The BMW 330i is the most practical option, followed by the Mercedes-Benz C300 and Audi A4. Some notable interior features include:

• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Card key entry system (Optional)
• Power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation
• Heated steering wheel
• Synthetic leather upholstery

What’s there to keep you entertained?

While all the usual features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth, satellite radio, HD radio, and more are available as standard through an 8-inch touchscreen display, the interface is starting to feel dated with complicated menus. The system can also be controlled using a touchpad on the center console for easier access without distracting the driver, but personally, we are not a fan of that touchscreen since the rivals are going all out with large touchscreen infotainment setups.

Amazon Alexa integration is also included as standard with voice commands. Customers can also opt for a bigger 10.3-inch system with built-in navigation, and a Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system with 1800 watts of peak power. Apart from all these optional and impressive tech support, the sedan also gets all the basics one needs in day-to-day life. Some notable infotainment features include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display
• Satellite and HD radio
• 10-speaker premium audio system
• Bluetooth and USB connectivity
• Amazon Alexa integration

The Lexus has always stood out with an aggressive design that looks fast even when standing still, but it will deter customers who’re looking for a more elegant and simple design. After a significant refresh last year, the IS looks as sharp as ever with plenty of cuts and creases throughout the body. The signature Lexus hourglass grille sits at the front flanked by LED headlights and subtle air vents under it. The 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport takes it up a notch with bigger 19-inch wheels, restyled front and rear bumpers, a trunk-lid spoiler, and more. The Dynamic Handling package also adds unique matte black BBS wheels and a carbon fiber rear spoiler.

*2021 specs used for reference

The Lexus IS is one of the more compact options in its class, and also gets the shortest wheelbase. But, it is considerably heavier than the BMW 330i and the Mercedes-Benz C300, both of which are slightly bigger in terms of dimensions. When comparing the ground clearance of the sedans in the competition, Lexus has the most at 5.5 inches, followed by Audi with a clearance of 5.2 inches. Some notable exterior features include:

• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Adaptive LED headlights
• Restyled front and rear bumpers
• Trunk lid spoiler
• Dual outlet exhausts

Lexus has always been touted as one of the safest brands in the market, and the latest IS continues that trend by offering almost all driver assistance features available as standard, including forward-collision warning with cyclist and pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and more. The IS continues to be based on Toyota's N platform that also underpins the RC coupe. 

The 2021 model also received the highest scores in both the NHTSA and IIHS safety tests, securing the "Top Safety Pick+" award. Customers can also opt for front and rear parking sensors, automatic park assist, and a 360-degree parking camera system. Braking performance is impressive with a good pedal feel and response. From 60 MPH, the IS takes just 110 feet to drop anchor, which is better than most of its rivals. Some notable standard safety features include:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keep assist
• Road sign recognition
• Automatic high-beam system
• Rearview camera system

2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport vs 2022 Audi A4

Like most modern luxury sedans, the Audi A4 gets a turbocharged powertrain that trumps the Lexus IS in terms of performance and efficiency. As a bonus, you also get all-wheel drive as standard with the A4 along with a more comprehensive feature list. However, the Lexus offers more standard safety tech, most of which are optional on the Audi. Both cars balance dynamics and comfort well, but the Audi A4 is arguably a better package and offers a lot more value.

2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport vs 2022 BMW 3-Series

Even with the V-6 equipped F Sport, the Lexus cannot match the BMW 3-Series in terms of dynamics and performance. Thanks to its more modern powertrain, the 3-Series is also easier to live with, and significantly more efficient than the V-6 engine in the Lexus. The BMW also offers better practicality with better passenger and cargo space. Overall, the BMW 3-Series is a better package that trumps the Lexus in every way except reliability and maintenance.

2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

With a complete redesign for 2022, the Mercedes C-Class retakes its throne as the best compact executive car on the market. Like the Lexus, the C-Class also gets a rear-drive platform with excellent dynamics and performance. With plenty of design elements carried over from the flagship S-Class, the C-Class is easily the more luxurious option of the two, especially since the Lexus IS has remained mostly unchanged since the third generation launched back in 2013. Unsurprisingly, the C-Class is also faster than the Lexus IS despite the power deficit. Overall, as an executive car that focuses on luxury, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class easily takes the win.

The Lexus IS continues to be one of the more compelling sports sedans in the market, especially in the 350 F Sport trim level that adds a powerful V6 engine and plenty of performance upgrades. While it can't match the market leaders in terms of practicality and performance, it makes up for it with a stunning design, a comprehensive feature list, and bulletproof Japanese reliability. Overall, if you're looking for a sports sedan that looks the part and stands out from the crowd, the 2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is an excellent option.