2020 Lexus IS 300 review

1. Bold design

The 2020 Lexus IS is a head-turner inside and out. You'll notice the aggressive grille, swept-back headlights and vents, bold wheel arches, and large wheels in profile, with body contouring tail lights in the back. Inside, it's all stealth fighter vibes from heavily bolstered seats to a plethora of switches and a slick interactive gauge cluster display. The comfortable and spacious interior seats up to five adults, with soft-touch features everywhere, and with contrast stitching on the leather and real wood accents.

2. AWD convenience

All-wheel drive is incredibly useful for driving on rain or snow-slicked roads. The 2020 Lexus IS is rear-wheel drive, with optional AWD convenience in every trim. Base IS 300, high-end IS 350, or F Sport performance version all can have rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with a slight difference: the AWD model gets a six-speed automatic while the RWD model has an eight-speed auto. If your winters are wet or harsh, the Lexus IS with AWD will get you home.

3. Powerful engines

The base IS 300 receives a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder making 241 horsepower. Look for the IS 300 with AWD for a 3.5L V6 with 260 hp. The attention-getter is the IS 350. This version of the 3.5L V6 makes 311 horsepower for quick acceleration and effortless highway passing. When new, zero to 60 mph passes in just 5.5 seconds according to the manufacturer, when new. Any of the IS engines deliver satisfying driving, but the IS 350 backs up the sporty looks.

4. F Sport version

Rather than just a badge on this sport trim, Lexus makes this trim a unique car, with different grille, headlights, and bodywork setting it apart from the base model. Underneath, the performance-tuned suspension grips the road confidently, but without a harsh ride. F Sport speaks to the driver as well, with a standard performance screen that displays everything from cornering g-forces to turbocharger boost pressure. The F Sport is a no-compromise performance car that is comfortable enough for daily commuting.

5. Cutting-edge tech

The IS is a Lexus, so you know they're going to show off some tech. The standard seven-inch display and 10-speaker audio system are controlled by a rotary knob instead of several distracting touches. The optional 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen includes navigation, and the 15-speaker Mark Levinson^® sound system will leave you with a deeper appreciation for your music collection.

Optional adaptive headlights move with the steering wheel to increase night-time visibility, while inside, you'll appreciate the optional heated steering wheel on cold mornings.