beebs

2021 Lexus IS 300 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Lexus IS 300 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Mileage (EPA estimate)

19 city, 26 highway, 21 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.Get Pre-qualified

All Lexus IS 300 years

What is new for the 2021 Lexus IS 300?

  • The F-Sport trim has been discontinued for 2021.
  • IS 300 trims have been upgraded with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Pioneer Sound System as standard equipment this year.
  • MACH Audio System features are now available as options on select trims.

2021 Lexus IS 300 trims

Curious how Lexus IS 300 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base:

  • 241-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • 260-hp, 236-lb-ft of torque 3.5L
  • Sunroofs
  • Rear Defroster
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Power Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Side Airbags
  • View our Lexus IS 300 inventory

5 reasons to buy the 2021 Lexus IS 300

1. Sporty exterior styling

This compact sedan is a head-turner. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 has the curb appeal of a sportscar with its bold front fascia design, narrow triple-beam headlight fixtures, wide hour-glass shaped grille, a body-colored front bumper, curvy sculpted hood, and rear spoiler-inspired detail above the trunk. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 comes in seven exterior color options (Matador Red Mica, Grecian Water, Eminent White Pearl, Atomic Silver, Caviar, Cloudburst Gray, and Iridium) and three interior choices (Black, Glazed Caramel, and Rioja Red). Business professionals, flashy singles, and those who want to make a statement entrance can do so easily in this car.

2. Two drivetrain choices

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 comes in two trims: the IS 300 RWD and the IS 300 AWD. All standard features are the same on both trims, but you can choose from either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The base model is a rear-wheel drive vehicle but the optional AWD is great if you're navigating inclement winter weather conditions, rural backroads, or other difficult conditions where extra grip would be helpful. Both drivetrains offer helpful driver assist features including forward collision mitigation, lane keeping, and adaptive cruise control.

3. Two engine options

If you opt for the IS 300 RWD trim, you'll get a spirited turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine cranking out 241 hp paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. If you choose the IS 300 AWD trim, you'll step up to a more powerful 3.5L V6 260-hp engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. This model manages zero to 60 in 6.1 seconds (according to the manufacturer), making it a nippy ride for highway commuters.

4. Ample tech features

Both 2021 Lexus IS 300 trims come with the same suite of in-cabin technology features. Music lovers will enjoy the standard 10-speaker audio system and satellite radio capability as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay® integration to stream your favorite tunes.

Teenage passengers will be happy to see two USB ports for charging their devices and Wi-Fi hotspot availability to stay connected to friends and family.

5. Multiple upgrade options

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 may only come in two trims, but you can easily find a used option that fits your lifestyle equipped with one of the additional packages or stand-alone features. For example, the Comfort Package includes a sunroof, heated steering wheel, and front seats with heating and ventilation. Those who road trip often or travel for work will appreciate those perks. Tech lovers and delivery drivers may look for a model with the Navigation Package, which upgrades the standard eight-inch touchscreen to a 10.3-inch option and adds on a navigation system.

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.Get Pre-qualified

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

Lexus IS 300 features and specs

Base 2WD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • CD Audio
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • MACH Audio System
  • Mark Levinson Sound
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Parking Sensors
  • Pioneer Sound System
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear Sunshade
  • Sunroof(s)

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

241

Torque (ft-lbs)

258

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

17.4

Wheelbase

110.2"

Overall length

185.4"

Width

72.4"

Height

56.5"

Leg room

F 44.8"/R 32.2"

Head room

F 38.2"/R 36.9"

Front tires

P235/45VR18

Rear tires

P235/45VR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2021 Lexus IS 300 FAQ

Research other vehicles



* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.