Also because it's still technically a 3rd gen, it is still lacking some commonly found luxury features; Pano Roof, HUD, memory seats, power-adjustable steering wheel, and power-folding mirrors. None of which bother me besides PFmirrors. Despite its shortcomings, I still think this is one of the best in its class for the reasons listed in the video. Thanks for watching!!!
I looked at the sales figures and its the best selling car in its class? Have no idea why. At least the is500 will have a real drivetrain. Black anything on a car will turn to garbage in a few weeks!
also its missing all that plus wireless charging for your phone(even the camry has it now) also ambient lighting. If they did a serious update this car would be perfect, legit all they need to do is add the 2022 NX interior and features in the IS and boom
That's odd. Here in the Philippines we can get it with power folding mirrors, power adjustable steering wheel and memory seats. No HUD though but I think other regions have it.
I guess in Lexus mindset they perfected this car in looks. It would’ve been nice if they added luxury features like ambient lighting and such but yea. It’s beautiful at least. Def a refresh
fax, i think its not enough in my opinion, it def needs a more updated interior like the new 2022 NX, the ambient lighting and wireless charging is like base in most cars now especially around that price point but the IS is still missing it, also some more torque is needed
My thoughts exactly. I want to buy this car but the insides really don’t compare favorably to the germans. I also just really want some ambient lighting.
@@susanscherer4570 is there really ambient lighting for the doors? I have watched so many videos on this and I don’t think i’ve ever seen any? Showroom IS didn’t have any either.
@@chevyss934 that was the only thing that stopped me from buying it , I'm going to take a look at the 2022 NX maybe they will fix the interior for the 2022 IS fingers crossed
This new Lexus IS is by far the best looking IS and is better looking than anything in its class regardless of price. It will be the most reliable and retaining the best value as used. Lexus vehicles age like fine wine.
Great review. Now that the GS350 F-sport is dead I 100% agree with your take. I bought one of the last GS back in November. To me the GS was the ultimate long trip/sporty/commuter car without going German. It had phenomenal value. Similar to the GX. All they had to do was small facelift and add CarPlay. They could have squeezed out a few more years and people would have bought it.
Maybe if one is in the market for a ICE sports sedan. Think the upcoming hybrid NX 350h/450h would probably fit the bill for being the perfect daily driver as you get fuel economy, compactness, ride height, interior space and all rolled into one
@@barbecuetechtips6024 I think it's closer to the competition than it ever was. And the old, uncompetitve one managed to be Lexus's second-best-selling vehicle.
The old and new NX are still ugly as hell! Just look at the Lincoln corsair, Genesis gv70, and Volvo Xc60! That's a real crossover! Plastic fender surrounds are not luxury!
Really good review Kirk. Camera angles, clarity.. on point. I think this is your best video yet! The opening and closing shots on the waterway are sublime!
@@barbecuetechtips6024 It sounds the same via CarPlay and is 1000x times more convenient. That’s like saying a horse drawn carriage is better than a pickup lmao
I doubt it. They have been aware of this for a while. If you like the car I don't think this should stop you from getting one, just my two cents. I mean, I knew about it and I bought one. RIP me.
@@northernlights8602 did you ever end up swapping yours out? If so, did you go with RCF bushings and have you noticed a difference in tire wear? Will be taking delivery of mine soon, wanna get ahead of the curve if I can, thanks!
Just wish the interior space is bigger. Sat in a IS300 over the weekend, was surprised that it feels smaller than my wrx. The windshield view pretty much is half of what wrx feels like. A bit disappointed.
It would definitely help if it were more roomy on the inside. They gotta update the interior before id get another one. They need to get rid of the drivers side hump as well
@@alh06 I had a 2018 1.5l turbo Accord, the Acura uses the same turbo, my accord was fine for around 84k miles before someone totaled it. Most of the issues with the turbo seem to affect the early CRVs as far as I know.
@@-SP. The recent Acuras, according to most wide surveys have been pretty unreliable. My personal experience has been the same, had a neighbor who had one recent RDX have a turbo issue before 30k miles, and electronics issue on their '18 MDX
Lexus is killing themselves and us! This car is great aside from the fact that it needs more power! I really hope in the next year or two they drop in some new powertrain, 30-50 more hp for the same price and this thing would sell like crazy
People buy Lexus because of the looks and reliability. You can’t have get this kinda reliability with the crazy twin turbo madness the Germans are putting out. Using a tried and true formula has always been the Japanese way to go and it always, always works. Buyers don’t care that it’s not a completely new engine.
only if they update the interior to be like the new upcoming 2022 NX, it needs a wireless charging pad near the center console, currently the interior is the same as the 2014 lexus is its too outdated, still looks good but I need something new and more luxurious, the competition and price is scary
Another great review, it's nice to see you hone the craft more and more. Lexus needs to come on already with the pricing, so I can decide if they're serious about sales. My sales rep said he heard September 2021 will be the pricing announcement, hopefully it'll be sooner! In either case, I'm beyond jazzed to see so many 2021s on the streets. You have to stay youthful and fresh to stay competitive and in Lexus fashion, they're making serious changes now. Having said that, after 2025, expect them to go back to 10 years of minor tweaks. ;-P
Lexus is reliable, no doubt. But they better do something before other manufacturers leave them in the dust. I am a Toyota/Lexus guy myself, but all the Cadillac cars are gorgeous.
Seems on par with the engines offered by German 2.0Ts and the base TLX, which is what this IS should be compared to. The one Kirk’s driving in the vid is optioned up to $50k+ but without the handling package they’re closer price-wise to the entry level 3 series/A4/TLX class vehicles. Just depends on if you’d prefer NA vs a turbo
It might just be a refresh but , you get a cooler looking car ,a easier to use infotainment and you still have a NA engine wich in a few years you will miss it ,it just a toyota way to do things just slowly improving the product . BTW chrome is alright IMO
Kirk knows I love Lexus lol I traded in my 2020 is350 f sport ultra white for a 2021 is350 ultra white. The ride is improved which was already great also I love the apple carplay. My friends say the back looks like a transformer but I kind of like it 🙂
Definitely a very nice car! Personally... I’ll choose a TLX Type S. Others choose this or g70 or q50... everyone has different taste but it’s a good time for luxury sport sedans for sure! Love your videos like always kirk 💯 I’m still waiting for my type s delivery tho 😂
I feel you on the chrome trim. My Elantra Sport also has chrome trim too that the base ones don't. I kind of agree, they went overboard with the red on the dash. OTOH, nice legs.
It's great except, little more effort should have been put in the interior like how they did for the exterior..... Also they should have added the 3.5tt v6 as an option even if it made just under 400bhp , while still keeping the NA 3.5
Kirk, I do like the chrome and piano black rear. I learned my blinkers, turn it light and it blinks 3 times, turn it hard and stays on. My RC350 F SPORT has 2 less doors and its super enjoyable GT car. I made sure to turn off the artificial engine noise generator. If you want a sports car, look elsewhere.
The IS350 competes with the A4, 330i and C300, at least here in Canada. The IS350's starting MSRP is $53k CAD, while the others are S4 ($60k), M340i ($66k), C43 Avantegarde ($72k!!). The IS500 should be the model positioned against the S4, M340i, C43 and Genesis G70. As for the Genesis G70 3.3T, its MSRP is $54k, which puts it squarely in the IS350's court, but the performance from the 3.3T is in the upper range alongside the S4/M340i/C43. Nevertheless, I'm hearing that the V6 is going to be replaced by a 2.4T, the same one in the upcoming NX350, and it's possible it could be turned up to over 300hp with similar or more torque, which will improve the 0 - 60 times for sure. But it would be a shame to lose that V6 throttle response and sound.
Just got a 2023 is350- no performance package and no upgraded sound system. The sound system is a MUST- this 10 speaker premium is lacking for a 50k car. Aside from that it handles like a cloud- can't imagine what it would be like with that extra sport + mode. Anyhow- this car is a SPORTY luxury sedan. It is no longer a sport sedan like the 2 IS. It is not very fast. Even if it was tuned with 20 more horsepower it would make a difference. But 311 HP on a car that is almost 2 tons, well- its a bit lack luster. The F sport comes standard with a cold air intake so that's off the table and the ECU has not been cracked yet for a tune. I would have gone with the IS500 if it wasn't for the 20K mark up my California dealers are charging. Overall the car has super and I mean SUPER aggressive styling and is so comfortable to drive. But if you are not concerned with long term ownership and reliability, and want something that throws you back in your seat- this car is not for you. I don't see the complaints with the infotainment or technology aspect of the car- but I am coming from a 2IS. Personally I think this car is a great choice if speed is not your main priority. It is a quick head turner and a DREAM to drive on Cali roads. And if you have been to California that says something. TLDR- GET THE UPGRADED SOUND SYSTEM AND THE PREFORMANCE PACKAGE- IF SPEEFD IS YOUR NEED GET THE IS500 AND SPEND THE 20K ON MARKUP. Much love Lexus Family
Needs blacked out trim, more carbon fiber, less red, analog clock needs to go, flat bottom steering wheel and an update on the engine and transmission because it has been the same forever. It’s reliable yet underwhelming for the price you pay. At this point you might as well get a used 07 is350 and save 30k because it’s nearly the same thing, just update the infotainment and it’s the perfect daily driver for cheap
Lexus missed it with the IS. Lexus outsells Infiniti and Acura yet they offer 3 liter turbos in their entry level cars. I assume they offer the 3.5 V6 because the V8 is going to be the exciting sports car to drive. Another thing that bothers me is that they can but a V8 in the IS but not in the LS. Lexus used to make sporty and desirable cars. I’d like to see Lexus, Infiniti and Acura back to they’re original form when they gave German brands a run for their money.
At least Acura is moving in the right direction with the new designs and the Type S models. Infiniti is finally learning and ditching the CVT, let’s see what next year brings.
@@drivescene6747 Infiniti needs to learn and redo their stupid infotainment system and interiors. Their exterior stylings are great especially the new QX55 but the interiors are just so bad
This front end is so on point. The flow is absolutely amazing. Can you imagine this vehicle without the spindle grille? It would look really strange, and most definitely would lose its identity.
Eh IMO it’s better than the terrible dual screen setup lol, at least with the touch screen now. But yes, prior to ‘21 with just the Lexus touchpad thing was as horrible as Infiniti for sure
Was definitely going to get it on release date, but I wasn't a fan of the outdated interior. So I went with a 2021 Corolla Hatchback instead. The exterior isn't as nice as the IS, but the interior is way more up to date. This new IS is still the best looking sedan out right now; just wish it wasn't so lazily done.
I hope this is a troll comment. The pricing gap and difference in quality between these two cars is tremendous, and I can't imagine anyone seriously cross-shopping them. The IS was not for you if you ended up in a Corolla. Nothing wrong with that... the new Corolla is a great car for the money.
IS350 is on the same price point as the TLX type S. yeah you would be getting more bang for your buck in the TLX. Dont know why Lexus pricing themselves out in this one.
Nice, I always LOVED the Is. When i went to their Track Event and drove this car. It drove Nice but kinda Cramped to me. It doesn't pull like my Q50s. But it's not too far Off. The Is just Needs a New Platform and get away from the 3 series size. And be more on the Q50 size. I think Lexus should have dropped that TTv6 in it. But that might have cancelled the v8. My Q50s may be Old Skool but it's still a Sleeper. Stay Safe, Be Safe!!!!
@@drivescene6747 The Q50 does not handle nearly as well. The one I drove felt very loose and soft in comparison. Steering in particular was not as tight.
In my opinion, it is the perfect daily. Smooth V6. My cousin is going to university to become a nurse and she loves her IS. I also love maintaining her car when she has questions because I never have to do anything big to it! Lol.
Those rims kind of remind me of the corolla apex. But I also find it odd that a 40K Camry has the same 300hp v6, just as fast, and has more tech than the IS Also I’d suspect the is500 will be pricier than the type S
I bought a new ES350 F Sport last October. Its been a great car BUT, the Michelins need to be replaced at 20,000 miles! They are super quite, smooth and provide great grip but, come on, this is only 300hp and its all interstate driving. I'm going to order Continental EXTREMECONTACT DWS 06 PLUS - SIZE: 235/40ZR19 and see how it goes. Otherwise a really great daily driver.
@@faizeladam1404 The Continentals have been great so far. Lots of rain this week in Missouri and interstate speeds in heavy rain were no issue. Great traction on acceleration, no hydro and good on breaks. I like the tire.
Japanese automakers need to understand that those of us who purchased this vehicle are not the same client base who purchase the ES or LS. I love this vehicle and would immediately trade it in for one with pano sunroof, ambient lighting, F Sport stamping on the seats, power mirrors, HUD and the new tech/infotainment and a bit more luxury. This should have been the launch edition of the IS 500 or even the IS 350 for those who don’t desire the extra hp. Lastly, just make the Mark Levinson standard on these going forward…Geezus!!! Awesome review as always.
@@naveenthemachine ... if you lease the car, which most people in this segment do, you'll have no problems. Even with a 5yr lease, you'll be okie dokie, unless you completely scoff on the maintenance. But, even then, I've seen more Toyota/Lexus products killed in under 100k miles than any other brand. Because "they last forever" and they never/rarely brought them in for basic maintenance. But, if you have the money to comfortably afford an RS6/E63S Wagon, long term reliability isn't much of a concern.
I want black emblems for my 2020 RX. Ok, they don't make OEM I get it. But no black IS350 emblem on this F Sport? C'mon man. It's all in the details. That's why we buy Lexus.
Yes you're absolutely 110% correct. I just took Delivery of 2021 IS 350 F Sport. Everything is exceptional but for the ageing 3.5 L V 6. Why don't they just get with the Technology and put in a Turbo charge. This is what they're lagging behind their competitors. Lexus please get rid of your 3.5 L and donk in a turbocharged.
Great review! My main complain: I’m considering one of these, but our garage is very tight and may need to park on the street. I’ve written to Lexus about this issue; that their mirrors stick out much further than other vehicles. The IS needs power folding mirrors. It sucks that the RC and IS are the only two vehicles in the lineup not to offer it. My mirror was side swiped and I’ve been so paranoid about it. I get pushing them in manually, but for a $48k car, they better be pushing themselves.
It's a shame that the interior is such a let down compared to the exterior. And, I understand there is a weird hump in the transmission tunnel right by the driver's right leg that interferes when you have your foot on the accelerator pedal. Too bad the GS is gone. I expected more from Lexus. I thought this could be an alternative to a BMW 330i/430i, but I don't think so.
despite the looks.... this whole car just screams an expensive parts bin to me. Everything except the newly added safety features are yesteryear's tech and components. Will be reliable as a tank yes, but if I'm putting that much money for a car I would've want the latest in the industry as well. hopefully within 2023-2024 they will bring out an all new IS. they can keep the exterior, and bring over the interior from NX with minor changes
I got a 2014 is350. I was excited for the 2021......then it came out and just a refresh. So disappointed. Im now eyeing the 2022 g70. Prices are about the same but the g70 gives you more features.
As much as I love Lexus and Toyota, this car is pretty average compared to the 3 series. I would pick this over a 330i but the m340i just blows the competition away.
It’s a shame you can no longer option the dark red Rioja interior from the previous 2017+ update that has a classy combination of black and dark red in the F Sport models. This new lighter Circuit Red (I think?) option has so much red plastic paneling that it looks almost like a chintzy plastic ricer. Everything else is amazing however.
Nice camera placement, good idea with the Picture in Picture setup. The LF logo is somewhat unnecessary I think. Before driving, an exterior, interior overview, driving position, 2nd row space, boot, engine options part would be good to have in your reviews and I think you should develop a certain chain of "car review aspects", and go through each link in each review in the same order. Like ride Quality, acceleratiom, fuel economy, dynamics, handling, brakes, cabin noise, overall impression and subjective and objective rating. it's great that you talk eventually about all of these, but order would make it better, so you don't talk about the brakes when you accidentally have to break during recording, but you would have a method and way of carrying out the product review or overview. I like the channel very much, love to see it grow and develop, so fingers crossed anyhow! :) P.s. The new minimalistic LF logo without the gauge indicators is much better, more professional, you should consider using it exclusively instead of the original one.
Every time I saw an IS video on my feed for the last couple months, I get really excited thinking it's the IS500, followed by immediate and crushing disappointment. xD .... :(
I just bought a 3is with rioja red and let me tell you, it’s just enough red. It’s not too bright and it’s not everywhere. Definitely too much red going on
