The Engine's Power is Apparent from the Moment of Ignition

The Lexus IS350 F SPORT is a model that "inherits the driving concept centered on the LFA (a supercar to be announced soon)" (Lexus). It combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 318ps with a 6-speed automatic transmission, driving the rear wheels.

The mechanical layout is the same as the existing Version L and Version I. However, it features a modified suspension system and sporty settings for the steering. Externally, it is equipped with exclusive lip spoilers and exclusive alloy wheels, giving it a slightly sportier appearance than the base IS350. The interior, with its leather-wrapped steering wheel stitched with thick thread, hints at its special nature.

The appeal of the IS350 F SPORT becomes clear the moment you start driving. It offers a level of enjoyment that would make any car enthusiast grin. The precise handling and the ability to fully utilize the engine's power are the hallmarks of the IS350 F SPORT. Springs with approximately 30% higher rates than the standard model, special dampers, and high-stiffness bushings provide solid support for the chassis. As the development team stated, "the steering gear ratio has been optimized to match the reinforced suspension," the handling is seamlessly integrated with the car's movements.

Cornering Like a European Car, Swiftly Navigating Through

What was particularly impressive was that the cornering felt even more enjoyable than in the special IS F, which is equipped with a 5-liter V8 producing 423ps. As the suspension development team mentioned, "considerable tuning was done on how the nose dips when the steering is turned," the ride is not simply stiff. The ability to navigate corners at high speeds with a slight, European-style body roll is a superb sensation rarely found elsewhere.

Another unsung hero supporting the IS350 F SPORT's performance is its exclusively developed ENKEI lightweight alloy wheels. They boast high rigidity, known in technical terms as out-of-plane torsional stiffness. The wheel's resistance to twisting is crucial during cornering, as it improves the rear wheels' responsiveness and enhances the sense of unity when turning through curves.

Although it uses a torque converter automatic transmission, it downshifts instantly with just a slight press of the accelerator pedal. With its peak output of 318ps at 6400rpm and maximum torque of 380Nm at 4800rpm, the engine feels lively and operates within its power band when revved high. While dual-clutch transmissions are prevalent, the smooth shifts and the many advantages of a well-executed torque converter automatic are evident here.

Rival: VW Golf R

Even when compared to the "IS F" (7.9 million yen), the most sporty model at the top of the IS series, the IS350 F SPORT's appeal does not diminish. Its supple and agile handling during cornering, as mentioned earlier, and the sporty sensation of utilizing the engine's high rev range are clearly more enjoyable in the IS350 F SPORT. While the spring rates of the suspension system are about 60% of those in the IS F, there is no sense of compromise. Interestingly, the ride comfort during cruising felt more pleasant in the IS F.

The "on-the-rails" cornering feel immediately brings to mind the Golf R, a special edition of the Golf, as a rival to the IS350 F SPORT. In terms of price, the IS350 F SPORT at 5.38 million yen directly competes with the Golf R at 5.05 million yen. It's difficult to say which would win without a direct comparison under identical conditions, but the Golf R, with its racing-inspired interior design that evokes the spirit of a racing car, has an edge in presentation.

What's Missing in the IS350 F SPORT...?

What the IS350 F SPORT lacks, and the Golf R possesses, is the power of presentation that clearly defines the car's character through its design. Even the seats (which are very important) in the Golf have a design reminiscent of thin racing seats. For a Golf R owner, settling into these seats would be a great pleasure. In contrast, the IS350 F SPORT features thick, plush cushions, like a luxury sedan. This is a shame. The developers' intent for this car becomes blurred.

Throughout my time driving the IS350 F SPORT, the Audi RS5 was also constantly on my mind as a comparison. Both can be driven normally, but when the mood strikes, they can captivate with their exhilaratingly sporty handling. Their ability to corner at extreme speeds is on par, but while the Audi RS5 possesses a certain brand prestige and beautiful design, its price of 12.04 million yen is astronomical. In comparison, the IS350 F SPORT is quite a bargain. To reiterate, if it had a more mature and sophisticated feel, it would be unbeatable.

LEXUS IS350 F Sport | LEXUS IS350 F Sport
Body | Length 4,585 x Width 1,795 x Height 1,430mm
Wheelbase | 2,730mm
Engine | 3.5L V6 DOHC
Max Output | 234kW (318ps) / 6,400rpm
Max Torque | 380Nm (38.7kgm) / 4,800rpm
Transmission | 6-speed Super ECT
Drivetrain | RWD
10-15 Mode Fuel Economy | 10.0km/ℓ
Price | 5.38 million yen