2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury

The world of luxury sport sedans is fiercely competitive, with manufacturers constantly pushing the boundaries of performance, design, and technology. Amidst this dynamic landscape, the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury carves out its own distinct niche. Are you navigating the myriad of choices, seeking a vehicle that blends exhilarating performance with undeniable sophistication and Lexus's renowned reliability? Look no further. This comprehensive guide will take you on a deep dive into what makes the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury a compelling option for discerning drivers.

Unleashing Performance: The Heart of the IS 350 F Sport Luxury

At the core of the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury lies a powertrain designed to deliver a captivating driving experience.

Potent V6 Engine

Under the hood, you'll find a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, a choice that stands out in an era dominated by turbocharged four-cylinders. This robust engine generates a healthy 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, ensuring responsive acceleration and a satisfying power delivery. What does that mean for your daily drive? It means ample power for highway merging and confident overtakes, accompanied by a pleasing exhaust note.

Precision Transmission & Drive Modes

The power is managed by an eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models, offering crisp and engaging shifts, often complemented by paddle shifters for manual control. All-wheel-drive (AWD) variants feature a six-speed automatic transmission.

The IS 350 F Sport Luxury also boasts a Drive Mode Select system, allowing you to tailor the car's dynamics to your mood or driving conditions. You can choose from:

• Normal: For balanced everyday driving.
• Sport S & Sport S+: Sharpen throttle response, firm up the steering, and adjust the F Sport-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension (if equipped) for a more exhilarating ride.
• ECO: Optimizes fuel efficiency.
• Custom: Allows you to personalize various settings.

With a 0-60 mph time typically ranging from 5.6 to 6.2 seconds, the IS 350 F Sport Luxury delivers a spirited performance, feeling agile and capable on the road.

A Statement in Style: Design & Aesthetics

The 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury isn't just about what's under the hood; it's also a head-turner on the road.

Aggressive Exterior Presence

Lexus has truly nailed the aggressive yet refined aesthetic with the IS F Sport. Its distinctive spindle grille immediately commands attention, flanked by sharp LED headlights. The F Sport package adds unique styling elements, including:

• More aggressive front and rear bumpers.
• A unique grille surround.
• A subtle rear spoiler.
• Larger 19-inch alloy wheels, with new designs introduced for 2023.

For those seeking even more exclusivity, Lexus offered special appearance packages for 2023, such as the Incognito exterior paint paired with an Obsidian-colored hood, making an already striking car even more unique. The car's muscular lines and athletic profile give it a "looks fast standing still" quality.

Refined and Sporty Interior

Step inside the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury, and you're greeted by a cockpit that seamlessly blends sportiness with premium comfort. The F Sport models feature:

• Bolstered heated and ventilated front sport seats, providing excellent support during spirited driving while ensuring comfort on longer journeys.
• A leather-trimmed steering wheel, often with red stitching, that feels substantial in your hands.
• Unique interior trim with a black geometric design.
• Available Circuit Red NuLuxe synthetic leather upholstery that adds a vibrant, youthful, and sporty ambiance to the cabin.

While some elements of the interior design have been around for a while, the overall quality of materials and the tactile feel of the buttons are consistently praised, contributing to a truly luxurious experience.

Technology & Comfort: Inside the Cabin

Modern luxury vehicles are defined by their integrated technology and thoughtful comfort features, and the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury delivers on both fronts.

Intuitive Infotainment

The centerpiece of the dashboard is an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional larger 10.3-inch display available, often bundled with in-dash navigation. Both systems support essential smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, allowing seamless access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. While a console-mounted touchpad controller is also present, the addition of touchscreen functionality significantly enhances usability.

For audiophiles, the available 17-speaker, 1800-watt Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system offers an immersive audio experience, transforming your commute into a private concert.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Lexus ensures that every journey in the IS 350 F Sport Luxury is as comfortable and convenient as possible with a host of standard and available features:

• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Push-button engine start
• Power front seats
• Available power tilt and slide moonroof
• Heated mirrors
• Memory package for driver's seat, mirrors, and steering wheel (optional).
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Advanced Safety Technologies

Safety is paramount, and the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury comes equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 as standard. This suite of driver-assistance features includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection.
• Lane Tracing Assist.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist.
• All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
• Intelligent High Beams.
• Road Sign Assist.

While it utilizes Lexus's previous generation safety system, it still provides a comprehensive array of features designed to enhance your awareness and help prevent accidents.

The Driving Experience: Sporty Yet Refined

So, how does the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury feel on the open road? It offers a compelling balance that sets it apart. While some rivals might prioritize outright track performance, the IS 350 F Sport excels as a comfortable cruiser that can still deliver a fun and engaging drive.

The V6 engine is remarkably smooth, building power linearly from idle to redline. The F Sport-tuned suspension, especially with the optional Adaptive Variable Suspension, provides a compliant ride in comfort mode and stiffens up nicely in sportier settings, allowing the car to feel planted and willing to dive into corners. Steering is precise, and the brakes offer confident stopping power.

Fuel economy for the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury is rated around 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for RWD models, and 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for AWD models.

Is the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury Right for You?

The 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury appeals to a specific type of buyer. If you value a car that offers:

• Lexus's legendary reliability and build quality.
• Distinctive and aggressive styling that stands out from the crowd.
• A naturally aspirated V6 engine with smooth, linear power delivery.
• A balanced driving experience that is both sporty and comfortable for daily commuting and longer trips.
• A luxurious and well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seats.

Then the IS 350 F Sport Luxury could be your ideal match. It's a car that feels solid and premium, offering a compelling blend of luxury and sport.

However, it's worth noting a few considerations:

• The rear seats can be a bit snug compared to some competitors.
• While updated with a touchscreen, some aspects of the infotainment system and overall cabin tech might feel less cutting-edge than newer rivals.
• Its fuel economy, while respectable for a V6, may be lower than some turbocharged four-cylinder alternatives.

The starting MSRP for the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Design typically begins around $44,310, with the F Sport trim starting closer to $45,560, and prices increasing with options and AWD.

In essence, the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury is for those who desire a luxury sport sedan that prioritizes a refined and engaging driving experience, distinctive aesthetics, and the peace of mind that comes with Lexus ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What engine does the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury have?

The 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury is powered by a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

Q2: Is the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury available with all-wheel drive (AWD)?

Yes, the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury is available with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. RWD models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models feature a 6-speed automatic.

Q3: What are the key interior features of the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury?

Key interior features include bolstered heated and ventilated F Sport front seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, unique F Sport interior trim, and an 8.0-inch (standard) or 10.3-inch (optional) touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An available Mark Levinson 17-speaker premium sound system is also a highlight.

Q4: What is the estimated 0-60 mph time for the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury?

The 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury typically accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.6 to 6.2 seconds, depending on the drivetrain (RWD vs. AWD) and specific testing conditions.

Ready to explore the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport Luxury further? Share your thoughts in the comments below or consider reading our related article on "Choosing the Right Luxury Sedan for Your Lifestyle" to see how the IS 350 F Sport stacks up against its competitors!