The 2011 Lexus IS350 proves that there really is a Lexus IS model that fits any taste, and this one would be a little bit less than extra-spicy. With the extreme 306 horsepower from the 3.5-liter V-6, this vehicle delivers sufficient power for most shoppers looking for a good sport sedan.
The stylish exterior and luxurious cabin of the IS350 sedan pleases drivers of all sorts. This 2011 model introduces the F Sport package as an option and livens the handling of the vehicle as well as enhances it with a small face-lift. For people who live in an area of harsh climates, the introduction of the all-wheel-drive option seems especially pleasing. No matter what type of driver you are or the location in which you live, the 2011 Lexus IS350 could be just the car you want.
Some minor flaws include a limited amount of rear-seat space compared to similar sedans and the sometimes slow automatic transmission. Overall, the IS350 seems like one of the best in the Lexus lineup for practicality and functionality, adding just enough excitement to make the purchase worthwhile.
The Range
Body Styles: sport sedan
Engines: 3.5-liter V-6
Transmissions: six-speed automatic
Models: Lexus IS350
What's New
For 2011, newly gaining updated styling, the Lexus IS350 also adds the option of all-wheel drive to the list of features. Two other optional features drop from the list: adaptive cruise control and adaptive xenon front headlights.
Exterior
The 2011 Lexus IS 350 offers many luxurious features outside. All-wheel drive comes as an option with the 2011 model, in addition to rear drive. Standard exterior features include a sunroof, LED running lights, xenon headlamps, headlight washers, 17-inch wheels, heated mirrors, and keyless entry/ignition.
The Luxury package can be added to the rear-drive models, adding 18-inch wheels, automatic wipers, a rear power sunshade, and outside mirrors with auto-dimming functionality. Many sporty exterior additions come with the F Sport package. It adds F Sport dark-finish 18-inch wheels, rear and front spoilers, and grille inserts.
Interior
The sporty interior of the 2011 Lexus 350 stands out among the best in the segment. It features top-notch metallic or wood accents and supple leathers throughout the cabin. It has a very elegant feel with intuitive controls and an optional navigation system with a touchscreen. The trunk space remains average for this class and can hold approximately 13 cubic feet of items such as sports equipment or luggage.
Several interior features come standard with the IS350, such as power front seats, Bluetooth and audio connectivity, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack, a six-CD changer with a 13-speaker stereo, and automatic dual-zone climate control. Heated front seats come with the 350 all-wheel drive model. Optional packages include a navigation system, wood trim, leather bolsters, and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker surround-sound stereo system.
Performance & Handling
One of the 2011 Lexus IS350’s most noteworthy features is the smooth and very responsive V-6 engine. It has just enough thrust, and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly. The 306 hp with 277 lb-ft of torque delivers more than enough power for most driving enthusiasts. For 2011, Lexus offers a choice between all-wheel drive and rear drive, but only the six-speed automatic transmission. The rear-drive model accelerates swiftly to 60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds, and the all-wheel-drive versions might take about a couple tenths more.
Safety
Standard safety equipment includes brake assist, stability control, traction control, side front-seat airbags, anti-lock disc brakes, side curtain airbags, and a telematics service called Safety Connect. The service has a stolen-vehicle locator, an emergency assistance button, and automatic collision notification.
Braking tests reveal that it takes just a short 114 feet to come to a full stop from 60 mph. In government crash tests, the IS350 achieves four stars in frontal impact safety for both the passenger and driver. The driver side-impact testing earns five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2011 Lexus IS350 a rating of ?good?—a perfect score—in both side-impact and frontal-impact crash tests.
EPA Fuel Economy
Lexus IS350 rear drive: 20/27 mpg city/highway
Lexus IS350 all-wheel drive: 18/25 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Comfortable ride
- Smooth and powerful V-6
- Top-notch interior quality
You Won't Like
- Mediocre headroom
- Small back seat
Sum Up
Fuel efficient luxury sedan that won’t disappoint.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Infiniti G37
- Audi A4
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- BMW 3 Series
- Cadillac CTS