Lexus IS 300 F Sport (2018) Review: Specs & Performance

by Alex Braham 56 views

Let's dive into the Lexus IS 300 F Sport (2018), a car that blends luxury with a sporty edge. This review will cover everything you need to know, from its performance and specs to its overall driving experience. If you're looking for a sedan that offers both comfort and a bit of thrill, the IS 300 F Sport might just be the ticket.

Overview of the Lexus IS 300 F Sport (2018)

The 2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a compelling option in the compact luxury sedan segment. Lexus has built a solid reputation for reliability and luxury, and the F Sport trim adds a dash of athleticism to the mix. It’s designed to appeal to drivers who want a car that’s both enjoyable to drive and comfortable for daily use. The IS 300 F Sport stands out with its aggressive styling, enhanced performance features, and a well-appointed interior. Competing against the likes of the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the IS 300 F Sport holds its own by offering a unique blend of luxury, sportiness, and Lexus’s renowned reliability. This model year includes several upgrades and refinements over previous years, making it a noteworthy contender in its class. What makes the F Sport truly special is its attention to detail. From the bolstered sport seats to the meticulously crafted interior trim, every aspect of the car is designed to enhance the driving experience. The F Sport package isn't just about aesthetics; it also includes performance upgrades like a sport-tuned suspension and enhanced braking system, providing a more engaging and dynamic ride. The exterior styling is also more aggressive, with a distinctive mesh grille, unique alloy wheels, and aerodynamic enhancements that set it apart from the standard IS 300. Lexus has also focused on improving the technology offerings in the 2018 model, with an updated infotainment system and advanced safety features, ensuring that the IS 300 F Sport is not only fun to drive but also safe and convenient for daily use. The car's build quality is exceptional, reflecting Lexus's commitment to excellence, and the overall ownership experience is enhanced by the brand's reputation for outstanding customer service. All these factors combine to make the 2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport a standout choice for anyone seeking a luxury sport sedan.

Key Features and Specifications

When it comes to the Lexus IS 300 F Sport (2018), the key features and specifications are what set it apart. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 241 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. For those who crave more power, there's also an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine available, delivering approximately 260 horsepower in the rear-wheel-drive configuration and 311 horsepower in the all-wheel-drive version. The F Sport trim includes a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances handling and reduces body roll, making it more fun to drive on twisty roads. The exterior boasts an aggressive design with a unique mesh grille, rear spoiler, and distinctive F Sport badging. Inside, you'll find sport seats with enhanced bolsters to keep you firmly in place during spirited driving. The interior also features aluminum pedals and trim, adding to the sporty ambiance. Technology-wise, the IS 300 F Sport comes standard with a 10.3-inch infotainment display, navigation, and a premium audio system. Safety features include pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. Other notable features include LED headlights, a moonroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The IS 300 F Sport also offers various drive modes, allowing you to customize the car's performance to suit your preferences. The available all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in adverse weather conditions. The fuel economy is respectable for its class, with the four-cylinder model achieving around 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Overall, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport offers a compelling package of performance, luxury, and technology, making it a strong contender in the compact luxury sedan market.

Performance and Handling

The performance and handling of the 2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport are designed to deliver an engaging driving experience. The F Sport trim enhances the car's agility and responsiveness, making it a joy to drive on both city streets and winding roads. The sport-tuned suspension provides a firmer ride compared to the base model, reducing body roll and improving cornering stability. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. The available 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers brisk acceleration, allowing the IS 300 F Sport to reach 60 mph in around 5.6 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly, contributing to the car's overall performance. The F Sport also includes performance-inspired features such as aluminum pedals and paddle shifters, allowing you to take control of gear changes. The brakes are strong and provide confident stopping power. The drive mode select system allows you to choose from different settings, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, which adjust the car's throttle response, steering feel, and suspension settings. In Sport+ mode, the car becomes even more responsive and engaging, making it ideal for spirited driving. The IS 300 F Sport also benefits from its well-balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive configuration, which contribute to its sporty handling characteristics. Overall, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport offers a compelling blend of performance and handling, making it a fun and rewarding car to drive.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the 2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport, you'll find a cabin that prioritizes both comfort and technology. The sport seats are well-bolstered, providing excellent support during spirited driving, and are also comfortable enough for long journeys. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel. The 10.3-inch infotainment display is easy to read and navigate, and it includes features such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. The premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, enhancing the overall driving experience. The dual-zone automatic climate control ensures that both the driver and passenger can maintain their preferred temperature. The IS 300 F Sport also includes a range of advanced safety features, such as pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control, providing added peace of mind. The interior design is modern and stylish, with aluminum trim and a sporty steering wheel. The rear seats offer adequate legroom and headroom for passengers, making it suitable for families. The trunk provides a decent amount of cargo space for luggage or groceries. Overall, the interior of the Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a comfortable and well-equipped space that enhances the driving experience.

Pros and Cons

When considering the 2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Pros:

  • Sporty Handling: The F Sport trim delivers enhanced handling and a more engaging driving experience.
  • Stylish Design: The exterior boasts an aggressive and eye-catching design.
  • Comfortable Interior: The cabin is well-appointed with high-quality materials and comfortable seats.
  • Advanced Technology: The infotainment system and safety features are modern and user-friendly.
  • Reliability: Lexus is known for its excellent reliability.

Cons:

  • Engine Performance: The base four-cylinder engine may feel underpowered for some drivers.
  • Infotainment System: Some users may find the infotainment system interface less intuitive than competitors.
  • Rear Seat Space: Rear seat legroom can be tight for taller passengers.
  • Ride Quality: The sport-tuned suspension may result in a firmer ride compared to the base model.

Overall Verdict

In conclusion, the 2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a compelling choice for those seeking a compact luxury sedan that offers a blend of sportiness, comfort, and reliability. While it may have a few drawbacks, such as limited rear seat space and a less intuitive infotainment system, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. The F Sport trim delivers enhanced handling and a more engaging driving experience, making it a joy to drive. The stylish design and well-appointed interior add to its appeal. Overall, the Lexus IS 300 F Sport is a strong contender in its class and is worth considering if you're in the market for a luxury sport sedan.