The redone 2021 Lexus IS 300 and IS 350 get a round of applause simply for the fact that a market remains for honest-to-goodness sports sedans. With the sales rush to all things SUV, this once red-hot segment has faded into the background. That’s not to suggest the IS isn’t without rivals, however — there are plenty, and they include worthy opponents like the Acura TLX, BMW 3 Series, Genesis G70 and Infiniti Q50.
Related: 2021 Lexus IS 350 Review: Refocused but Not Rejuvenated
Fresh from a makeover, the latest Lexus IS has a slinkier exterior to match long overdue interior improvements. Spoiler alert: There’s no Remote Touch controller joystick that made the infotainment system in the previous IS an exercise in hair-pulling frustration. However, Lexus has opted for refinement versus total reinvention when it comes to the 2021 IS lineup overall.
Do the changes go far enough? Does the IS prove a match for the competition in base format, or is the added firepower in the IS 350 worth the higher price tag? Be sure to follow the above link for our Aaron Bragman’s full review of the 2021 Lexus IS. If you’d like a short recap — and don’t mind more spoilers — then keep reading.
Things We Like
1. Head-Turning Exterior