2020 Lexus IS 350

What Is the 2020 Lexus IS?

The Lexus IS is a compact luxury sports sedan that seats up to five people. The rear-wheel-drive IS 300 features a 241-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the all-wheel-drive IS 300 uses a 260-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. 

Stepping up the IS powertrain ladder, both rear- and all-wheel-drive versions of the IS 350 come with a 311-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. An eight-speed automatic goes in IS models with rear-wheel drive, while a six-speed automatic goes in all-wheel-drive sedans. Competitors include the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3 Series. A new IS is scheduled to debut as a 2021 model. 

What’s New on the 2020 Lexus IS?

A new Black Line Special Edition is available for F Sport versions of the IS. Limited to 900 units, the cosmetic package features black-chrome wheels, a black grille and side mirror covers, plus a black interior with blue and gray accents. 

What Features in the 2020 Lexus IS Are Most Important?

Standard features include a 7-inch multimedia screen, a power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, two USB ports, simulated leather seating surfaces and satellite radio. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic high-beam headlights and adaptive cruise control. 

Available features include a blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert, a power rear sunshade, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, built-in navigation with a 10.3-inch screen, and a Mark Levinson audio system. 

Should I Buy the 2020 Lexus IS?

The IS is a comfortable compact luxury car with good backseat space. It’s too bad its driving experience lacks the fun-to-drive feeling offered by the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Genesis G70 and others. There are also some cheap-looking trim pieces in the cabin, and the Remote Touch interface remains extremely frustrating.