The last part of the year ushers in cooler temperatures, pumpkins, holidays, and news from car manufacturers regarding new features, changes, or updated vehicle lines. In September, Lexus announced that it would build upon the success of the IS 500 F Sport Performance by offering new standard features and luxury options. Today, we’ll cover the engine specs, interior features, safety features, and pricing for a fully loaded 2023 Lexus IS 500 F Sport.

2023 Lexus IS performance specs and features

When you look under the hood of the Lexus IS, you immediately see the 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque to this sporty, aesthetically pleasing vehicle. Those who purchase the Lexus IS can choose between the RWD and AWD versions. With an RWD vehicle, the torque is sent to the rear wheels, which push the car forward or around corners. With an AWD vehicle, power is sent to all four wheels, which gives it a better grip on the road. If you need to get up to highway speeds quickly, the IS F Sport RWD can go from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, while the AWD can do it in 5.7 seconds.

The car also sports muscular fenders that accommodate the 19-inch wheels, sleek and sharp lines, and a compact body that makes it stand out from the rest of the cars. The IS 350 F Sport also has a Handling Package, offering Torsen Limited Slip Rear Differential on the models with RWD and an Adaptive Variable Suspension.

Interior features of the IS

Drivers will have an easy and fun time finding the right seating position, as the Lexus IS interior features include a 10-way power driver seat. In contrast, the front passenger seat has an eight-way power adjustable seat. The cabin also has a dual-zone automatic climate control system that you control through touch, and there’s an available power moonroof. The IS also features a standard 8-inch touchscreen, but owners can upgrade to a 10.3-inch touchscreen with the Mark Levinson Premium Audio Package.

How safe is the Lexus IS?

The fully loaded IS luxury sedan comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Pedestrian and Bicyclist Detection, which are all part of the Pre-Collision System. Lexus also enhanced the camera’s lens and added millimeter wave radar elements to improve the response range. 

The All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control helps drivers overtake slower vehicles by increasing acceleration once they engage the turn signal. The IIHS and NHTSA do not currently have crash test results for the 2023 Lexus IS, but the IIHS designated the 2022 Lexus IS as a Top Safety Pick, so you can likely expect similar results with the 2023 model year.

How much does the 2023 Lexus IS cost?

One of the deciding factors as to whether someone will purchase or lease a fully loaded 2023 Lexus IS is the price. The IS 350 F Sport will be available for $44,910, while the AWD models will start at $45,660.

There’s something to be said about a fun, fast, and sporty vehicle that also receives excellent safety scores. The top trim not only provides the comfort that drivers seek but also the performance and safety that they need.