Pros
- Return of the naturally aspirated V8 satisfies performance purists
- Flagship IS 500 F Sport Performance goes all out on sportiness
- Outstanding refinement and build quality
Cons
- Aging platform
- Dated infotainment interface
- Automatic-only transmission while competitors offer manual options
What’s New This Year?
- V8-powered IS 500 F Sport Performance model joins lineup
KBB Editors’ Overview
KBB Overall Rating: 4.0 out of 5
The compact luxury sedan segment may be a waning segment among U.S. car buyers, but that’s not keeping stalwarts like Audi, BMW, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz — and yes, Lexus, from exploiting this SUV-defying genre.
Each carmaker comes with its distinct DNA: Audi’s A4 brings a purposeful tone to the proceedings; BMW’s 3 Series is arguably the sportiest of the bunch; Genesis’s G70 surprises with a fresh take on the spirited 4-door format (and like BMW, still offers a manual); and Mercedes-Benz’s C-Class is the luxurious alternative of the bunch.
Lexus expanded into the performance realm in recent years, launching the Mercedes AMG and BMW M car-battling “F” sub-brand a dozen years ago in the hopes of gaining track cred among driving enthusiasts. The IS F debuted to solid praise and carried the torch for 6 years, only to be discontinued and leave the model lineup with less inspiring 4 and 6-cylinder powerplants delivering anywhere between 241 and 311 horsepower… until now.
Joining the Lexus IS fray is a new range-topping, V8-powered model dubbed the IS 500 F Sport Performance. Though not quite a hallowed “F” car (like the late, great, 416 horsepower IS F), the new model is a promising step up that should keep enthusiasts interested in the Lexus brand. Even better, the IS 500 F Sport Performance produces more power (472 horsepower) than the IS F did and sticks to its purist roots by packing a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 under its raised hood. The new model is also distinguished by quad exhaust tips, dark chrome window trim, and 19-inch Enkei wheels. The IS 500 F Sport Performance routes its power to the rear wheels via the same 8-speed automatic gearbox in the IS 300 and IS 350 RWD. The new model comes bundled with a dynamic handling package with adaptive suspension and a Torsen limited-slip differential. Rounding out the package is upgrade aerodynamic cooling and enlarged brakes for stronger stops.
Those seeking milder options can start with the 4-cylinder IS 300 RWD model, the 6-cylinder IS 300 AWD, or the 6-cylinder IS 350 F Sport in rear-drive or all-wheel drive.
How Much Does the 2022 Lexus IS Cost?
We expect the new 2022 Lexus IS to start around the $40,000 mark.
We anticipate the new IS 500 F Sport Performance to break the $50,000 mark, making it comparable to Audi’s S4 ($49,900) but more accessible than BMW’s M340i ($54,700) or Mercedes-Benz’s C 43 ($56,500).
Expect typically strong resale value for Lexus sedans, and be sure to check KBB.com’s Fair Purchase Price to get an idea of actual transaction amounts in your area.
Driving the 2022 Lexus IS
Lexus has long prided itself on refinement— an isolated cabin, a smooth ride, and seamless power to cosset passengers in a cocoon of comfort. Before the RC and LC models introduced bona fide sports cars into the lineup, the edgiest Lexus models were the IS variants. Once the sports cars joined the party, the sharp-edged character of the IS appeared to soften.
Now that the Lexus lineup has settled and matured, the brand is now infusing more aggressiveness into the IS lineup with the IS 500 F Sport Performance. While the IS 300 and 350 models offer a responsive package that’s predominantly comfort-focused, Lexus says that the new IS 500 brings a louder, sharper, more satisfying experience for drivers who enjoy speed. Quad exhaust pipes deliver raucous sounds from the sonorous V8; 0-60 mph comes in 4.5 seconds, and beefier brakes deliver strong stops.
Favorite Features
EASY-TO-LIVE-WITH PERFORMANCE
The Lexus IS has always known what it wants to be: a performance sedan that’s usable every day, and that quality endears it to driving enthusiasts who appreciate comfort.
COMFY SEATS
Lexus’s perches have always stood out in the crowd, and the IS’s are no different: They strike an ideal balance between comfort and supportiveness.
2022 Lexus IS Interior
The Lexus IS interior shines with a feeling of solidity and high-quality materials, though some might find it a bit tight, space-wise. There’s a functional sincerity to the interior design, with traditional hard buttons resisting the touchscreen-centric approach used by some competitors.
While the seats are among the best in the industry, the IS’s infotainment system is somewhat of a fly in the ointment. The 10.3-inch display works well enough with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the available 1,800-watt Mark Levinson sound system is a standout. However, the touchpad that manages the multimedia system lags behind the industry’s best.
2022 Lexus IS Exterior
Led by Lexus’s controversial Spindle grille, the IS’s exterior styling combines sculpted lines with a low-slung stance. Several design elements work cohesively together — continuous character lines, one-piece headlight and taillight assemblies — but the Lexus IS’s styling isn’t for everyone, especially the higher performance models, which double down on attention-grabbing details like air large intakes and raised hoods.
2022 Lexus IS Standard Features
Lexus traditionally includes a generous list of standard features on its models, and the IS is no exception. Even the base model comes equipped with dual-zone climate control and push-button start/stop as standard, with an 8-inch touchscreen that incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2022 Lexus IS Options
Base Lexus IS models come with a few simple options packages. A Comfort package ($1,950) adds a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel, power moonroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and special black trim. A premium Mark Levinson sound system is bundled with navigation ($2,750), while Navigation can also be ordered a la carte ($1,670). Higher models offer the F Sport Dynamic Handling ($4,200), while individual options include Intuitive Parking Assist ($600) and triple-beam LED headlamps ($1,250).
2022 Lexus IS Engine
The 2022 Lexus IS is available in 4-, 6-, and 8-cylinder powerplant configurations offering a broad array of performance options. The 4-cylinder IS 300 is only available with rear-drive and an 8-speed automatic, while the 6-cylinder IS 300 AWD drives all four wheels through a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Opt for the 6-cylinder IS 350 or IS 350 F Sport AWD, and you’ll get an 8-speed or 6-speed automatic, respectively. The 8-cylinder IS 500 F Sport Performance utilizes an 8-speed automatic.
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (IS 300)
241 horsepower
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,650 – 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/31 mpg
3.5-liter V6 (IS 300 AWD)
260 horsepower
236 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000 – 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26 mpg
3.5-liter V6 (IS 350 F Sport)
311 horsepower
280 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28
5.0-liter V8 (IS 500 F Sport Performance)
472 horsepower @ 7,100 rpm
395 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A/24
Which Model is Right for Me?
2022 Lexus IS 300
Dual-zone climate control
Illuminated Entry
18-inch alloy wheels
2022 Lexus IS 300 AWD
260 horsepower V6
All-wheel drive
2022 Lexus IS 350 F Sport
311 horsepower V6
Rear-wheel drive
2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance
472 horsepower V8
19-inch alloy wheels
Dynamic Handling Package
