After more than 20 years in production, Lexus debuted the IS 350 in 2013, the third generation of the IS model. This compact sports sedan has five seats, an available turbo four-cylinder or V-6 engine, and either rear or all-wheel drive.
With so many models, finding a few options that stand out is difficult. Moreover, when looking for a used Lexus IS 350, it’s crucial to consider which years can be problematic. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the best and worst Lexus IS 350 years. So keep on reading!
The worst years to avoid the Lexus IS 350 are 2014, 2015, and 2019. The best years to buy the Lexus IS 350 are 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmunds, J.D. Power, and Kelley Blue Book.
Worst Lexus IS 350 Years to Avoid
The model years that you should stay away from and the major issues that came with them are:
- 2014 Lexus IS 350
- 2015 Lexus IS 350
- 2019 Lexus IS 350
3. 2015 Lexus IS 350 (4.01 Rating)
Despite being a decent automobile overall, carcomplaint.com ranked it as the worst year owing to several issues. The most common complaint regarding this model is its problematic fuel system. At around 36,000 miles (57936.384 km), a failed wheel bearing in the rear passenger wheel occurs. Moreover, rattling sounds and visibility/wiper issues are also seen.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 4 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
2. 2019 Lexus IS 350 (3.82 Rating)
The 2019 Lexus IS 350 was another year to avoid. In this year, 2 recalls were filled due to fuel pump failure. Accidents are more likely to occur if the fuel pump stops working and the engine stalls while driving.
This year’s optional Remote Touch infotainment system is a major distraction while using it; moreover, the handling isn’t exciting for drivers, and the back seat is significantly smaller than competing models.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 1 complaint.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.5/5.0 expert ratings.
1. 2014 Lexus IS 350 (3.46 Rating)
The 2014 Lexus IS 350 was named the worst model year due to the high amount of complaints and lowest reliability rating it received overall. The lack of precision in the weather maps is the most typical issue with this year. This model year’s handling isn’t great, and the F Sport package doesn’t help. The infotainment system’s mouse interface is also somewhat distracting.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 14 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
Most Reliable Lexus IS 350 Years To Buy Used
You can drive these vehicles, either used or brand new, with confidence thanks to their powerful engine, remarkable fuel efficiency, and comfy cabin. These are:
- 2016 Lexus IS 350
- 2017 Lexus IS 350
- 2018 Lexus IS 350
- 2020 Lexus IS 350
- 2021 Lexus IS 350
- 2022 Lexus IS 350
- 2023 Lexus IS 350
7. 2018 Lexus IS 350 (4.26 Rating)
With zero complaints and 1 recall, the 2018 Lexus IS 350 stands out as the best year. Just looking at the Lexus IS 350 would lead you to believe that it is a performance vehicle without compromise.
The IS 350’s silky ride quality in crowded city streets and open highways and the very well-designed and high-quality Lexus cabin deserve most of the praise. Adaptive cruise control and a forward collision warning system with automated braking and pedestrian detection are particularly appealing features that come standard.
The 2018 Lexus IS 350 gets a few upgrades, including increased horsepower, a rearview camera, and a limited-slip differential on the F Sport model level with rear-wheel drive. You have the option to have adaptive front headlights.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 0 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.5/5.0 expert ratings.
6. 2023 Lexus IS 350 (4.34 Rating)
All things considered, the Lexus IS 350 presents a tempting offer. A substantial redesign in 2021 brought it into closer competition with its competitors. In 2023, a special appearance package will be available for the IS 350; however, only 480 will be made.
The 2023 Lexus has undergone minor external revisions. Blacktop, blacked-out hood, and 19-inch black Enkei wheels combine with cement-gray paintwork in the new Special Appearance package. Additionally, the IS 350 range now has a new entry-level trim level called F Sport Design.
Both the IS 350 F Sport Design and the IS 350 F Sport are available as 2023 IS 350 trim levels. You can choose between rear- or all-wheel drive, and both levels include a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 311 horsepower and 280 pounds of torque as standard equipment.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 0 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer and 4.0/5.0 expert ratings.
5. 2016 Lexus IS 350 (4.52 Rating)
If you are in the market for a compact luxury sedan that doesn’t skimp on design, comfort, or power, the 2016 Lexus IS 350 could be a good fit. The high-quality materials used to create its attractive interior are another selling point.
Equipped with rear-wheel drive and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is turbocharged, the 2016 Lexus IS 200 boasts 241 horsepower and 258 pounds of torque. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is employed. The EPA estimates that the IS 200t should get 26 mpg overall, including 22 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the interstate.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 2 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.6/5.0 expert ratings.
4. 2021 Lexus IS 350 (4.56 Rating)
The V6-powered 2021 Lexus IS 350 is a small luxury sedan that rivals the top four-door vehicles and the four-cylinder IS 300. A rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 350 F Sport achieves 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving. When compared to competitors using six-cylinder engines, that is superior.
Only the IS 350 F Sport trim level is available for the Lexus IS 350. The sole engine option is a 3.5-liter V6 producing 311 horsepower, and 280 pounds of torque is offered for it.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 0 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.7/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer and 4.0/5.0 expert ratings.
3. 2022 Lexus IS 350 (4.58 Rating)
The 2022 Lexus IS 350 is another good model year. Despite being a lively and agile sports sedan, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport’s engine falls short of expectations. While it may appear identical to last year’s model on the inside, there have been some upgrades, the most noticeable of which is to the infotainment system.
A rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 350 F Sport achieves 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Lexus offers only the F Sport trim level for the IS 350. It comes standard with either rear- or all-wheel drive with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower and 280 pounds of torque.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 0 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1/5.0 consumer and 4.0/5.0 expert ratings.
2. 2017 Lexus IS 350 (4.62 Rating)
If you’re looking for an entry-level IS luxury sedan, the 2017 model year is your best bet. It may lose ground to rival sport sedans, but it makes up for its pleasing V6 power, high-quality interior features, and unexpectedly smooth ride.
The 2017 Lexus IS 350 has mostly aesthetic upgrades. A new grille, headlights (LEDs this year), and air intakes make up the front end’s revamped appearance, while the rear end gets new taillights and exhaust tips. Forward collision warning and mitigation are standard this year on all IS models. Lastly, the IS 350 has undergone some small cabin upgrades.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 1 complaint.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.5/5.0 expert ratings.
1. 2020 Lexus IS 350 (4.62 Rating)
The IS 350 is back for 2020 with basically unchanged specs, although it was the most reliable option. The top of the IS series is the five-passenger 2020 Lexus IS 350 compact luxury sedan. The sole engine option is a 3.5-liter V6, producing 311 horsepower and 280 pounds of torque.
All-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission are possible options. It gets a fresh Blackline makeover with some black exterior and interior details. A combined 23 mpg is the EPA’s prediction for the IS 350 F Sport (20 city/28 highway).
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 1 complaint.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.5/5.0 expert ratings.
Common Lexus IS 350 Problems
Several Lexus IS 350 model years have experienced persistent problems that should be carefully considered despite the vehicle’s reputation for combining performance with luxury. The common issues with this car include:
- Engine and transmission issues
- Blown head gaskets
- Fuel smell
- Fuel system issues
- Failed fuel pump
- Grinding noises while driving
- Defective airbags
- Warping brake rotors/ Brake actuator issues
FAQs
Is the Lexus IS 350 a reliable car?
According to repairpal.com, among 31 midsize luxury cars, the Lexus IS 350 ranks ninth with a good 4.0 reliability rating. Its high reliability and quality reputation are reflected in this ranking, and surely it is a reliable used car to purchase.
Is Lexus IS 350 expensive to maintain?
The Lexus IS 350 has lower-than-average ownership expenses, with an average yearly repair cost of $543. The IS 350 is an excellent choice for drivers looking for a long-lasting luxury vehicle because repairs occasionally happen. Still, they are less likely to be significant problems than other automobiles.
How long will a Lexus IS 350 last?
A Lexus IS350 may easily last well over 100,000 miles (160934.4 km); some even manage to go 200,000 miles (321868.8 km) or more with proper care and maintenance.
What are Lexus IS 350’s other competitors?
The other better 2023 Lexus IS 350 alternatives include:
- Lexus IS 350
- BMW 330
- INFINITI Q50
- Acura TLX
- Genesis G70
- Alfa Romeo Giulia
Lexus IS 350 Vs. Lexus ES 350: Which one is better?
The Lexus IS 350 and the ES 350 are two of the most prestigious luxury vehicles on the market. The 2023 Lexus IS 350 is rated 7.7 out of 100, while the 2023 Lexus ES 350 gets 8 out of 10. Ultimately, personal taste and driving demands will determine which of the IS 350 and ES 350 models is better. The IS 350 is perfect for those looking for a thrilling ride because of its smaller size and sporty handling.
In contrast, the ES 350 offers a more spacious and refined ride, making it an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a plush daily vehicle that can accommodate many passengers and their belongings.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a high-end car that won’t break the bank to purchase, Lexus IS 350 is a good pick. Although it provides a powerful combination of comfort and performance, you should be cautious about buying particular model years because of recalls and documented issues. Get yourself one of the best years and elevate your driving experience.
