2011 Lexus IS 350

Review

The 2011 Lexus IS 350 has a base MSRP of $37,595, and contains a 3.5L V6 engine generating 306 hp, partnered with a six-speed paddle-shift sequential automatic electronically controlled transmission. This sedan has a fuel economy of 18 mpg in city driving, and 25 mpg in highway driving.

Test Drive

The IS 350 performed well on test drives, providing a powerful acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, and, at least with upgraded brakes, were able to come to a complete stop after only 111 feet. The handling of the IS 350 is probably its most capable feature, demonstrating a great ability to remain planted on curves whether the car was on a city street or a mountain road, thanks to the reliable electric power steering. While the automatic transmission worked well, the manual transmission proved to be a bit confusing, with 5th and 6th gears being locked out. When the top of this convertible is closed, the aerodynamic design and hard top combine to offer a smooth, quiet ride, even when the automatic transmission was providing a bit of extra power for quick passing or merging.

Drivetrain

The 3.5L V6 engine of the IS 350 offers 306 hp at 6,400 rpm, and 277 pounds-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. This car is also a certified ultra-low emission vehicle. The IS 350 has rear-wheel drive, as well as a six-speed paddle-shift sequential automatic transmission, featuring the Electronically Controlled Transmission with Intelligence feature.

Interior

Interior features of the IS 350 include Bluetooth technology and support for USB audio, a 14 speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, dual zone automatic climate control for the passenger and driver, a sound-absorbing sun visor, push button start capability for easy, rapid departure, electroluminescent gauges, the Lexus Enform with Safety Connect system for navigation and emergency assistance anytime, a voice-activated HDD navigation system, and leather trim with birds-eye maple accents.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority with the Lexus IS 350, and safety features include a pre-collision system to assist with braking when a crash is imminent, antilock braking with brake assist to reduce stopping times, Safety Connect to provide emergency support even without a cell phone, a system of airbags including front and rear side curtain airbags, and driver and passenger knee airbags, adaptive front lighting for use during turns, vehicle stability control, a reinforced body, and a direct pressure tire monitor to notify the driver in case of low tire pressure.

Exterior Overview

The 2011 IS 350 is similar to the 2009 IS 350 in terms of design, and this vehicle shows off its cornering abilities and sleekness with a wide, low-profile design. The front bumper, lower body panels, and tail lights with integrated turn signals were all strongly influenced by racing designs. This aerodynamic look is complemented by a choice of 17 or 18 inch alloy wheels and integrated foglamps.

Resale Value

The previous models of the IS 350 have generally retained their value well over time, and major maintenance problems did not arise. Lexus tends to use high quality parts in their sedans, so performance has held up well in the IS 350 models of earlier years.

Pros

Pros of purchasing the IS 350 include its great handling, comfortable ride, powerful V6 engine, and its smooth, aerodynamic appearance and performance.

Cons

Cons of purchasing the 2011 Lexus IS 350 include a cramped backseat, and the fact that manual transmission is only available in some models.

Competitors

The vehicle closes to the 2011 Lexus IS 350 in terms of class and performance would have to be the BMW 335i, which also provides similar engine power and great handling.