2020 Lexus IS 300 Review: Dynamic Range
Lionel Kong
09/12/2020
What’s Inside
In true Lexus tradition, the engineers have honed and developed the car with the same intensity as master Japanese craftsmen to further develop the driving experience of the IS. If you’ve just hopped into an IS from a German sports sedan the distinctively different character of the Lexus may take some time to adjust to, but there’s no mistaking a finely honed chassis beneath all that luxurious soft leather and noise insulation.
The cabin has not been heavily redesigned from the previous-gen version. It still carries with it the feel of a cocooning cockpit thanks to the high centre transmission tunnel, but the 10.3-inch infotainment screen has been moved closer to the driver so that there’s less reaching out when you need to swipe at the touchscreen.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is fully supported, though unlike some of its competition the car does not feature voice control functions. While you get a pair of USB ports in the centre storage box, the car lacks wireless phone charging. The instrument cluster is also of the analog variety which might feel dated in the age of LED screens, but they serve their purpose well and the smaller screen between the gauges displays all other relevant information. The analog clock on the dashboard is also a Lexus tradition, and is still in place on the new car.
One of the highlights of any Lexus is how comfortable the seats are and the IS 300 is no exception. They are properly supportive sports seats that will keep you in place through the craziest corners, but are also very soft and supple. Actually, the whole interior is built to a very high standard and what it lacks in bells and whistles tech, the car makes up for it with detailed craftsmanship that feels both very luxurious and durable.
As is expected for sedans of this size, backseat room is fine for two adults but a little close for three. There’s a pair of air vents feeding the back though, so it’s quite uniformly cool throughout the cabin.
About the Author
Lionel Kong
An old hand from the bad old days of crazy COEs, the straight-shooting, ex-CarBuyer editor is back in the four-wheeled world. Rumours that he went to another country to start a Judas Priest tribute band are unfounded.
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