2020 Lexus IS 300 Review: Dynamic Range

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2020 Lexus IS 300 Review: Dynamic Range 2020 Lexus IS 300...

Lionel Kong

09/12/2020

Rivals and Conclusion

Perhaps the biggest hurdle for the IS 300 at the moment is that sedans are currently not trending, in the face of the very popular crossover and SUV craze. However, as rivals go, it’s priced within shouting distance of both the BMW 318i and Mercedes-Benz C 180, both which have nearly 100 horsepower less under the hood. So if you’re the type looking for pure firepower that at least looks like pretty good value.

BMW’s 218i Gran Coupe is cheaper, and also a great drive

As far as the ownership experience goes though, Lexus owners will attest to the fact that the cars have a unique ‘Japanese-ness’ to them, with a level of craftsmanship and quality you would typically expect from a five-star Japanese hotel. But there’s no escaping the fact that for a certain audience the IS 300 lacks the Apple-like high techniness of its continental rivals, which could be an immediate deal-breaker for some shoppers.

But make no mistake, beneath the plush cabin, swathes of supple leather, and well-insulated engine is a chassis that has been honed like the keen edge of a samurai sword.

Lexus IS 300

Engine	1,998cc, in-line 4, turbocharged
Power	244hp at 5800rpm
Torque	350Nm at 1650-4400rpm
Gearbox	8-speed automatic
0-100km/h	7.0 seconds
Top Speed	230km/h
VES Band / CO2	C2 / 191g/km
Fuel Efficiency	8.4L/100km
Agent	Borneo Motors
Price	S$198,800 with COE
Availability	Now
Verdict	Still a sports sedan with a Japanese vibe at heart, though the radically different approach from continental rivals will continue to polarise opinion

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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