2021 Lexus IS350 | Hard Sell

We review the new 2021 Lexus IS350 and IS300 before we release the IS500 videos. We discuss the pros and cons of the moderately updated sedan. While stylistically this is a big step forward, the carry-over pieces are showing their age. We discuss price and driving character. Bottom line, would you choose this over a Genesis G70, BMW 3 Series, or Acura TLX?
#Lexus #IS #cars
Index:
00:00 Intro
00:27 Interior Impressions
2:45 Mechanical Impressions
6:05 Driving Impressions
12:49 Final Thoughts

[@nevinronald5518]

unnecessarily bashing a nice car…idk what trade offs you’re talking about

[@savagegeese]

Not bashing anything. This car has been held back for far too long. Its very much similar to the car from 2014. When you look how far the TLX and G70 have gone in development makes me sad. Look at the ES350 interior and LC, this company is capable of more when they put the effort into it.

[@anydaynow01]

It's typical Toyota, overcharging for reliability.

[@JonnyBeoulve]

This car just isn't very good. While competitors did major updates to their cars, the IS has only been updated in minor ways. P.S. I test drove a 2021 IS350 today and while I liked it, I was happy to get back to my 2017 BMW 4-series.

[@sbernhard83]

Did you listen to the comparison to other cars in this segment? Just because it’s “nice” doesn’t mean it’s a good value or competitive in its class. An automotive journalist that holds back fair criticism isn’t worth my time. I appreciate the comparisons because that’s real journalism, not blind hype.

[@RandomVideos-re9ux]

nice car doesn’t only mean it looks good, it also means that it has advanced equipments, competitive pricing, and good value compared to its class. The IS is definitely not one if them. If you don’t even know what the trade offs are even though they are clearly mentioned in the video already, then i really don’t know what to say.

[@connorwilliams5325]

I'm realizing I don't give a shit about 85% of these cars... but I'll be damned if I miss an episode lol

[@mountainhobo]

You guys really need an ending section, "What would I rather get in this segment for that money".

[@TheSerbianG]

"Probably going to very reliable and not bend you over at dealership when you get this thing serviced" and that is all you need to know about owning a Lexus

[@ps3alphagamer12]

Except if you bring a Lexus to a Lexus dealer for any out of pocket services or repairs your paying 190 per hr

[@gazzarafalemozzy4766]

as long as its not a hybrid..

[@dennisfeng6626]

Oh I get bent over every time, but I do very rarely need to get bent over.

[@danr154]

yea japanese parts are still imported and marked up......its still dumb expensive.

[@gazzarafalemozzy4766]

@@danr154 its under warranty..

[@longgrayline8055]

Absolutely a great car that never breaks down and is super comfortable and sporty. I wouldn’t call it a hardcore sports car, but it is a very nice vehicle. I’m on my third one and have never done anything but change the oil, tires, and brake pads. Can’t say that for anything American or European I have owned.

[@mcgrath274]

I'm about to buy one. I drive 50k per year. How many miles have you seen on yours?

[@Alltracavenger]

@@mcgrath274 I'm not the OP, but a family member has a 2016 RC300 AWD(basically the coupe version of the IS) with about 45K on the clock, which they bought brand new. Not a lot of mileage, but other than a control arm replacement due to a curb check incident it's been completely bulletproof. I've done nine-hour road trips in this car in one shot and was completely comfortable the entire time. I'm looking hard at replacing my current daily with an IS300 or 350 AWD because of their experience with the car.

[@SamA7x]

How often did your tires go out?

[@sammyg4806]

I have a 2011 one. Still runs after 130k miles. Relatively quiet cabin, and durable material (except for the dash, that had a recall). Not the greatest car, a tier below the Europeans. Very reliable, though we did have issues after 110k miles with a fuel sensor that needed shop repair, but it was all under $1200.

[@OldManShoutsAtClouds]

​@SamA7x wtf kind of question is this? 😂 Yikes, ya'll non-car-people are embarrassing

[@richardnavratil9661]

Glad to see you guys crested the 500k sub mark. Lets get these guys to 1M, they deserve it lot more than the other clickbaiters out there!

[@82dupont]

Maybe he needs to flail his arms a little more during his videos.

[@dammyo6010]

Truer words have never been spoken.

[@PremiumUserUltra]

100% true. The problem here is that this channel is for people who like full features. The other channels just have shorter form videos. If geese had clips I have no doubt they would go crazy in subs

[@asheru9254]

@@82dupont leave the flailing act to Scotty Kilmer

[@CudiFan224]

Agreed

[@RtB68]

As a 20-40 yo I would have mocked a person for buying any Lexus. I'm 55 now and I just bought a IS350 F Sport and I couldn't be happier. Most Lexus reviews never pick up on the reason why the demographic that buys a Lexus actually buys it. I've gotten to the stage where I'm mature enough to comfortably not care about other people's opinion on matters of taste or fashion or style. I know what I Iike and I don't need to justify. Get whatever you like. Good for you. I got this - and it's fucking great.

[@machina_spirit]

5:07 details like this is what makes you guys the best car reviewers on youtube hands down, no one else even comes close to noticing and pointing out technical details/differences like this. Congrats on 500k+ subs, and on your way to 1 million!

[@palimo3653]

Yes unlike that other guy that focuses on goofy things like how a door sounds when it closes

[@henrik1743]

Agree, I hope they can give the audio tests again, it should be soon hopefully, since I've been asking before and got the answer soon :D

[@vinny9152]

Underbody assessment is underrated. No guts no glory

[@JTMoodie2]

MORE OF THIS. This exact thing!

[@gladdy02]

@@palimo3653 damn, shot fired!

[@Bathgate155]

Just sold my '21 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, went and got a '22 IS 350 F Sport last week... loved the Alfa, could never drive it slow, and simply enjoy the ride. With the IS, I get to chill, and cruise, while enjoying the scenery. I'm happy with my IS 350. Oh, and it puts a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel!

[@ARentz07]

@@yyHabib I'll offer that on mixed driving, mine has averaged about 21 MPG.

[@MLHunt]

Great, thoughtful, informative review as always. Lexus reviews are generally about 90% predictable but you still have to go through the motions I guess, and you guys do it as well as anyone.

[@red95gts]

When you think about it, this is perfectly on-brand for Toyota/Lexus. They make a reliable drivetrain and then keep it around forever. They make a quiet cabin and a overall nice experience. They make a car you can buy new and pass it on to your kids when they grow up and it’ll still be running 20 years from now with relatively few repairs. But they don’t take risks. They don’t make an exciting car. They don’t make a car that puts a smile on your face when you get behind the wheel. For some people none of that is a priority and that’s ok. If Toyota is the plain vanilla of the automotive world, then Lexus is the all-natural vanilla bean. The F sport adds some sprinkles, but it’s never gonna be a banana split.

[@Syncopia]

Do you write for auto mags? Because that was well written.

[@Trevor_Leach]

That’s why I’m super excited for the IS500. Putting a V8 in this car is exactly something I want

[@RAZGR1Z]

They don't make exciting cars? That's just disingenuous. LC 500? RCF? GSF? ISF? LFA?

[@dimitriospangas5921]

Amazing comment*

[@Mr.Thermistor7228]

Lmaoo this is actually a great review of this car and Toyota/Lexus in general. Although, I’ll add one point that semi disagree with you, that when they want to take a risk they go all out and are capable of insanely great things, (lfa for example.) However, I give you a Banana Split Sunday grade for your review

[@wigletron2846]

No reason to get AWD? Some of us still need Starbucks during light rain.

[@Me-eb3wv]

I need my soy latte Frappuccino regardless if it’s snowing or not

[@CuttinInIdaho]

yeah...jeez what are these guys thinking?

[@iCreamDonuts]

Minnesota Snow

[@jonhowell6380]

Awd is nice to have here.. 😅

[@MahendraSingh-rp6er]

The only channel I can watch from beginning to end, the right amount of time, not 30min on visors, cup holders, purely on the soul of the car, thank you

[@asheru9254]

Blondie with super cars 😂

[@CursedDepartmentEastOffice]

It's definitely not perfect but aesthetically at least, it looks sharp as hell.

[@rizocars6115]

It looks like a 2014, looks old af

[@Patient_Lion_BS]

@@rizocars6115 wut

[@raymonds7492]

It’s funny looking like the C8 but at least the vette has mid engined proportions to help it.

[@chamade166]

The rear end is terrible. This car should cost the same as Acuras.

[@Lionsheartification]

It looks way better in person

[@1malikalik]

SG subscribers don't wanna hear about "Quirks and Features" and "weekend scores" that gets old real quick. The sooner people wake up this channel will have over a million subs. Keep up the Good Work Guys. Malik. Atl, Ga. 🇺🇸

[@itcangetbetter]

Speak for yourself. Some people wanna hear from multiple sources, and that's good too. Not signing my name. Because this isn't an email. Atlanta, GA

[@fc872e1]

Agree a million percent, Malik

[@KshitijKalani]

I'm interested in knowing quirks and features of cars which I'd never be able to purchase. Its alright to be interested in all of Savagegeese, Doug, matt watson, Rory from auto trader, throttle house etc.

[@ARentz07]

I agree with you, RWD is the only way to go unless you for some reason need AWD. I have a 2021 IS 350 F Sport RWD and am coming from a 2016 IS 300 AWD F Sport. The 8 speed feels more modern than the 6 speed, and my 2021 rides way better. It also comes with summer tires from factory that are far better than the awful all seasons that came on my 2016 AWD. Mine doesn't have the Dynamic Handling Pack, but it's got the Mark Levinson sound system, which is fantastic. I think that, for an IS 350 that's under $50 grand, it's actually a good value due to all the safety tech that's standard as well as ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. I have been liking it a lot as a daily driver and even took it on a mountain run and had a good time there too. It may seem dated in a few ways, but the fact remains that it is awesome to live with day to day. My two cents? Unless you need F Sport in your life, and you need AWD, just get the 300 AWD. It has the same engine and is about as fast as a 350 RWD from 0-60 anyway.

[@mathew936]

Will you trade in your car for the 500 F

[@ARentz07]

@@mathew936 My wife's not a fan of that idea, so probably not for a couple years if at all. Time will tell.

[@JJS432]

Or unless the 350 in your country only comes in AWD - Canada.

[@ARentz07]

@@JJS432 Yeah that is unfortunate. Though, you can also get the 300 AWD with F Sport in Canada, which is kinda neat. In the US, only 350 models have F Sport.

[@Naturalxlegend]

@@ARentz07 how much was the sticker price of your is 350 f sport ?

[@thekaysers3301]

Hey guys, I’ve been watching for some time and I gotta say those intros are straight bangers. Love the fact you guys are all about quality and are not afraid to joke around like that Buick Encore review.. I was laughing my ass off. You guys have literally established a whole new way to review cars I didn’t even know I wanted. Keep up the great work!

[@mrelectric4577]

This channel helped inspire me to buy a Lexus. I got a certified used ES 350 and I absolutely love it! More than any vehicle I have ever owned or driven. It is remarkable. I put 50,000 miles on it in 15 months. There is no better vehicle for highway cruisin.

[@dailyrant4068]

Until you sit in a LS... you clearly mean "no better vehicle for highway cruising FOR THE PRICE"

[@hassanstate8985]

You can not have reliability , performance and buying it cheap too , it’s never gonna happen. Thank you lexus to not sacrifice your signature which is reliability. Keep them reliable and plz don’t listen to media

[@ahmedalothman4998]

With all these issues, you cannot find them in the dealers right now. I think the exterior update is the big factor! It is really beautiful!

[@SicSemperBeats]

Toyota has to be making insane margins on this thing. 15 year old engine with a unneeded awd system that people will throw away money on. Not saying they should switch up the engines (reliability is awesome) but IS’s always blow me away when i see the new prices. Personally just cant justify spending $50k on a car that’s extremely similar the 2006 is350. (Amazing used cars though)

[@RK1FX]

I need awd.

[@scurfie2343]

When Toyoda loses its reliable reputation it will be curtains for the brand. Toyoda's are, and have been ugly vehicles.

[@SicSemperBeats]

@@RK1FX for what? Its a sub 300 wheel hp car. The rwd equipped model’s suspension literally doesn’t slide out on you anyway. Ive driven one in rain mulitple times and snow a few times. You’ll be ok lol if you’re up north you have winter tires anyway

[@SicSemperBeats]

@@scurfie2343 that will never happen. They use the same engines for decades, how would the reliability magically go down if the parts stay the same?

[@scurfie2343]

@@SicSemperBeats As the major auto manufacturers move to "green" automobiles and the old reliable engines are retired, what may happen then? I know I won't spend my money on new technology. And I know there's the Prius and I've driven it. Would I really want one? Nope.

[@dancinglizard3080]

It's hilarious when u see that in the infotainment they've been listening to some eurobeat 🤣

[@wonderboy1998]

Welcome to savagegeese channel.... You'll see a lot of weird music taste

[@dancinglizard3080]

@@wonderboy1998 big fan of that 🤣

[@tails300]

It’s a Japanese car so listening to euro beat gives an Initial D vibe 😂.

[@awvz_1194]

There's often little Easter eggs hidden in their videos. There was a bag of rice in the trunk of the Type R video lol

[@dancinglizard3080]

@@awvz_1194 love it when they do that to their videos 😭

[@MetalsForBrunch]

I prefer NA engines over turbo any day. Reliability counts the most if you don't plan on buying another car 6-15 years from now. Reliability doesn't matter if you change cars every 2-5years. I'm curious how the is500 compares to the Lexus gsf. Lexus is still king 👑 of reliability. Reliability should be always be standard in most luxury cars and Lexus is the only one to bring that to people. My 16 yr old s2000 runs strong and out lasted all of my friends luxuary German cars who broke down after 5 yrs.

[@djnaz6546]

Always enjoy watching your honest reviews guys!! Keep up the good work, I really found your videos useful when coming to purchasing a car and really helped me make the call based on your driving impressions!!

[@chinzilla6297]

Nothing rounds out my morning BM like a Savagegeese review.

[@ultimatist]

rounds out?

[@chop2093]

Damn right man , I know what ya mean.

[@Miop-je5of]

One of the most accurate and balanced opinions I have read. Have driven the full range of new IS vehicles as service loaners over the past year. Surprised at how old the car felt to drive and especially the interior. I also question the reliability of modern Lexus vehicles. Have had 14 visits to the dealer this year for my 2 vehicles. By the way, I bought a Lexus rcf, heavily influenced by your review. Fantastic daily driver. Keep providing excellent reviews as it greatly helps the manufacturers and people like myself who actually purchase the product.

[@johnp1899]

I work at a Lexus dealership good review but I think your missing the point

[@ARentz07]

Doesn't the stuff about the car feeling old also apply to your RCF? I mean the cars have the same platform and almost identical interiors - if anything the new IS will feel newer than your RCF.

[@jojotwice8918]

@@johnp1899 what's the word on reliability of newer models? is the electronics the reason why some cars need more maintenance?

[@PatrickHenryLibertyorDeath]

Good review but I think I will keep my 2001 IS300. Had it 21 years 235k miles. Best car ever.

[@rockybernina]

Idk.. my old Benz bent me over at the dealership.. 5k to fix it at 70k miles. I doubt a Lexus will do that. And that seams like a priority

[@Dylanbforthree]

Always thankful to have an enthusiast reviewer who also holds these companies accountable for not reaching the bar. Just got my SG shirt in, can't wait to wear it to the next car meet!

[@infidel900rr]

Despite the harsh review, I still think these are great cars and can't wait to hear about the IS500!! ;)

[@jonathannavarro6679]

The IS500 was supposed to compete with the M3 and is looking to be more on par with the M340i. Though I'd certainly prefer it over the is350.

[@Luminary2024]

@@jonathannavarro6679 it’s a 340 competitor, Lexus said there will an actual isf for the m3 if they choose to compete in that segment.

[@alpadilla7343]

Beautiful car and I do love mine…now imagine this vehicle with panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, F Sport Stamped front seats, power rear view mirrors, HUD, phone charger, Mark Levinson audio/Triple LED Headlights on all models, new infotainment (NX)….that would have been a Lexurious launch for the IS 500/350 in 2022! Thanks for a great review!

[@762x69]

Great video review. Looking even more forward to the IS500

[@mjonez8892]

I leased a 2021 is 350 FS for my wife. We love it. The car is so much fun to drive, I don’t know how fast these guys want to go, but our AWD hauls @ss it corners great, handling is amazing, interior is Beautiful, the seats hug you and keep you in place during performance cornering and it turns heads. Well worth 55k, IMO.

[@ARentz07]

@@anonymous00117 I've driven lots of fun cars, too. I previously owned a GTI, I've rented lots of fun cars, like recently, a Boxster S, and a Camaro SS convertible. However I think the IS 350 still holds up as being a great car to use every day while being super capable on a back road. I won't say it's not fun just because it doesn't have 400 horsepower or 1.0 g's of skidpad grip. It's just a lot of fun and responsive to drive. Sure, the AWD car has a dated drivetrain. I don't disagree there. But the RWD version is a different thing.

[@kcm732]

amazing content as always. i also really love these IS variants. i think Toyota/Lexus did a fantastic job styling the vehicle overall. alot of good stuff here

[@leeraymer166]

I completely agree with your take on this spec of the IS. If I were buying, I would probably go with the IS500 or the IS350 RWD with the dynamic handling package as well. The only reason you would choose the Lexus over the German Sports Sedans or Genesis is depreciation and resale value. Anything Lexus holds its value and even if you trade every 3-5 years like I tend to do, you still get better residual value on the back side when you go to trade this in.

[@observe_and_purport]

Your reviews are spot on. I the focus on presentation + point making despite an overall friendly demeanor. Objectivity ftw.

[@SilverScarletSpider]

I love how you always compare cars to its segment rivals in depth. The detail is important.

[@fredmagic09]

A lot of you are forgetting that a lot of people don't live in warmer climates where RWD is perfectly capable but those us that live in the Midwest/Northern states...AWD is the only way to go with the harsh winters we have.

[@billymania11]

This car is handsome. Being handsome means a great many flaws can be forgiven because darn, you look so good going down the road. Sometimes, certain people want beauty above all else.

[@waheedali2429]

Yep absolutely correct

[@jaisonj92]

Handsome and reliability is what woman seek. Lol

[@305Nick]

Another mind blowing review!! Thank you for your awesome work

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

Woah. Watch this on a TV or at least a monitor. It's crazy how much better these videos get.

[@dammyo6010]

Quality production for sure.

[@Argedis]

My living room set up is literally my computer hooked up to a 70" 4k TV & Custom sound system. Who needs Satellite or Cable TV when you have the internet?

[@simooi510]

I always watch this channel but never commented. You are the best car reviewer in the world.

[@Piercebelton]

Something worth noting here is that lexus tend to lease REALLY well due to that reliability/resale value. Wife and I got one for her because the cost to lease a standard 4cyl was so much less than the German competition.

[@harrybuhse8622]

These are the sort of nuances that on-paper stats don't spell out to you. Looking forward to the is500 video now guys well done.

[@FBI-ht4wy]

All other things aside, the exterior Is *GORGEOUS*

[@venictos]

I just bought a 2023 IS 350 F sport in ultra white and a white interior. It gets a lot of looks and its a pleasure to drive.

[@cesarculajay9830]

What did you pay for yours , I’m looking into getting one in the coming months , planning on dropping atkeast 15k grand on a down payment for one!

[@venictos]

@cesarculajay9830 54K. Traded in a 2014 4runner for 24K. Registration was about 1.3K, and insurance is 130 a month.

[@SROSHMAN]

Hi Mr. Savage, Thanks for not ranting about satellite radio and visors.

[@sjwright2]

BOX TEST

[@bleckndecker]

And why a new Santa Cruz or any soccer mom mid-sized suv isn’t good off-road? Smh….

[@MLHunt]

Now now. In fairness to those guys, they do explore issues that are arguably less essential in their reviews, but they are nonetheless things a lot of car shoppers care about. And a lot of people find them fun and entertaining.

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

@@MLHunt Too loud, too fast. This savagegeese video was well paced and actually soothing to watch.

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

@@bleckndecker Which is wrong. These vehicles can do a lot when you don't compare them to a Wrangler.

[@Gesh622]

I was kinda waiting for this review !

[@davidjourney5808]

waited a year for this, great video guys!

[@ladislaualbert2807]

Definitely the most comfortable car I have had since a 328i in past and recent Golf R. Not as sporty in the corners, but still takes sweeping curves very well. In Sport+ mode, acceleration is pretty good once revs are up above 3000 and sounds great (especially compared to my previous Golf R). I am definitely enjoying the Lexus dealership experience and no issues over 20K miles in. Thinking about the IS 500, but gas mileage and question whether this chassis can really handle that much power (not to mention extreme rarity of IS 500s- am not willing to pay over $10k above MSRP) holding off my decision. My bottom line- not regretting purchase but definitely amongst least sporty of the small sports sedans.

[@jaredfreestone6608]

This is the fastest selling luxury car in America. Hard sell? Obviously not. The numbers speak for themselves. Hard sell for car nerds maybe, but not the general population. You obviously don't have a read on the pulse of car buyers

[@bcatz454]

Yeah this was on my top 3 on buying a new car in 2020,, but then I got into 2016 LS460 F-sport 35k miles with an extended warranty for less than a new IS250. Love my ls460

[@pranavnalole8005]

I really love the is 350 transmission and how it locks up at only 2nd gear in manual mode. Finally. a Lexus that u can launch

[@sammygoris]

I agreed with their points, they are very objective and factual. Yes the competition offers a lot more in driving experience, but I would argue that 80% of people care about reliability and practically, which is what they do 80% of the time when they're commuting, going on trips etc, than the 20% of people who need the ultimate performance machine, and even then, probably only push it to the absolute limits maybe 30% of time. A very small amount properly push it 100% of the time. Even people that do track their Lexus also want to drive it during the week and not breakdown. If someone said to me, "I want the ultimate driving experience so I can push it all the time", I would say buy a different car. But most of my friends want something which is "reliable, practical, easy to maintain, looks sexy, a bit more premium and refined, but also has a bit of fun when you put your foot down and throw it around the odd corner", then there are a lot of good options, of which a Lexus is. So its driving experience, limited as it may be, is perfectly adequate for my needs.

[@jldp24]

80%?? You hardly see Lexus on the roads...hey popular amongst older ppl.. for good reason..they reliable because there is nothing going on

[@tonysterbenc]

Yeah, but if all you care about is reliable, practical and easy to maintain, you can get into a sport-trim Camry for about $15k less.

[@sammygoris]

@@tonysterbenc yes if that’s all you care about, but I also mentioned ‘looks sexy, a bit more premium and refined’, and for many people, even the sport-trimmed Camry won’t tick those boxes. If all I wanted was practically and reliability, then I’d go for the Camry. But people are willing to pay a bit more for the L badge and the extra refinement. In regards to the price difference, it’s the maintenance/running costs that make the difference between Lexus and other premium European brands.

[@jamjam-1418]

Solid point of view as always. Also that WTF spec… that’s definitely a Lexus move to appeal to the older crowd. Personally, I think their turbo’s aren’t terrible as they are at least still port and direct injection. IS 300 RWD for the win!

[@HandsomeAlex25]

That's the Canadian spec! They don't sell RWD sedans under any badge up here, unless they are the full fat 500 bhp super sedans.

[@JL-rj9fl]

@@HandsomeAlex25 That is not true. You can get most definitely get the IS300 RWD here in Canada. They don't stock them typically at the dealer, because most want the AWD, but they'll order one in if you want it.

[@HandsomeAlex25]

@@JL-rj9fl Oh nice! Good to know. I tried to spec RWD online, and it's not available, so I thought that AWD was all that was sold.

[@JL-rj9fl]

@@HandsomeAlex25 Yeah, you can still get them. I went on the Lexus site and had a look, they probably updated it since you last looked there. A Lexus guy told me they don't sell nearly as many as the AWD of course, and they don't stock them. Every RWD they sold had to be ordered in.

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Do you feel it’s as sporty as they say it is?

[@OmegaEGGY]

oh man I'm so excited for your IS 500 video

[@imnotusingmyrealname4566]

Having driven all cars you made an excellent comparison.

[@johnridesadv2512]

5 years ago I invested in the company that is the #1 producer of cheap piano black plastic, and thanks to Mark and Jack, I just retired at age 37.

[@AllEyezOnRod]

My 2018 Lexus GS 350 F Sport is an absolute great vehicle just like the IS you reviewed which is durable and will outlast the BMW, Mercedes, and Audi’s. Those cars are great however I won’t have to worry about living at the dealership and paying those high repair fees.

[@oo-zk6mr]

Been hoping you guys would give this one a review! Might seem like an odd comparison but I'm torn between the IS300 RWD and ES350. Definitely would go for the Grecian Blue/Tan in the IS.

[@videogazer801]

Damn, these are badass reviewers. Very, very good video.

[@saifamin2091]

I’ve had the 2021 is350 rwd for 4 months now and I love the car, there’s not much I’d trade it for. The car has been very livable and it’s given me everything I’ve needed

[@Azkeroth]

8:00 in the gauge cluster, you can see Mark and Jack are men of culture

[@svalbard01]

Supereurobeat--yeah!

[@murkage3]

That isn’t the gauge cluster my man that’s the infotainment screen lol

[@svalbard01]

@@murkage3 Actually, you can see it in both the cluster and infotainment screen. Look between the steering wheel spokes.

[@timbruner4628]

Another great SG review. BTW, I found the noise floor for the segments filmed in the shop much higher than normal. Especially the wrap-up at the end. Maybe something to check into.

[@jackholmes8105]

It was sadly raining outside heavily

[@timbruner4628]

@@jackholmes8105 That would explain it. Thanks. I know that was not typical for SG videos…

[@lukaszbielanin]

I purposely drive more often on Dowell and Fisher road now just to have the opportunity to wave at you guys! Fun to compare my car to the cars y’all drive on the same roads.

[@jj481012]

Being a mature, professional young adult, the Lexus IS350 is all I’ve ever wanted.

[@JamesR1986]

The official car of your late 20s

[@dannyz955]

Yet for the same money, you could have so much more..

[@whiskeykid358]

Lexus has a lot of haters, but the fact remains that they make reliable, comfortable vehicles that make you look like a respectable human being to clients and business partners

[@djsg143]

There are cars that get lukewarm reviews that ultimately become used car treasures because of reliability and resale. Lexus has been contributing to this category of car since the brand hit the scene and up until now, about 50-60 percent of their models made that list. Pretty sure this will be on that list over the 200T and other turbo or hybrid models.

[@alexmoroz3243]

Great video, cant want to see the IS500 review!

[@joseacuna3239]

The final thought were spot on. I’ve been driving a 2014 IS250 and car is numb, it drives well (like the BRZ) but is slow, but everything is very sober. There’s a segment that will appreciate but is not for everybody

[@jeffsnavely588]

yes the 250 is slow - test drove one and it just felt too weak - the 200t version is much better is you're not stepping up to the 350.

[@viper9857]

I was leaning towards the all wheel drive but you guys convinced me to go with the real wheel drive if I go with the Lexus IS

[@jeffsnavely588]

as soon as you sit in the AWD model and feel the HUGE bump against your right foot from the dif intruding into the cabin, you will forget about the AWD version.

[@dpowell468]

Hard sell? Lol it was the number one selling luxury sedan in its class . The irony

[@bizooty8782]

Can't wait for the 500 review!

[@QuophexAlexander]

Prestigious yet qualified for everyday use. I love the improvements and quality of interior. AWD my best option - wireless AppleCarPlay.

[@DB-sd3cw]

Lol why do you type like an AI

[@rockoutkids]

While this car is seriously lacking, I still respect it when I see it on the road.

[@SharpElite1991]

How do you respect a vehicle

[@jldp24]

It has nice styling..that's it

[@jeremyrushing5951]

Also, i cross shopped all those cars that you mentioned and still ended up with the lexus for a variety of reasons, that being said, i’ll also be keeping it 10 yrs plus. There was just no contest when looking at longevity

[@yoshidis4]

Nice video, I appreciate your honesty! But, the total white screen at 3:00 just burned my retinas! 3:04 Are you familiar with dark mode presentations?

[@romacarrasco5835]

Love it. This is one of videos by far SavageGeese!

[@mcflysuntiedshoe9389]

This is what happens when u ask George Lucas to review Star Trek

[@cruisertechgt]

When ever I see the new Lexus IS it really catches my eye...I don't know why but it looks really good. I think its the paintjob and front body lines

[@JL-hc3to]

Can’t agree more

[@DLPTonyATL]

I know you guys have to review the AWD because A. Lexus put it out there and B. Folks are buying them. I have a ‘16 IS350 RWD and I love, love, love this car! Then I see a review with the AWD and I’m like…ugh…not all variants are like this, don’t judge the others by this one. I’m SO GLAD you guys separated them out.👏🏽👏🏽 FYI - On the waiting list for the IS500. Can’t wait to see what you guys think…

[@chrispy857]

great video as always

[@josefgordon7712]

Love love love that exterior/interior color combo. Would have it on the FSport or whatever the performance model is called and be completely happy for the next 20 years.

[@bleedzacid]

I absolutely love my RWD 350 will be updating the exhaust and putting air ride on it

[@ScottE5]

Such a well-balanced, fair review.

[@john346x7]

Great review as always. The quality of your work is amazing. The normally aspirated V6 and transmission are far behind the German rivals. While still a very good place to site and commute, I understand the difference. The 3 year lease buyer, who does not care about reliability, can easily choose the German rivals. For the buyer that will hold onto this car for 10 years or pick up a 3 year old car off lease, how would you rank this compared to the German rivals? Is the added cost worth it?

[@pharaohosam]

Not gonna bash you for your opinion, since I'd rather you be honest with us about how you feel. But I will say I do disagree with much of your take. I guess it all depends on perspective, but to be getting a pretty powerful car (311 hp), perhaps the most beautiful exterior in the segment, a creak-free, rock solid interior with the best build quality you'll find, and class-leading reliability... I mean there's very little not to like. Every one of this car's competitors come with trade-offs of their own.

[@thatpersiandude7386]

My co-worker bought one last year and he got gapped multiple times by old g37 which is significantly cheaper yet performs better.

[@daftcow706]

​@@thatpersiandude7386it has 30 more horsepower, also if you've ever been in a Nissan, they feel and are very cheap and lack any luxury

[@basithph8958]

Sure this may not be a perfect car but it’s still very good for what it is Can’t wait to see the review on the IS500 V8!

[@OneJuanWon]

Honest assessment of this series. My pick = the is350 RWD w/ F-Sport package when its 5 years old. The depreciation makes it good value proposition being a Toyota product.

[@anlyu5172]

100% agree, I own a 2015 rc350 f sport and I love my car, but I’d never buy it brand new off the dealership 😅 too bad they won’t launch is500 in Australian market, it could be my ultimate dream car in 5-7years

[@Chidoro41]

Ohh well. Got my 350 awd iridium and black with the standard suspension. Sounds great, drives great, looks fantastic, and I don’t see the 6 speed as a negative. Barring a wreck, this will be my car for a decade and I love every time I drive it.

[@markmiller3279]

The six-speed makes it slower and less fuel-efficient than its competitors. If you came from an older car with five or six speeds it no doubt feels very normal, but it could be better. The performance of that low-torque engine is emphasized by the transmission.

[@ARentz07]

@@markmiller3279 If one is spreadsheet-shopping, they won't buy an IS. Clearly, Chidoro41 is not a spreadhseet shopper. However, I also ended up in a 2021 IS 350 (RWD, in my case), and I can acknowledge it's an imperfect car. But damn it if it isn't fun to drive on a back road and doesn't sound great too. Not to mention those seats are incredible.

[@Chidoro41]

@@markmiller3279 the fun of the car is the linear build up of the speed . Yes, gas mileage is pretty lousy but six speeds is enough as you get the build up in each gear. The unit is bullet proof which I value more highly than losing out on low end torque. I was on the fence with an A4 and the TLX but couldn’t trust the Audi enough to own (even though it was my favorite to drive) and the TLX was very disappointing.

[@Alltracavenger]

I'm really late to the party, but I think it's a good, concise review. However, despite some of the dings I feel this is likely going to be the car for me. I'm looking for good bad weather performance as I live at high altitude and things can get nasty in an instant. I'm looking for comfort and more performance than what you'd get out of a normal commuter car but I don't need to have my face ripped off. I want a car I know is solid enough to drive 20+ years, and this drivetrain is proven. Not just reliability, but durability. I want this car to last me into retirement so I can focus on my other cars. If I want a bit more spirit, I'll take my BMW or even reach for the keys to Toyota's first AWD car and have fun. The IS will be for comfort and a driving experience that will be more spirited than a crossover, SUV, or EV.

[@Blue-moon12]

311 hp from an N/A V6 sounds like good power to me. Add reliability sounds like a good all round package

[@SIIKAP1]

Yeah 311 is a solid amount for the market segment. It’s worth it to maintain great reliability.

[@Tsand4]

Yea but it has no torque. And you gotta rev it all the way to redline to get the measly 280ft lbs of tq anyway which is shitty slow tranny doesn’t help one bit. Shit the g70 has 376lb ft of tq at 1300rpm. That’s basically off idle. And it stays flat all the way up to 5k rpm then the 365hp takes over. So it pushes you back in your seat all the time. Same with every other turbo 6 cyl in the segment that has peak torque below 2krpm.

[@ZalkinVr]

I've had the pleasure of driving just about all of the variants of the newer IS, and it couldn't have been said better. No matter what, you are going to get a comfortable, reliable sport Sedan that looks fantastic. However, how you decide to spec out the IS will make or break the driving experience. The first new IS I drove was an IS300 AWD. That one left a very poor taste in my mouth until I had the chance to drive an IS350 F-sport with the handling package, with just about every option. From a driving dynamics standpoint, it felt like a completely different car. Sure, the 3.5l V6 still isn't gonna push you to the back of your seat, but its more than enough to party around, especially on the twisty backroads.

[@zareefkabir705]

Good stuff as always

[@toyota420xp]

Reliability means everything to me I don’t fucking care how much better the car might be it’s not better if it’s going to break sooner I mean that is crap and I will be the number one thing for me and everything on the second

[@aabikrman]

Interesting review but you can keep your Beemer's, Audi's, Nissan's, or whatever else you two were referring to in this car's "segment"... How are those "performance" cars with all the failure prone features working out for you when she's sitting in the shop awaiting expensive, unobtainium parts from Germany or wherever ? Personally, I've had it with the "high performance" junk that passes for "highest rated". I'll take the "boring" refinement, reliability, and over-engineering of the IS any day over ANY of the other cars being compared to. I made the switch to Lexus about 5 years ago and would recommend it to anybody unless you have lots of patience and money to burn on these other cars in the "segment".

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Good review and are the IS300 and IS500 videos coming?

[@albussnow]

ya i think you summed it up. it's a good car to own for a long time

[@HOTPLATEGAMING]

Toyota is milking the shit out of this generation IS Just like the Dodge Charger

[@NeutralGenericUser]

No they're not. It's more like they don't want to discontinue it while it's still selling, but it's not worth it to invest into actually developing a next gen product. Rather than milking it, they're being uncertain about it's future. I almost wish they discontinued it respectfully. It's a shame, because their designers are incredible. This thing looks absolutely stunning. It deserves so much better than this. Heck, they could've kept most of the platform the same and just put the 3.5L twin turbo V6 from the LS and updated the interior with their new touch screen system like in the new NX, and this would've done really well. It's sad to see something so beautiful get neglected like this.

[@andybub45]

There’s nothing wrong with this IS

[@Syncopia]

This is what happens when a company rests on its laurels and banks on decades of 'reliability rep'. You end up refreshing an 8 year old platform with a 15 year old engine that's uninspiring compared to literally anything else on the market.

[@TheGreektrojan]

Right. I'm not sure what the IS350 is really bringing that a fully loaded Mazda3 isn't for 15k+ less at this point. A few details like ventilated seats and better audio system and technically RWD. Even the predicted reliability. I say this as someone who seriously cross-shopped these 2 but didn't see enough compelling reasons to go with the Lexus. product.

[@GarageGuerilla]

Well Toyota would not bother developing a new engine family which will be extinct within the next 10 years.

[@chocolatewheelchair]

Would you rather have this car or an Infiniti Q50?

[@dammyo6010]

@@chocolatewheelchair I'd rather have a Genesis G70.

[@angusbeef4252]

The Japanese automakers are still recovering from the 08 financial crisis. You can see it in their design/tech; they fell far behind the rest of the world and had to keep producing high margin older vehicles to get by. I really hope they start to push forward again.

[@wsl5585]

Only issue with my '14 IS350 AWD Fsport is the front tires wearing prematurely on the inside. If I consider a '21 I'll have the dealer compare the alignment specs between a '14 and a '21. Thank you for the past and continued review of Lexus cars.

[@Canuckrz]

The alignment wasn't so much the issue so much as the soft lower control arm bushings. A common mod people do is to swap them out for the GS-F bushings as they're fairly cheap, stiffer, and directly bolt up.

[@ARentz07]

I've had my 2021 for over a year and about 14,000 miles, and I don't see any signs of premature inner tire wear.