2022 Lexus IS350 F Sport - POV Review - More Than The Reliable Choice ?

Everyone knows Lexus for their rock solid reliability and their stunning halo performance vehicles, but what is a daily driver, sporty sedan like from Lexus ? Does it step up to the competition or is it just the reliable choice ? Watch my review to find out!!
Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
0:35 - Exterior
3:10 - Exhaust/Engine Specs/Gas Mileage
3:56 - Trunk Capacity
4:25 - Interior/Rear/Front/Infotainment/Features
10:14 - 0-60 Launch/The Drive
16:00 - Handling/Highway Cruising
18:34 - Final Thoughts. Strictly the Reliable Choice ?
Thumbs Up if you Liked, Subscribe if you LOVED, learned something, or simply to support!

[@paulac1234]

People hate on Lexus and it’s annoying because I thought luxury and top notch build quality, decent power for daily driving means something. A true car enthusiast will find the beauty and craftsmanship in this car and brand.

[@DownshiftPass]

You make a super valid point! It's not a class leader, but it's far from the bad purchase either.

[@redhunnid5142]

It’s honestly because of how they look they don’t look like a luxury car. They look just like Nissans and Kias a regular gas saver car they are good everywhere except design. It’s too simple looking and bland the design is outdated but reliability is unmatched. You know it’s bad when Genesis has totally obliterated and surpassed you in design as a luxury car. Genesis had the same bland regular look like Lexus with unreliability on top of that and now they actually look like a luxurious brand. Now reliability still plagues their name but as of late I’ve heard nothing but good from the new generation of Genesis vehicles with the new designs. Lexus just needs to really revamp their design of this outdated design with a more slick, sporty, slightly aggressive design like getting rid of that massive front end design it’s needs a change the lines of the car are good but slightly raise the inside lining of the roof for a little more head room I cramp up in the backseat with my head and new headlights. Lexus needs a new design all together for a new generation the design is done

[@andybub45]

@@redhunnid5142 not sure how you think the IS design is bland.

[@davidpavlich8939]

@@redhunnid5142 And in the end, it's still a Kia.

[@jonmcclane7433]

Yea I think the Lexus looks are top notch and best in class. I guess if you like a Genesis, that’s cool, they look nice and are fast, but I think the IS350 F Sport is a great looking car.

[@bryanmorrison387]

In mid June I purchase a new Lexus IS350 F-Sport. My car includes the Mark Levinson sound package(which is amazing by the way), a sunroof, the wider 10.3 inch touch screen, the stainless steel exhaust and the panoramic view parking assist. I got lucky when one arrived on the lot, I took what I could get. I probably would not have order the premium sound system but since I have enjoyed it for a week now, it is one of my favorite things about the car. I agree with you about the seats, they are very comfortable. I am also in line with your thinking about the quickness and handling. It is fairly quick but not a speed demon and it handles well. It is a sporty luxury sedan that is reliable fun car to drive that will not break the bank after 5 or 7 years of ownership. I will say, I got the Infrared color; with the black rims and black trim, this car is very attractive. After a week, I absolutely love this car and I look forward to driving it around. I am not going blow any sports cars off the road but it is pretty quick. If I was going for shear speed I would have chosen another car and another brand. I intend to enjoy this car for 10 years or so and I think it is just the right blend for me. Cheers

[@bryanmorrison387]

I wanted to add, I think you did a quality, honest review for this vehicle and I do not disagree with any points you made.

[@DownshiftPass]

Thanks for watching and nice purchase you got there! Also, yes, this isn't a bad car at all, and after living with it, I'm sure more people would actually choose it over some of the competition!

[@welkeen273]

I just bought my own Lexus IS 350 F-Sport with the same exact design as you are and yes I absolutely agree with every single point that you point out on this car. Absolutely loving it!

[@aaronpowell4625]

Thanks for the candid feedback

[@DownshiftPass]

My job here is done! LOL, thanks for watching!

[@andybub45]

When my ES gets to 200,000 miles hopefully I will be able to get one of these. The IS is a gem of a car.

[@friskokid7225]

I have this car and I totally agree with your assessment! Great review 👏

[@DownshiftPass]

Thank you, and thanks for watching!

[@joeortiz1618]

Awesome review…it has sporty features with more emphasis on Lexus comfort, you broke it down really well….thank you for that.

[@DownshiftPass]

Thank You and thank you so much for watching!!

[@cking3200]

Awesome review just came across your link I am owner of 2013 IS350 The new body styles are very nice Lexus just keeps making their cars better and better and the keyword is reliable . The F sport badge brings in the muscle look out of this car. Keep up the hard work. 🤝

[@DownshiftPass]

It's definitely quite the looker for certain! Although the interior needs to be updated

[@cloudypac]

Great review, thanks.

[@DownshiftPass]

Thank You and Thanks for watching!

[@midnightserenade611]

Great review

[@DownshiftPass]

Thank you so much, and thanks for watching!! The Night Drive of the video just got posted! Be sure to check it out!!

[@DLPTonyATL]

Informed review, thanks! I upgraded from a '16 IS 350 FSport to the '22 IS 500 Premium because I needed more performance. I personally love the interior, it's nice and functional, no need to change it for 'change' sakes. (In my opinion.) You're correct about the transmission, if you want to cruise, leave in auto and let it do it's thing. (In the IS 500, the default setting should be Sport S, because it will shift into 8th gear at lower speeds.) When you're ready to have fun, the car has to remain in manual so you can control the RPMs. Keep it at 4K and the car will be extremely responsive. Of course the gas will evaporate with those shenanigans and I paid $5.28 a gallon here in Atlanta yesterday. ::chuckling::

[@DownshiftPass]

Thanks for watching!! And thats a nice ride you got! How are you liking it ?

[@DLPTonyATL]

@@DownshiftPass Absolutely and totally in love with this car! Got it on March 4th and I already have almost 4K miles, and I work from home! 😁

[@DownshiftPass]

@@DLPTonyATL Haha!! That is awesome!! If you'd be interested in having it featured on my channel, absolutely let me know!!! I'd love to get my hands on one!

[@anonemoose6121]

Great review man, just subbed! Very professional. Been loving my ‘22 IS350

[@DownshiftPass]

Awesome! Thank you so much for that! It's an enjoyable car for sure!

[@Docchucklilchuck]

I have one on order, anything to know? I’m getting cold feet. Considering the M 340i BMW….

[@anonemoose6121]

@@Docchucklilchuck alright sorry in advance for the wall of text haha…so I’ve got the AWD which comes with the 6spd, which has honestly been pretty smooth for daily driving. Debated waiting to order a RWD to get the 8spd, but figured I could use the AWD up where I’m at in New England. The fit and finish on the car is definitely a cut above, and I genuinely believe that it’ll be much more reliable in the long run (I’m coming from a 2014 328i..had a bunch of electronic issues that left a sour taste). I’d recommend watching the Car Care Nut’s video on the IS if you haven’t already seen it, he breaks down the car in depth from a mechanical perspective. But from my ownership experience so far, it’s been awesome and is a much better overall package than my old 328i. Interior is definitely a bit dated, but CarPlay and the new touchscreen make up for it for me. I’ll be honest the m340i is a beast and a much faster car. I won’t say the IS is crazy fast, but it’s definitely quick enough for my daily driving and you can for sure hoon it a little. And you don’t see a lot of them where I’m at, which I personally like. Get compliments on it almost daily, IMO Lexus killed it with the exterior refresh. Interior is a little tight, but I’m a smaller dude at 5’9” so it’s been perfect for me. The NA V6 was a selling point when I was shopping around, and aside from it being thirsty, I’ve really enjoyed it even though the power train is dated. But yeah that’s what I’ve got for now, let me know if you have any other questions on the car/ownership experience. I’ll do my best to get you an answer if I can!

[@anonemoose6121]

@@Docchucklilchuck also forgot to add, the lane tracing and adaptive cruise both work pretty well if you care about driver assistance stuff

[@gmo709]

Reallly nice vehicle. I will need to go back a few yrs though. $$. Good review. Informative AH.

[@travissleighter8651]

I agree the color on that car is amazing!!

[@DownshiftPass]

Stunning! Pictures nor videos does it justice!

[@2fourth]

you explained it so well

[@DownshiftPass]

Thank You so much and thanks for watching!!

[@PreparationdobleH]

Honest review 👌

[@DownshiftPass]

Thanks for watching! Be sure to subscribe if you haven't for more content!!

[@SoleDreamzAndLexoticj]

great review i own one and love it, also in atlanta

[@DownshiftPass]

It's a great car!! Shout out ATL! That is home!

[@Danikalma1]

Great video. I have a 2017 WRX and just purchased the Is:350. I could definitely feel the difference in power while test driving the Lexus . Can you tell me your thoughts on the two , comparatively? Thank you !

[@DownshiftPass]

2 totally different vehicles for 2 totally different demographics. Both to me are middle of the heap for their respective categories, but neither are bad buys at all

[@marciehunter6038]

Coming from a 2014 is 250 f sport, I'm excited for the upgrades...my only issue is finally choosing a color!

[@DownshiftPass]

This blue would be a BEAUTIFUL option!!

[@tf2funnyclips74]

Just got a 2023 is350- no performance package and no upgraded sound system. The sound system is a MUST- this 10 speaker premium is lacking for a 50k car. Aside from that it handles like a cloud- can't imagine what it would be like with that extra sport + mode. Anyhow- this car is a SPORTY luxury sedan. It is no longer a sport sedan like the 2 IS. It is not very fast. Even if it was tuned with 20 more horsepower it would make a difference. But 311 HP on a car that is almost 2 tons, well- its a bit lack luster. The F sport comes standard with a cold air intake so that's off the table and the ECU has not been cracked yet for a tune. I would have gone with the IS500 if it wasn't for the 20K mark up my California dealers are charging. Overall the car has super and I mean SUPER aggressive styling and is so comfortable to drive. But if you are not concerned with long term ownership and reliability, and want something that throws you back in your seat- this car is not for you. I don't see the complaints with the infotainment or technology aspect of the car- but I am coming from a 2IS. Personally I think this car is a great choice if speed is not your main priority. It is a quick head turner and a DREAM to drive on Cali roads. And if you have been to California that says something. TLDR- GET THE UPGRADED SOUND SYSTEM AND THE PREFORMANCE PACKAGE- IF SPEEFD IS YOUR NEED GET THE IS500 AND SPEND THE 20K ON MARKUP. Much love Lexus Family

[@DownshiftPass]

Spoken so well !!!

[@abhisheknauduri7013]

I am in California as well. This is the car that I'm going for right now. Any tips or recommendations? I currently own a Toyota Corolla LE so definitely an upgrade in every aspect

[@tf2funnyclips74]

@@abhisheknauduri7013 Just want I mentioned. That sound system and dynamic handling package. You want that limited slip diff in the back as well at 17 speakers instead of 10.

[@sonyman316]

Perfect review I own 2023 IS350 its good but if you want more power then you will have to go for IS 500 F SPORT Version when I went to the showroom at st Louis munganast they didn't let me test drive the IS 500 because it belongs to the dealership owner

[@DownshiftPass]

The 500 is a beast!

[@coachfive9656]

I just purchased a 2022 cloudburst gray and absolutely love it , thanks for the honest review

[@DownshiftPass]

Enjoy it

[@katrinahagger4873]

Wait ...it has a self drive mode? Where do you activate it ? Duly noted on you saying it is not that well. I'm thinking about purchasing this vehicle before the year ends. I may go ahead and pull the trigger?

[@DownshiftPass]

It's more of a lane mitigation system, not a full on self driving. It's activated on the steering wheel! I say pull the trigger!!! It's a pretty solid automobile!

[@timothylaw4744]

I was just approved for the 2022 IS 350 F Sport Cloudburst Grey. I hear the complaints about the lack of punch but I think its enough and I like your comments on the balance and handling, I'm getting it, except I'm getting the AWD for the snow.

[@DownshiftPass]

You're going to love it!

[@PreparationdobleH]

I got the atomic gray. The blue is bad ass color

[@DownshiftPass]

The grey is AWESOME!! But yes, this blue is a stunner!

[@abhisheknauduri7013]

This is the car I'm going for right now. Exactly the same color and features. Is that Grecian Water? It looks absolutely amazing! I do want the 2023 version so have you noticed any differences between the 2022 and 2023?

[@DownshiftPass]

It is! The color is truly stunning!

[@abhisheknauduri7013]

@DownshiftPass I ended up getting the 2023 IS 350 F Sport in Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 with white interior in June. Absolutely stunning and sexy. Can't get enough of it lol

[@DownshiftPass]

@abhisheknauduri7013 nice spec!! Congrats!!

[@lynnnabors4709]

love the car but no 360 cam or heads up display??? great review

[@DownshiftPass]

Missing quite a bit for sure!

[@speedkingatl]

Do you have the navigation system one? Your screen seems smaller

[@DownshiftPass]

This one does not oddly

[@FoolClanz]

You should try the 2007-2011 toyota camry se V6!

[@DownshiftPass]

I'll have to get my hands on one!

[@JonathanTorres-so4qq]

I am in the process of getting one. My biggest issues is the back seat. I have a 8 year old son and I am not sure if he will have enough room.

[@DownshiftPass]

It'll be a tighter squeeze for adults, but for the younger kiddos, I think you'll be alright for a few years!

[@johnmartinez5472]

i have this car and it’s very reliable, it has enough power so i don’t understand why people hate on lexus….no comparison to genesis which i wouldn’t want nor the acura tlx which looks cheap in the inside…..it’s my 7th lexus

[@DownshiftPass]

It's a solid one

[@jash3023]

I think id get this car and drive it as a beautiful daily driver until it dies. Which most likely wouldn't be until the 300k+ mark. Then i'd keep it and slowly start turning it into a JDM monster. The design is the best in the segment I think. Imagine pulling a 2023 Lexus IS 350 out of your garage in 2043 when everything else is electric or small, fuel efficient gas powered and your 2023 IS is 2JZ swapped, manual, completely empty except for a roll cage and a bucket seat up front. Ready to unleash terror on the back roads. also 0:51 You get an LED turn signal if you opt for the LED Triple Beam Headlight package but you still get a standard bulb for the rear blinkers even with that package.

[@DownshiftPass]

Ahhhh good info!!

[@DodgerBlueRobert]

"This car has been out since about 2011 without any major refreshes in the interior." That's incorrect. The 3rd gen came out in 2013 for the 2014 model year.

[@tesla.technology]

make reviews on all Lexus cars I only love Lexus cars no other car.

[@DownshiftPass]

I'll try and get my hands on more!!

[@jamesdepalma5253]

Great review. Nice but not great car. Going from a CT5-V to this would give up a lot torque and hp. Love the looks though.

[@DownshiftPass]

Totally agree!!

[@c.varela]

I'm kinda sad that they stopped selling the IS in my country (Brazil), the only sedan available is the ES. 😢

[@DownshiftPass]

That's sad!

[@sponge619]

Damn the cd player

[@lmvks]

The car looks great on the outside but Lexus definitely needs to update the inside. I'm not a fan of the touchpad or the older looking design. Anyways, great review!

[@jhonnydrop7100]

You don't have to use the touchpad, it's a touchscreen too. But I could definitely use some ambient lighting at least!

[@DownshiftPass]

Totally agree!! Thanks for watching!

[@DownshiftPass]

At minimum!

[@allantruong7031]

@@jhonnydrop7100 but again, do you want an extra 100,000+ more miles or ambient lighting?

[@chadnature81]

they really need to update on the moonroof to a panoramic roof. IS never thought about panoramic are what.

[@DownshiftPass]

This car, while nice, could use a complete overhaul at this point tbh

[@cmack9411]

It's NICE, but it ain't a AUDI😉! Great review!

[@DownshiftPass]

True that! Doesn't even compare tbh! Germans do it best! Thanks for watching!

[@canalesivany]

Audi 😂 trash!

[@cmack9411]

@@canalesivany another man's "trash" is another's treasure 🤑

[@canalesivany]

@@cmack9411 totally agree with you

[@jakely5323]

Is white interior hard to clean?

[@DownshiftPass]

It was a press unit, so I don't know

[@rook3364]

There is one video a dude time the 0-60 for the Lexus he got 5.2-5.3 seconds each launch it is faster then what Lexus says and it do feel so because it is smooth that’s the only reason Lexus Is always like that even the sport trim models

[@DownshiftPass]

I can see that

[@rook3364]

@@DownshiftPass I have one myself it’s a good car the power is right there but the gearing sucks, that’s the only down side of Lexus, Toyota is known for lazy gearing, and high RPM instead of mid torque to get going

[@DownshiftPass]

Agreed!

[@xelatonivs8691]

Love my is350 except for the white interior and the gas mileage.

[@cagada]

Too bad you have to get a higher trim level to get the wide 10. something inch screen.

[@DownshiftPass]

That is pretty unfortunate, especially considering you can get it standard in other cars

[@TheSAScousins]

No memory seating??

[@DownshiftPass]

Not a piece of it! smh.

[@robsnow2099]

I would love one of these, but the interior is very dated. The exterior is beautiful. But a CD player and all those old looking buttons, straight out the Corolla. Infotainment is also blahhhh like Infiniti. The radar control being in the L is amazing. The genesis need to adopt that styling vs that big plastic part in the front of the grill. 5 star review!

[@DownshiftPass]

I'm with you! The exterior updates are marvelous, but the interior is sad. :-( Thanks so much for watching!!

[@jayczyzyk9707]

The new tlx is better performer than the is

[@DownshiftPass]

I would agree, and better looking!

[@tommythompson3953]

it’s not a larger engine, just different tune

[@digginglow]

I own a 2020 Acura tlx v6 I think Acura failed big time. It’s beautiful car but trans and steering and suspension is a joke

[@DownshiftPass]

Totally agree!

[@Chidoro41]

As far as I can tell, newer Acura’s aren’t terribly reliable. Certainly not IS reliable. Obviously, one takes a lot more chances than the other.

[@DownshiftPass]

True!

[@MrPiapple]

That screen is the key reason I don't wanna buy it now. Before it is because I cannot afford it.

[@DownshiftPass]

The screen could definitely use some updating!

[@tesla.technology]

BMW garbage and Mercedes garbage car's and more powerful but unreliable

[@DownshiftPass]

haha

[@glaizamarievlogs4979]

I agreez had both bmw and mercedes. Mercedes is okay never really had issue but bmw i had two 535 sucks and a 335i stick shift it was a lemon i won the case. Always had issues not ver reliable car.

[@glaizamarievlogs4979]

I just got my is 350 fsport yesterday red exterior and white interior. I love it. When i see mercedes and bmw on the road its too common.

[@4evertej7]

It'd be ok for a family of 5 on an average height of 5.5 feet, lol

[@DownshiftPass]

You think so ?!? LOL

[@blackzacc]

So basically a rwd Camry

[@DownshiftPass]

Haha! I guess you could call it that!