2023 Lexus IS 350 & IS 500 Review || Better Than BMW And Mercedes?

2023 Lexus IS 350 and IS 500 review. We review the 2023 Lexus IS 300, IS 350, and IS 500 for reliability, safety, efficiency, and value to see if it is the best luxury sport sedan to buy. We also compare the 2023 BMW 3-Series, 2023 Mercedes C-Class, and 2023 Acura TLX. If you are buying a new sport sedan, make sure to watch this review.
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With over a decade of experience as a professional car buyer and auto consultant, Shari Prymak has helped thousands of consumers with their car buying needs. Car Help Corner provides honest, objective, consumer advice with all aspects of car buying and car ownership. For more professional advice, check out Car Help Canada, become a member, and subscribe!

[@shuyangjin3402]

I have IS500 launch edition for 1 year now, I love this car and will keep her for very long time I wish. I have owned every generation of Lexus IS and LS models, my favorite 3 things of my IS500 are: 1.the looking, 2.the engine(which makes this car very special in 2022😅) 3.the excellent riding quality(I don't need a super fast car, but wanna it be quick and smooth). Very fair and nice review🎉

[@tylerchraston4742]

I have a 2021 RC F Sport. I love it, but I think I'm going back to the IS F Sport for my next car. It's just as good looking and I will have 4 doors again. Either way, Lexus have been the best vehicles I've owned and they have the best customer service.

[@robarchpdx]

Well said... coming from a VERY happy Lexus IS 350 FSPORT owner! Mine is rear-wheel drive with the Dynamic Handling Package and BBS wheels.

[@jasonjames881]

I own the 2022 IS350F sport and would not trade it given how balanced and fun it is to drive.

[@andyadam94]

I have the 2021 IS350F sport and I totally agree with you

[@elusivellama]

I have a 2019 IS350 AWD F-Sport and also would not trade it for any model except a '23+ of the same spec, or an IS500. The Germans (330i, etc) may be half a second faster, but none of them have a NA V6, the quality interior, fit and finish, and made in Japan reliability.

[@Tsond123]

I like the IS 350 and 500. Wish it had at least 1 rear seat power plug/12v/USB, and a pano-roof. The touch screen in the front seat is a good upgrade. The Fsport looks great on the outside.

[@dbased1915]

i just got an is350 f sport this week, i think they would be perfect with around 100 more hp something in between the 3.5 v6 and the 472hp v8 in the 500.

[@Ricky_H]

Love the updated IS design after the face lift. Would love to have one!

[@PreparationdobleH]

I own a 2022 IS 350 and love it.

[@nabilnoujaim9339]

Just purchased the IS 350. I am enjoying it.

[@blu_is500]

Nice and fair review! I’m in it for the long haul and I wanted naturally aspirated, so the IS 500 was an easy choice. You were exactly right, Lexus believes deeply in the Kaizen model, so changes for change-sake will not happen. New subscriber!

[@carhelpcorner]

Thank you!

[@baldygrey2779]

They could definitely update their security, that would definitely not be a change for change's sake.

[@blu_is500]

@@baldygrey2779 I agree.

[@johnmartinez5472]

i have the fsport is 350 and it’s an excellent well made car -zero complaints and it’s usually the best looking car…. because it is a great car!

[@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

[@goyinski]

Great review!! You touch everything and the information is so helpful!

[@MrDuboce]

and .. . Shari is very easy on the eyes.

[@3on4off]

I have a 2022 IS500 and absolutely love it.

[@ociabi]

How is it around turns?

[@3on4off]

@@ociabi it rides like a Lexus in normal mode and in Sport+ mode, it really handles nice.

[@mailboy0973]

Thanks for the review! I just ordered my 2023 IS F350 F sport today. It’ll get here sometimes next week.

[@khaledabdelwahab9455]

Congrats!

[@majood245]

I’m not a Big Lexus fan but this Lexus IS is Good daily driver and better for high school and college students and military guys and kinda stuff. This is cheaper and I think looks very reliable. I suggest the F sport if you want a Best fun daily driver. NOT THE V8. Get a V6 or get a 2.0 Turbocharged Four cylinder (thanks to Lexus they didn’t add the 2.5 non hybrid) and those are best options. I think Lexus they did a good job with this one

[@waheedali2429]

Extremely logical review which i like

[@carhelpcorner]

Thank you!

[@khaledabdelwahab9455]

It's a great car in both the blue and red colours, not sure if I'll get the f-sport series one or series two though!

[@motopilot74]

I have a 2012 camry se v6. Paid it off years ago. Only have 98,400 miles. I really want the IS500, but just don't have the funds to get one. The IS350 has the same 3.5L v6 that's in my camry, only more horsepower (tuning) and rwd or awd vs front wheel drive. But really either of these cars would be a step up for me. Hopefully one day soon I can get a good deal on a used one. The car market right now sucks.

[@sethm10]

Nice summary. The IS (300 or 350 - but not with AWD as I hear the hump next to the gas pedal is a big negative with drivers) and the G70 are on my list.

[@Razorfendown]

I did a test drive on this car recently. Everything was nice about it with the exception of the outdate interior. That turned me off, so I did not get the car. If lexus had updated the interior, I would have that car right now.

[@ricdynasty]

I’m trying to decide between the IS500 and the m340i. Both are excellent cars !

[@carhelpcorner]

Very tough one but personally I'd still go IS500!

[@pedrot1152]

I am at the same boat...any additional thoughts so far?

[@franklinbaez71]

Just bought the IS 300 with AWD - very happy with it. Thanks for the review.

[@khaledabdelwahab9455]

What colour and trim? I'm looking to buy F-sport trim

[@franklinbaez71]

@@khaledabdelwahab9455 Hey Man - my car is Obsidean (which is the lexus black) and is IS300 AWD trim. VERY VERY happy with it since this post - highly recommended esp if you get the Sport model

[@bobwells1517]

This car is built to an exquisitely high level of quality, surpassing anything else within $25k of it's price.

[@roninbushito]

Drove a m340i extensively and I preferred the 500 over it. Plus it’s made 100% in Japan unlike bmw made in Mexico wtf is that I was turned off by that for making it in mx when the car is German and spending over $60k nah. Also the steering is numb and the weighting is artificially heavy on sport the IS has the weighting just right. Also the suspension quality feels better on the 500, the m340i suspension was jarring and all over the place unless u get the adaptive-m suspension. Plus Lexus is more reliable one as I can keep it long term unlike the bmw which is only worth leasing.

[@kengoetz4567]

The IS 350 RWD has an 8-speed auto transmission, not the 6-speed. The 6-speed is only for the AWD version.

[@mswarmie]

Hi Shari, thanks for the video. I was thoroughly impressed by the sexy look of a hot red 2022 Lexus RCF at a Lexus showroom the other day. I was wondering what you would say about the vehicle. Is it as reliable as the other most popular Lexus models like RX? Would you recommend I buy it or stay away from it?😊❤

[@johnmartinez5472]

i have owned lexus for at least 4 leases and i’m keeping my 2021 fsport is350 great vehicle very reliable and fast af too

[@mswarmie]

@@johnmartinez5472 lol. Thanks for sharing.

[@jaytharpe3247]

Lexus was too lazy with this update. I can understand reusing the drivetrain and chassis for reliability but there is no excuse for not updating the interior. They didn’t even add ambient lighting. Also that gauge cluster needs a drastic update as well. This car has three things going for it reliability, exterior style, and the Lexus dealership experience.

[@goahead3995]

Totally agree. 10 years of same outdated interior is not excusable. Especially a Lexus!

[@Natethegreat200c]

You idiots give Lexus the green light for outdated cars when you use the R Word in the same sentence as a luxury car. RELIABILITY. no one gives a shit about reliability when buying a luxury car and it’s been said from a Lexus KZbinr and ex salesman that most are leased! So you’re leasing a old car with old tech so it can last you 3 years ? Only people who benefit from Lexus trash are used buyers. Why on earth are you bringing up reliability in what’s supposed to be a luxury car ? And what do you get when you get reliability? OLD TECH. so since you went your reliability , YA GOT IT. should have gotten a bmw or even a Mercedes.

[@josephpa05]

What would you choose instead?

[@jaytharpe3247]

@@josephpa05 I would probably go with the TLX. I feel as if it’s a good blend of tech, style, reliability, etc. The TLX isn’t great in one particular area but it’s a well rounded car.

[@lostalx]

TLX infotainment has no touchscreen. And it's an FWD biased AWD design...and IS is made in Japan.

[@cavamom]

Sold my 2006 Lexus IS 350 in 2020 with only 43,000 miles. This was during the new car shortage so I couldn't find another IS 350. Bought a Mercedes AMG CLK35 and as soon as the 2024 IS 350's come out, I'm going back. It was simply the best car I've ever had in terms of reliability, service and so very fun to drive. General service on Mercedes is crazy expensive. The first couple of services on my Lexus were all under warranty and cost me nothing. My Mercedes is almost three years old with just 2,500 miles. The very first service cost me $400 and the second, $500.

[@nickthequick]

I am now debating with myself: IS 350 F Sport (RWD because of the 8 speed aut.) or Audi S3; both of them fully equipped.

[@Detris]

Shari, would you pick the IS 500 or the Mustang GT as a fun daily driver?

[@carhelpcorner]

I'd love a manual Mustang GT as a fun car, but I don't think I could daily one anymore, so I'd go IS 500.

[@RobustArid379]

I don’t own any but a highlander and it’s wonderful smooth ride. I want to upgrade dude

[@Thankyou_3]

Hi Shari, great review! The IS is really a gem from Lexus. The only downside of the IS is that it takes premium gas. I guess at this price point the demographics are not concerned about gas mileage. For the record, 5th gen 4Runner cost the same on regular gas to fill up as it does to fill up an IS. $ dollars wise it is identical.

[@MichaelLinterman]

Using premium fuel isn't that big of a deal. Comparing with a 4Runner is funny though, on average the 4Runner would cost you over $600-700 a year more in fuel even using regular vs premium.

[@user-ft7dj4xl5l]

Hi Shari I get it; CP24 wanted fewer viewes, so they cancelled Autoshop. Would like to buy an IS300 AWD F sport 1 in 2023.

[@user-ft7dj4xl5l]

Viewers misspelled

[@goahead3995]

Majority of the fancy brands uses premium gas.

[@manofsesame3024]

The basic fuel is not a big problem for a V6 engine. It is a bigger problem for any turbo engine.

[@ninja777de]

I commented a lot 2 years ago, in June 2021 when I bought the Lexus IS 350 F Sport 3 edition after I tried 19 other cars from Acura, VW, Volvo, Subaru, BMW, Tesla, Mercedes, Audi, Alfa Romeo. It was not the fastest and not with the latest audio stuff...but I choose it for the wonderful balance it gave me and in the right hands (mine :) ) I can take the curves better than all other cars, as I did some rally in another life. I'm speaking at the past mode...because I traded it today...with exactly the same car. Why? Because I was very satisfied and the new one even if it is the same model in 2023, with the same color (Atomic with red interior) has now by default (in Canada) the Mark Levinson system, the panoramic view and the parking assist (more for my wife ;) . I cannot wait until Friday when I'll go for it! The old V6 still rules for me and I cannot stand the faster turbo modern engines …with the evident turbo lag -nor the Tesla where I fell inside like in a box - for the friends that know what I'm talking about. I'm talking for the cars in the same budget I can afford, of course. And, yes, I would like the IS 500 model ...but I'm here where the winters are 6 months :)))

[@pedrot1152]

i am at the same boat....test driving all the other brands and trying to understand if this is the best purchase (IS 350 F Sport with the same package you mentioned) just wondering the experience vs all the other "modern" engines (i am a Mazda lover) and of course reliability is something top of mind VS speed. But at the same time i want to have some fun once in a while, and again, wondering if IS 350 would give me that experience...I've test drove but it was raining so not the greatest experence as you can imagine...i might go back for another test drive but again, wondering your thoughts....As well fuel consumption.... thoughts...?

[@ninja777de]

@@pedrot1152 We have different tastes and different experiences. For me this car is the perfect mix when I compared with the others at the same price range. Is like when you want to listen to classic music, because you are in that mood, or you want to to rock it. In general you cannot have both, but with this one you can. Sometime I just like to enjoy a very smooth ride, to have the guilty pleasure to be with my car. And sometimes I just to be sporty and it is enough, if you want to stay in the roads' limit speeds. Reliability, no question. Price at the garage ? Look at the BMW, Audi, Mercedes - the price for the service is in another league for comparable prices for the cars. Again, this is me, you can choose different.

[@Dave--FkTheDeepstate]

This might be a better choice for some. "The 2023 Audi RS3 Is A Pint-Sized Super Sedan With A Turbo Unicorn Under The Hood" (Redline Reviews) 0-60 in 3.4s, ~$65K

[@JeoIRLx]

Which one would be more reliable and won’t break down?

[@yousef.al-assaf]

The V8 is irreplaceable...

[@ADVShadow]

I have an ISF 350 2022 with all the premium and performance packages, now the dealer is offering an ISF 500 2023 with same packages for $70 dollars more on my monthly payment, should I go for it?

[@johnmartinez5472]

i would ….❤ which dealer?

[@alakkad4207]

I wonder why Lexus doesn't make the is500 in AWD

[@pamc3338]

I want the UX hybrid but what's the difference between 200 and 250? HP?

[@vandez2401]

50 HP. No need to thank me

[@chop3625]

Not better performance or handling but a better DD plus ultra reliable.

[@Dontknowshit]

Just about right on everything, IS 500 all the way, going to buy this car in a few months, just to piss off the environmentalists .

[@Philmoscowitz]

Have you heard any news about availability of the IS 500 in 2023? I've been on a waitlist for one for over 10 months. It doesn't seem like Lexus allocated very many to the US.

[@kennethwong7748]

Really like IS model, but can't afford it

[@tand9854]

2:14 there isn’t a huge performance difference between the IS300 and 350. That is blasphemy!! 😂

[@elusivellama]

Between the IS300 AWD and the IS350, the 0 - 60 are basically the same despite the hp difference. I've tested them both (and own a '19 IS350), they're the same. It's when you get into higher speeds and higher gears that the 350 will outrun the 300 AWD.

[@Shabnation]

@@elusivellamawhich makes the 350 all more worth it . The 3.5 on the 350 is a gem .

[@jamescps8799]

Sexy car, just take my money.

[@goahead3995]

The exterior is beautiful, but that interior is super outdated. Its been same interior since 2014! That's 10 years of same outdated interior!

[@catarsi1445]

It is a good car, but it is not a luxury car at all. It is a midle class car. Far away from luxury.

[@Juanglz1]

I can’t get over the CD player 😂 It’s 2023!

[@Zangetsuichigo1980]

None of them can perform good in the winter get a subaru

[@marcuswalker3959]

I still have my 2017 is 350 and not much has changed with the interior and I can tell you now my my Sonata N Line is a better option than the new IS lineup

[@oshitomaha]

I wish the V6 had more power. Not fun enough for me!

[@Alex1999_3]

is this guy an AI or a real person?

[@cocosloan3748]

You cant get BMW quality and feel ANYWHERE ! Its something else - no car can replicate that,,,

[@clays1507]

I’ve had four BMWs 2012 535 2013 550 2016 640gc 2008 650 The Lexus is better build quality

[@Ab82903]

No not better but more reliable. If u want boring then yes.

[@nbafan3021]

This car would absolutely be the perfect sport sedan had the designer came up with a better design for the rear light. From the back view the car looks hideous, resembles a bulldog’s butt, and for this reason I’ve hesitated to upgrade my 2018 Lexus Is Fsport for it. Other than that, it’s an awesome car.

[@naomid1819]

Not the bulldog butt🤣🤣🤣

[@boston500ful]

I don't like japanese cars. I prefer euro cars more prestige and better performance. Alrhough japanese cars are more reliable. But to each their own !!

[@iKeto_gal]

I prefer to lease euro cars, their reliability goes out the door after a few years... so it's good for guys/girls who keep changing their vehicle every 2 to 3 years like their cell phones

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Other than the reliability I don’t really see the reason to consider this over the Germans. And maybe the price

[@danielbec4287]

Man I have a 2014 bmw, bought 3 years old. I have spent close to 9 thousand dollars in repairs in the last 3 years I wanna hit it against a tree

[@Unplugged704]

@@danielbec4287 That’s exactly why I won’t buy Germans! My brother in-law owns the Benz AMG 63. Something leaked and it cost him like $8000 to fix! Ouch!! I drive 08 IS350.. Runs Great!! And will probably last much longer than any BMW!!

[@roninbushito]

I drove the m340i and it wasn’t that great the 500 was better.

[@Sportstouring]

No thanks. It's already 10 years old.

[@wholeNwon]

Better than BMW and MB? That's a VERY LOW bar.

[@postalpancho]

Highly doubt it. I’ve owned both BMW definitely drives better.

[@ZAR556]

Interior quite underwhelming 😑

[@Doc1855]

Isn’t the IS a rebadged Corolla?

[@matthewalexis]

Doesn't share a thing with the Corolla.

[@Thankyou_3]

Not really, the Corolla is similar to Tercel. The IS is the killer for unreliable BMW, MB, AUDI.

[@billyrock8305]

The Corolla is faster and the fuel economy is 3x better. 💨 ⛽️

[@Thankyou_3]

@@billyrock8305 🤦‍♀️

[@mattmc8391]

@@billyrock8305 🧐🤨

[@AAhmad3449]

Lexus luxury?😂 let alone the is which looks like a 2013 version

[@clays1507]

Love my 2022 IS350AWD best car I’ve ever owned! And I’ve owned BMWs twice expensive