Model Tested: 2018 Lexus IS 300 4-door Sedan
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2017_Lexus_IS_200t_002_8D00E0D1D1202E504E1D8893BC804E9D4410D807-370x247.jpg)
Engine:2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 241 horsepower, 258 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel-drive
EPA Rating: 22-mpg city, 32-mpg highway, 26-mpg combined
Base Price: $38,210
As Tested: $44,184
Performance:
Pretty peppy turbocharged I-4, but the V-6 models are better
Smooth transmission with paddle shifters
Drive modes (on console dial): Eco, Normal, Sport
Separate mode button for Snow
Comfort:
Stretch-out front row legroom at expense of rear seat
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2017_Lexus_IS_200t_005_287A792C2C7E542449FE96E05D8FE13BA4881B17-370x247.jpg)
Comfortable, supportive front seats
Driver power lumbar support
Nice (optional) 3 temperatures heated and ventilated front seats
Wide range power tilt/telescopic steering column (optional)
Thick, nicely contoured leather steering wheel
Lots of auxiliary controls, but button a little small
Oversize dead pedal
Dual HVAC controls with unique touch/slide thermostats
High and wide floor tunnel negates middle seating position
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Utility:
Split (60/40), folding rear seats
Flat seatbacks, but a 7-inch rise from trunk floor
Trunk security feature, but difficult to reach from inside trunk
Trunk space narrow between wheelwells
High lift-over (6-inches)
Trunk capacity on the smaller side
Mouse-style infotainment controller with nice hand rest
Medium size front door bins and console bin
Smallish, locking glovebox filled by owner’s manual
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2017_Lexus_IS_200t_017_686E48CFFE5F351981AF7C7B63F4EEB32DEBC317-370x247.jpg)
No rear seat door bins
WOW Factors:
Athletic chassis, suspension, running gear
Handsome, driver-oriented interior
Excellent front seat legroom
One of the better versions of the polarizing Lexus grille
Whines:
Some of the best features were extra cost options
Overly snug rear seat
Hard to reach security locks on folding rear seats
![](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2017_Lexus_IS_200t_003_95E54BC35E5E9B8EED80F1CE35C4E1645C41CC16-370x247.jpg)
Middle position of rear seat almost unusable
Bottom Line:
The 2018 Lexus IS 300 is the entry level Lexus. As such, it has nice luxury features and quality construction, but could use a little more performance and a lot more rear seating room/amenities. It’s fun to drive and a fine two-person touring vehicle, but for more people or cargo it lacks.
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