2011 Lexus IS350

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Lexus IS350

It seems that there's a Lexus IS model to fit a variety of tastes. The 2011 Lexus IS 350 would be the hot salsa version, slotting in between mild and extra-spicy versions. With 306 horsepower on tap from its smooth 3.5-liter V6, the IS 350 delivers enough power to satisfy most of those looking for a sport sedan. By comparison, the less powerful IS 250 is bland and the ultra-performance IS F is too harsh for general consumption. Within the IS line, the 350 is certainly our favorite.

Drivers of every persuasion should appreciate the IS sedan's stylish exterior and the luxurious cabin with its top-notch materials and solid build quality. This year's F Sport package option livens up the IS 350's handling and also further enhances the minor face-lift that the IS receives for 2011. This is also the first year that you can get all-wheel drive with the IS 350, which will no doubt be attractive to drivers who live in harsher climes.

However, the Lexus IS 350 does have some shortcomings. Among these, the limited rear seat space is probably the most significant, as the lack of legroom makes the rear quarters acceptable only for kids. The performance-minded buyer will also find the IS 350 to be a bit of a disappointment considering the car's uncommunicative steering and slow-witted automatic transmission.

This leaves the 2011 Lexus IS 350 as a somewhat compromised choice, since it's neither sporty enough nor practical enough to compete head-to-head with some other models within its market segment of entry-level sport sedans. The Audi A4, Cadillac CTS and Mercedes C-Class are just as sporty to drive, but are more spacious. The BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G37, meanwhile, are wholly more fun to drive than the IS. But if you're smitten with the styling of the IS 350 and value the refined impression that every Lexus makes, the IS 350 is a respectable choice with just enough spice to keep things interesting.

INTERIOR

Up to five occupants fit inside the IS 350, though the backseat is tight. Bright electroluminescent instruments light up the dashboard. Black and silver metallic trim is standard, and wood trim is available. The optional navigation system's voice-recognition software picks up casual-language commands, and the standard audio system has a USB port to better integrate iPods or other MP3 players. Lexus' Enform service, included with the navigation system, can assist in finding street addresses, restaurants and more. It comes with a year's service free; after that, you have to pay a monthly subscription fee. Interior features include:

10-way power front seats

Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents

Power moonroof

Manual tilt/telescoping steering wheel (powered version optional)

13-speaker stereo with USB input for portable music players

Optional ventilated front seats

Optional dynamic radar cruise control

Optional navigation system

EXTERIOR

Lexus says the latest IS bears a strong resemblance to its larger GS sedans. A long wheelbase and wide stance help give the IS 350 a muscular appearance. The IS 350 ranks as a compact car. An optional Sport Package includes a sport suspension and 18-inch wheels with grippier summer tires. 

The sedan gets a new grille and front bumper and standard high-intensity-discharge headlights, headlight washers and LED daytime running lights. A new optional F Sport Package for the sedan includes a sport suspension, 18-inch wheels and front and rear spoilers, plus available Ultrasonic Blue paint. Exterior features include:

Standard 17-inch alloy wheels

Optional 18-inch alloy wheels

Optional rain-sensing wipers

Optional backup camera with front and rear parking sensors

ENGINE

The 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, spewing some 306 horsepower at 6,400 rpm along with 277 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm, thanks to its high compression ratio of 11.8:1, variable valve timing and direct injection. The IS 350 comes exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels.


Aside from its larger displacement compared to the IS 250, the IS 250's 3.5-liter V6 also differs in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, optimizing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds.


Fuel economy, as estimated by the EPA, is 18 mpg in the city cycle and 25 mpg on the highway.

SAFETY

Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, brake assist, traction and stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and Safety Connect. The latter is a traditional telematics service with automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and emergency assistance button.

In Edmunds brake testing, the 2011 Lexus IS 350 with the Sport package came to a stop from 60 mph in a short 114 feet.

In government crash testing, the IS 350 managed four stars (out of a possible five) in frontal impacts for the driver and front passenger as well as side impacts for rear passengers. Driver side-impact protection garnered five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the IS 350 a perfect "Good" rating for its performance in both frontal-offset and side-impact tests.

reference:http://www.edmunds.com,http://www.leftlanenews.com,http://www.cars.com