JUST LIKE THE GOOD OLD DAYS
In 2024, luxury segment leader Lexus Philippines sold 2,263 units, far surpassing its competitors from Europe. While one may argue that Lexus has the JPEPA advantage, that’s how their amazing products have caught the fancy of local customers.
One such product is the IS 350 F-Sport, a car which my wife described as “feels very old school, like the type of car you will modify, drive on the track or your favorite road and take to hang out with like-minded people”
And I think that’s why, despite being introduced way back in 2013, the IS sports sedan has such a loyal fanbase. It has the formula down pat: a powerful naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine pumping out 312hp and 380 Newton-Meters of torque, driving the limited-slip differential equipped rear axle (a recent addition in 2022 which gives better traction and acceleration, not to mention better cornering prowess and drifting ability) via an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
To put things into comparison, similar sports sedans from European rivals will only come equipped with four-cylinder turbocharged engines which, although they may deliver comparable horsepower and torque, just don’t feel as luxurious and as refined as Toyota’s buttery-smooth narrow-angle 2GR-FSE V6 engine.
While the IS has utilized the older N platform (now superseded by the newer TNGA-L platform for rear and all-wheel executive), it has done a few significant updates along the way: one in 2017, and another one in 2020. The updated styling included larger bodywork, restyled headlamps and full-width taillamps, slightly updated dashboard, and a larger spindle grille design. Android Auto and Apple Carplay were made available, as well as upgraded driver-assistance systems and standard blind-spot monitoring. The suspension has also been revised with a more rigid body for sportier handling with better ride comfort. This, despite riding on sizable and stylish 19-inch staggered wheels with 235/40R19 fronts and 265/35R19 rear Bridgestone S001 performance tires. If this were mine, this will roll on the same diameter 19’s but with slightly wider wheels and chunkier tires in lighter, forged wheels.
Inside, the IS has perforated leather seats with thick aide bolsters and a large 10.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. The digital instrument cluster is similar to that of the V10- powered Lexus LFA Supercar produced between 2010-2012, just before the IS was released and pre-dates all other digital instrument cluster now in vogue for all premium luxury brands. It’s a stylish, chic if somewhat dated but still very cool (and cozy) place to spend time in for sure.
The main concern though, is how does it drive? Of course, it drives like a proper sports sedan: sharp and feelsome steering, a firm yet pliant suspension that moves its weight around like a boxer, strong brakes to match the powerful engine and looks that ooze Japan vibes. It looks exactly like the type of car you’d see in Japan’s bustling Shibuya district or stylish Harajuku, rolling down trendy Omotesando Avenue, slammed to the ground with a gently rumbling exhaust and massive aftermarket wheels. That’s EXACTLY the vibe.
Or, it looks perfectly at home in Daikoku Parking area taking a break after cruising at speed on the Tokyo’s C1 loop late at night with your crew. The IS350 F-Sport invites you to drive, relive and relish each moment you have behind the wheel.
Locally, the infamous Marilaque Highway or our local race tracks will be perfect stomping grounds for the IS 350 F-Sport as much as the BGC or Ayala Center entertainment districts.
Sure, it’s practical. The boot has a useful 450 liters, there’s a plethora of safety equipment (ABS-EBD brakes, traction / stability control and a full suite of ADAS equipment), but the rear seats are cramped. The thirsty V6 gets you a tick under 5km/liter in the city, while highway driving nets closer to 11.5 or so km/liter at a hare-like 85-90kph. Of course, that sonorous V6 loves to rev so good luck repeating that efficiency figure! But really, you bought the IS 350 F-Sport because it’s a real hoot to drive, futuristically stylish. It’s a car that puts driving pleasure above practicality in my book. Which is fine. Lexus makes so many excellent crossover SUVs but they haven’t forgotten something for keen drivers. You’ll love this for the daily drive as much as weekend runs. And in a world obsessed with electrification and disposable “fast” motoring, we NEED a car that reminds us why we fell in love with them in the first place. Just like the good old days.
