2021 Lexus IS 300: Everything You Need to Know

If Lexus had its way, you wouldn’t think too hard about the 2021 Lexus IS 300. The automaker’s media push surrounding the latest changes to its perennial compact sport sedan would have you believe a new fascia, revised tail, upgraded touchscreen, and behind-the-scenes chassis work constitute an all-new ground-up redesign — not a midcycle refresh.

But make no mistake: the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a significantly updated car, and in many ways, it punches well above its weight class.

This in-depth 2021 Lexus IS 300 review covers everything from ancient powertrains to surprisingly modern performance, interior packaging quirks, the latest infotainment tech, safety features, and the ultimate verdict: should you buy the 2021 Lexus IS 300?

Also Read: How To Use the 2023 Lexus IS 300 Complete Feature Guide

Short Answer About 2021 Lexus IS 300

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a compact luxury sedan known for its refined ride, quality interior, and strong reliability.

It offers a 3.5L six‑cylinder engine with responsive performance, modern tech features like an eight‑inch touchscreen display with smartphone integration, and comfortable amenities such as heated seats and push‑button start.

With proper care, Lexus models like the IS 300 can deliver strong long‑term value and durability.

2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD: Powertrain Overview

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD carries one of the more distinctive powertrain setups in the compact sport sedan segment. Under the hood sits a 3.5-liter V6 — the same engine that powers the IS 350 — but detuned to 260 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque to align with the rear-wheel-drive IS 300’s 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 that makes 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Engine options at a glance:

• IS 300 RWD: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 — 241 hp / 258 lb-ft torque, 8-speed automatic
• IS 300 AWD: 3.5-liter V6 — 260 hp / 236 lb-ft torque, six-speed automatic
• IS 350 RWD: 3.5-liter V6 — 311 hp / 280 lb-ft torque, eight-speed automatic

The IS 300 AWD uses a six-speed automatic transmission rather than the eight-speed found in other IS models — a deliberate Lexus choice to balance performance and economy for this specific powertrain configuration. Paddle shifters come standard, letting drivers work through the gears manually when the mood strikes.

Also Read: 2023 Lexus ES 350 Colors: How to Pick the Perfect Shade

2021 Lexus IS 300 Performance: 0-60 mph, Quarter-Mile & More

The numbers tell an interesting story. Despite carrying 51 hp and 34 lb-ft less than the IS 350, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD sprints from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and covers the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds — matching the rear-wheel-drive IS 350 F Sport to 60 mph and finishing just 0.1 second behind in the quarter-mile.

The IS 300 RWD with the turbocharged I-4 is notably slower, with a 0-60 time of 6.9 seconds, making it the least potent option in the 2021 Lexus IS lineup. How does the IS 300 AWD hold its own? The all-wheel drive system provides a clear traction advantage below 20 mph, effectively masking what appears to be a conservative power rating.

In real-world acceleration tests, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD keeps pace with the BMW 330i xDrive and the rear-wheel-drive Mercedes-Benz C300 — both equipped with torque-rich turbocharged four-cylinders and sharper automatic transmissions.

Also Read: How to Improve the 2022 Lexus ES 350 0-60 Acceleration

The V6’s power delivery is predictably peaky compared to modern turbo-fours, requiring high revs when wringing it out. However, the six-speed automatic offers smooth shifts during everyday driving and responds willingly in manual mode via the gear shifter or wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Model	Engine	Power	0-60 mph
IS 300 RWD	2.0L Turbo I-4	241 hp / 258 lb-ft	6.9 sec
IS 300 AWD	3.5L V6	260 hp / 236 lb-ft	5.7 sec
IS 350 RWD	3.5L V6	311 hp / 280 lb-ft	5.7 sec

2021 Lexus IS 300 Handling & Chassis: The Real Story

Handling is where the 2021 Lexus IS 300 truly shines — and surprises. Lexus performed extensive chassis work on the Toyota New N platform (whose roots trace back to 2005), stiffening the body structure with extra reinforcement at the radiator side supports, additional weld points for the front-side-member, and reworked C-pillars and roof sections.

Suspension upgrades were equally significant. New coil springs are 20 percent lighter than those on the prior IS, while new aluminum A-arms represent an 18 percent weight reduction over the old steel components. Toyota’s swing-valve shocks — designed to improve ride comfort and rebound control — round out the lower unsprung weight package.

The result on a figure-eight test loop: 25.9 seconds at an average of 0.70 g. That beats the BMW 330i xDrive by 0.7 second and 0.04 g, and outperforms the Alfa Romeo Giulia Q4 by 0.8 second and 0.04 g. On the skidpad, the IS 300 AWD posts a 0.88-g average — trailing the BMW’s 0.91-g average but clearly ahead of the Alfa Romeo’s 0.84-g average.

Also Read: How To Understand 2024 Lexus ES 350 Engine the Right Way

Road test editor notes: “Really comes off the corner very well, and with the all-wheel drive, you can just flatfoot it. The steering weight is nice, and the balance on the skidpad is tremendous. The pedal is a bit squishy, so it’s hard to know how far off the brake pedal you need to be while trail-braking.”

2021 Lexus IS 300: Brake Performance & Stability Control

Brake performance in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD impressed during rigorous canyon road testing. Brake fade was notably absent even after multiple laps through tight mountain roads. With traction control off but stability control active, the IS 300 AWD’s brakes held up remarkably well.

The best 60-0-mph stopping distance recorded was 117 feet — average for the segment, but consistent and dependable.

The IS 300 AWD’s traction control system stands out for not being overly aggressive. Many competitors’ stability and traction control systems overheat the brakes when pushed hard on roads like those in the Santa Monica Mountains near Malibu — the IS 300 AWD avoided this issue entirely during testing.

2021 Lexus IS 300 Interior: Design, Quality & Packaging

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 interior received meaningful updates alongside its exterior refresh. The redesigned dashboard features circular HVAC vents and a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display mounted prominently atop the center stack.

Traditional touches remain — including an analog clock and the gear shifter for the six-speed or eight-speed automatic. The Glazed Caramel interior color scheme paired with the Grecian Water exterior makes for a visually striking combination.

Interior quality is strong, with available Nappa leather seating, a Mark Levinson premium audio system, and heated and ventilated front seats (via the $1,950 Comfort Package on IS 300 models). Two USB ports sit beneath the center armrest. Notably absent: wireless charging — increasingly standard in this segment.

AWD driveline hump — the big caveat: The IS 300 AWD’s power-takeoff unit creates a large, rounded hump on the driver’s side of the center transmission tunnel. For drivers over 5’11”, this intrudes noticeably into the footwell, forcing the right leg to angle slightly left. This is a legitimate comfort concern and a potential deal-breaker for taller drivers.

Also Read: How to Maintain Your Lexus ES 350 Houston at Service Center

Rear seat passengers face limited accommodations. Legroom and headroom are adequate but not generous. Back-seat riders get two center vents but no door pockets, heated seats, USB ports, or — notably — cupholders.

2021 Lexus IS 300 Exterior: Styling Refresh & F Sport

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 exterior styling updates are evolutionary rather than revolutionary. Lexus kept the signature spindle grille and retained the checkmark LED running lights — now integrated directly into the headlights rather than running beneath them into the front bumper.

The most dramatic visual change is at the rear, where redesigned LED taillights give the IS a more distinctive profile. Triple-beam LED headlights are available as a $1,250 option. For buyers wanting a more aggressive look, the F Sport trim adds sportier front and rear bumpers and new 19-inch wheels.

The F Sport Dynamic Handling Package ($4,200 for AWD, $3,800 for RWD models) takes things further, adding BBS wheels, specially-tuned adaptive suspension, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and additional drive modes — bringing the IS 300 much closer to the spirit of the legendary IS F.

2021 Lexus IS 300 Infotainment, Tech & Connectivity

The biggest quality-of-life upgrade in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is the move to a touchscreen-operated infotainment system. The 10.3-inch screen replaces the frustrating touchpad interface as the primary input method — a long-overdue change welcomed by virtually everyone who struggled with the old system.

Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration all come standard. The optional Mark Levinson sound system remains a standout feature in this class.

2021 Lexus IS 300 Safety: Lexus Safety System 2.5+

Lexus Safety System 2.5+ comes standard on every 2021 Lexus IS 300, making it one of the most comprehensively equipped luxury sport sedans in its class for active safety features. The full suite includes:

• Automatic pre-collision braking and steering assist with pedestrian detection
• Lane departure alert and lane tracing assist
• Automatic high-beams and road sign assist
• Dynamic all-speed cruise control
• Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

This comprehensive standard safety package gives the 2021 IS 300 a meaningful advantage over some European rivals that charge extra for equivalent features.

Also Read: How To Fill Up a Lexus ES 350 Gas Tank Size the 2026

2021 Lexus IS 300 vs. Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 competes directly with the BMW 330i xDrive, Mercedes-Benz C300, and Alfa Romeo Giulia Q4 in the compact luxury sport sedan segment.

vs. BMW 330i xDrive: The IS 300 AWD matches or beats the Bimmer in figure-eight testing — faster by 0.7 second and 0.04 g. The BMW edges ahead in 0-60 mph time and skidpad grip (0.91 g vs. 0.88 g), and its infotainment system remains class-leading.

vs. Mercedes-Benz C300: A close fight on performance numbers. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD trails slightly in straight-line speed but outperforms in dynamic handling. The Lexus wins on standard safety tech and long-term reliability reputation.

vs. Alfa Romeo Giulia Q4: A genuine surprise — the IS 300 AWD beats the Giulia Q4 by 0.8 second and 0.04 g on the figure-eight and outguns it on the skidpad (0.88 g vs. 0.84 g). The Alfa has the emotional edge; the Lexus is the more consistent performer.

2021 Lexus IS 300 Fuel Economy & Efficiency

Fuel efficiency in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 varies significantly by powertrain. The base IS 300 with the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 and eight-speed automatic achieves 25 mpg combined — the most fuel-efficient option in the lineup.

The IS 300 AWD with the 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic trades some efficiency for all-weather capability and stronger real-world performance. Drive modes — including Sport mode and Eco mode — allow drivers to tailor the car’s behavior and fuel consumption to their needs.

My Final Thoughts:

The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a car of genuine contradictions. Its powertrains feel dated — particularly the V6/six-speed combination in the AWD model — yet it posts performance numbers competitive with fresher European rivals. Its Toyota New N platform traces roots back to 2005, yet the revised chassis, lighter aluminum A-arms, new coil springs, and swing-valve shocks deliver handling that genuinely embarrasses the Alfa Romeo Giulia Q4 and pushes the BMW 330i xDrive hard.

The move to a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa support addresses the single most common owner complaint about prior IS models. Standard Lexus Safety System 2.5+ is among the most comprehensive safety packages in this class.

Where the 2021 IS 300 falls short is in technology leadership and interior packaging. The Europeans — especially BMW — have pulled ahead with next-generation infotainment and more driver-centric cockpit designs. The AWD driveline hump remains a real comfort issue for taller drivers, and rear-seat amenities are basic at best.

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