2021 Lexus IS 300: How to Maintain Your 2026
Introducthion:
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a luxury compact sedan crafted by Lexus, the premium automotive division of Toyota, one of the world’s most trusted Japanese automotive manufacturers. Designed to deliver an exceptional blend of performance.
Comfort, and refinement, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 represents the latest evolution of the IS lineup — a nameplate that has long served as an entry point into the Lexus luxury experience for drivers who demand more from their daily drive.
With its sharper, more athletic exterior styling, upgraded interior technology, and a choice of two capable powertrain options, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 positions itself as a serious contender in the competitive luxury sedan segment.
Whether you opt for the standard 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 241 horsepower or upgrade to the all-wheel drive variant powered by a silky smooth 3.5-liter V6 delivering 260 horsepower, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 offers a driving experience that is both engaging and deeply refined.
Inside, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 welcomes you with premium NuLuxe perforated faux-leather trim, a 10.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen, touch-sensitive climate controls, and the option of an extraordinary 17-speaker, 1800-watt Mark Levinson.
Premium Surround Sound Audio System — all combining to create a cabin that feels genuinely luxurious at every turn. The available Comfort Package further elevates the experience with heated and cooled seats that make every commute feel first-class.
On the road, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 impresses with its confident handling, compliant ride quality, and a sophisticated double-wishbone front and multi-link rear independent suspension setup that strikes an ideal balance between sportiness and everyday comfort.
Advanced safety features including Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control give drivers added peace of mind on every journey.
Priced from $41,000 and certified as a ULEV III Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 delivers outstanding value in the luxury compact sedan segment — proving that premium driving experiences don’t always require a premium price tag.
For anyone seeking a luxury sedan that combines Japanese reliability, refined performance, and modern technology in one beautifully designed package, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a compelling choice worth every moment of consideration.
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2021 Lexus IS 300: The Ultimate Guide to Performance, Features, and Luxury Value
If you’re in the market for a luxury sedan that delivers an exceptional blend of style, comfort, and performance, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 deserves your full attention. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 has been carefully refined to offer everything a modern luxury driver could want — from a powerful engine to a beautifully crafted interior, advanced safety features, and a price point that genuinely competes with the best in its class.
Whether you’re commuting through a major metropolitan area or cruising open highways, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 makes every drive feel special. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the 2021 Lexus IS 300, from its engine and performance to its interior luxury, safety technology, handling dynamics, and overall value.
Why the 2021 Lexus IS 300 Stands Out in the Luxury Sedan Segment
The luxury compact sedan segment is fiercely competitive, and the 2021 Lexus IS 300 enters that competition with confidence. As a Japanese luxury brand with decades of reputation for reliability, refinement, and value, Lexus has used a slow-and-steady approach to gradually improve the IS lineup over the years.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a perfect example of that philosophy — it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it refines and elevates every aspect of the driving experience in a meaningful way. From its sharper exterior styling to its upgraded interior controls and more advanced driver assistance technology, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 signals that this Japanese luxury brand is more serious than ever about competing in the luxury compact sedan space.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 serves as an introduction to the Lexus brand for many buyers, and it does an excellent job proving that Japanese luxury can match — and often surpass — European counterparts when it comes to refinement, comfort, and overall value for money. If you’ve been comparing luxury sedans and wondering whether the 2021 Lexus IS 300 belongs on your shortlist, the answer is a resounding yes.
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Exterior Design: Athletic, Refined, and Eye-Catching
One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is how good it looks. Lexus made several important exterior updates for the 2021 model year, and the result is a sedan that looks noticeably more refined and athletic than its predecessor.
Gone are the overly busy front bumper, the melty rear tail lights, and the awkward rear three-quarter angle that divided opinion in previous generations. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 replaces all of that with cleaner, sharper lines and a more cohesive overall design.
The spindle grille, which has been a defining element of Lexus design language for years, looks better than ever on the 2021 Lexus IS 300. Many enthusiasts who were unsure about the direction of Lexus grille design in recent years have come around on this latest iteration — it strikes the right balance between bold and restrained.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 also sits approximately 30mm wider and slightly lower than the previous generation, giving it a more planted, sporty stance that communicates performance even when it’s standing still.
Available in a range of colors including the stunning Grecian Water blue paint at no additional cost, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 can truly turn heads. That particular shade of blue shimmers beautifully under direct sunlight and manages to stand out in a noticeable yet tasteful way. It perfectly highlights the athletic styling that defines the 2021 Lexus IS 300 exterior.
Optional Triple Beam LED headlights, available for $1,250, add a premium visual element to the front end while also significantly improving nighttime visibility. The overall impression is of a sedan that doesn’t look bulbous or heavy, but rather trim and athletic — exactly what a luxury sport sedan should look like.
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Interior: Where Luxury Meets Modern Technology
Step inside the 2021 Lexus IS 300 and you’re immediately welcomed by a cabin that blends classic Lexus luxury cues with thoughtful modern upgrades. The interior of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 retains beloved Lexus staples like the center analogue clock and the quintessential.
Trackpad interface, while adding meaningful improvements such as better-feeling controls, touch-sensitive climate controls, and a large 10.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen that brings the infotainment experience firmly into the modern era.
The optional Glazed Caramel perforated NuLuxe faux-leather trim covers multiple surfaces throughout the cabin of the 2021 Lexus IS 300, giving the interior a rich, premium feel that rivals far more expensive vehicles.
The material is supple and pleasant to the touch, and it’s used extensively across the seats, door panels, and other contact points throughout the cabin. Every surface feels intentional, well-made, and worthy of the luxury badge on the hood.
When equipped with the Comfort Package — a $1,950 option — the 2021 Lexus IS 300 adds heated and cooled seats that transform long commutes into first-class experiences. The seating position in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is sporty yet relaxed, with higher door sills and excellent adjustability in the front seats.
While it’s not the most tall-person-friendly interior on the market, the reclined driving position offers excellent visibility and a very comfortable long-distance driving posture. The cabin does an excellent job of cutting off the outside world, creating a relaxed, easy-going atmosphere that is perfectly suited to commuter driving in dense urban environments like the Los Angeles Basin.
Rear passenger room in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is decent, though headroom in the back can be limiting for taller passengers. Frontal visibility and seat comfort in the rear are excellent, however, and the angled rear windshield creates a pleasant greenhouse effect that makes the rear cabin feel less claustrophobic than the dimensions might suggest.
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The Mark Levinson Sound System: An Acoustic Masterpiece
No discussion of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 interior would be complete without talking about the optional Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System. Available as part of the Navigation with Mark Levinson package for $2,750, this 17-speaker, 1800-watt audio system is genuinely exceptional.
The Mark Levinson sound system in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 delivers rich, detailed, immersive sound that fills the cabin with ease. The volume cranks to impressive levels without distortion, and at lower volumes, the clarity and soundstage are remarkable.
For music lovers who spend significant time behind the wheel, the Mark Levinson audio system alone could be reason enough to choose the 2021 Lexus IS 300 over its competitors.
Engine and Performance: Power That Satisfies
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is available in two distinct powertrain configurations depending on whether you opt for rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The standard 2021 Lexus IS 300 comes equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing.
An impressive 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, available across a broad rpm range of 1,650 to 4,400 rpm. This configuration is responsive, efficient, and well-suited to everyday driving.
Drivers who upgrade to the 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD variant receive a more characterful 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 260 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 4,800 rpm. While those numbers might seem modest compared to turbocharged European rivals, the naturally aspirated V6 delivers its power in a uniquely satisfying way.
The torque curve is strong and linear, and the engine revs freely all the way to redline with a wonderful engine growl that adds genuine drama and excitement to spirited driving.
In the 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD, these power figures are good for a 0-60 time of approximately 6 seconds — quick enough to merge confidently onto highways, accelerate away from traffic lights with gusto, and deliver a sense of performance that matches the car’s athletic styling.
What’s perhaps most impressive is how refined the engine feels throughout the rev range. The naturally aspirated V6 in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is as silky smooth at idle as it is when approaching redline, with very little vibration and virtually no coarseness at any point in the powerband.
The six-speed automatic transmission in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 shifts adequately and doesn’t feel laggy or uninspiring in the way that some older conventional automatics have in previous Lexus models. That said, it does lack the sharp precision and satisfying snappiness you’ll find in some rival luxury automatics.
It’s a perfectly capable gearbox for everyday driving and comfort-oriented motoring, but enthusiasts seeking the last word in transmission responsiveness may find themselves wanting more. Every 2021 Lexus IS 300 is also certified as an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV III), meaning you can enjoy the performance with a slightly cleaner conscience.
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Handling and Ride Quality: Confidence in Every Corner
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD proves itself to be a genuinely capable handler in real-world driving conditions. The all-wheel drive system puts in serious work when the road demands it — set the 2021 Lexus IS 300 to Sport mode, apply full throttle through.
A fast corner, and the drivetrain manages the power beautifully, maintaining grip without a peep from the tires. Body roll is surprisingly limited for a comfort-oriented sedan, and the grip levels are impressive.
Steering in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is light and lacks direct road feel, but the ratio is well-judged and makes the car very maneuverable in urban environments. Combined with the AWD system’s prodigious grip, the light steering actually works.
Well for spirited one-handed corner entry on on-ramps and fast sweeping turns. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 inspires real confidence in corners, and its handling balance is far more engaging than its comfort-focused positioning might suggest.
Much of the credit for the 2021 Lexus IS 300’s impressive dynamic balance goes to its suspension setup. Double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear independent suspension give the 2021 Lexus IS 300 a solid foundation for both ride comfort and cornering ability.
This is a sophisticated setup that punches above its price class, and the results are evident in the way the car rides and handles. Ride quality is comfortable, confident, solid, and compliant rather than soft and disconnected — a balance that makes the 2021 Lexus IS 300 equally at home on smooth boulevards and slightly rougher urban streets.
The tire specification also contributes positively to the 2021 Lexus IS 300’s ride quality. The 235/45/18 all-around tire fitment gives a generous amount of sidewall compared to what you’ll find on some rival luxury sedans that run lower-profile rubber. More sidewall means better bump absorption and a more comfortable ride, and the 2021 Lexus IS 300 benefits noticeably from this more sensible approach to tire sizing.
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Safety Features: Keeping You Protected on Every Drive
Safety is a top priority for any new vehicle purchase, and the 2021 Lexus IS 300 takes this responsibility seriously. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety technologies designed to give drivers an extra set of eyes on the road at all times.
Standard safety features on the 2021 Lexus IS 300 include Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist, and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also included and perform excellently in real-world conditions, providing clear, timely warnings when vehicles enter your blind spots or cross behind you while reversing.
Optional safety upgrades for the 2021 Lexus IS 300 include Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Braking and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking, which add further layers of protection in low-speed parking scenarios. These features make the 2021 Lexus IS 300 a well-rounded safety package, particularly for city driving where tight parking spaces and heavy traffic demand constant attention.
It’s worth noting that while the driver assistance technology in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is comprehensive, the highway-focused systems like Lane Tracing Assist and Radar Cruise Control are not quite at the level of refinement found in some competitors.
The radar cruise control can feel slightly hesitant when managing following distance at highway speeds, and lane tracing can drift between lane edges rather than confidently holding the center line. These are areas where the 2021 Lexus IS 300 has room to grow, but they don’t significantly diminish the overall safety package, which remains thorough and reassuring.
Pricing and Value: A Genuine Luxury Bargain
One of the strongest arguments in favor of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is its exceptional value proposition. Base pricing for the 2021 Lexus IS 300 starts at $41,000, which already positions it as a competitive option in the luxury compact sedan segment.
When you add desirable options like Triple Beam LED headlights ($1,250), the Navigation with Mark Levinson sound system package ($2,750), the Comfort Package with heated and cooled seats ($1,950), and delivery ($1,025), the all-in price of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 AWD comes to $47,975.
For under $50,000, you receive a fully-loaded luxury sedan with a premium audio system, advanced safety features, a powerful V6 engine, all-wheel drive capability, and a beautifully appointed interior. That represents genuine value in a segment where competitors can easily exceed $55,000 or more with similar equipment.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 proves that luxury doesn’t have to mean excessive spending. The Lexus finance center makes it straightforward to finance your 2021 Lexus IS 300 regardless of your budget, ensuring that this remarkable luxury sedan is accessible to a wider range of buyers.
Maintenance and Ownership: Built to Last
Owning a 2021 Lexus IS 300 means investing in a vehicle known for long-term reliability and low ownership costs. Lexus has built its reputation on producing vehicles that require relatively little unscheduled maintenance, and the 2021 Lexus IS 300 continues that tradition.
Regular maintenance services such as oil changes and brake pad replacements keep the 2021 Lexus IS 300 performing at its best for years to come, and the Lexus service center makes scheduling and completing these services straightforward and hassle-free.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 ULEV III certification also means that ownership is more environmentally responsible than many comparable vehicles in its class, giving conscientious buyers another reason to feel good about their purchase decision.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 vs. The Competition
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is specifically designed and priced to compete in the luxury compact sedan space. At its price point and with its combination of features, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 stands out as a vehicle that delivers more luxury per dollar than many of its rivals.
Its combination of a naturally aspirated V6 with smooth power delivery, a sophisticated double-wishbone and multi-link suspension setup, a genuinely impressive Mark Levinson audio system, and a beautifully trimmed NuLuxe interior makes the 2021 Lexus IS 300 a compelling package that deserves serious consideration from any luxury sedan shopper.
Where the 2021 Lexus IS 300 may trail some competitors is in the area of driver assistance technology refinement and transmission sharpness, but these are relatively minor criticisms in the context of an otherwise very well-rounded package. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 more than compensates with its interior quality, engine character, ride comfort, and overall value.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2021 Lexus IS 300?
After examining every aspect of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 in detail, the verdict is clear: the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a great luxury sedan and an outstanding value. It handles and rides with confidence, delivers satisfying performance from both its 2.0-liter inline-4 and 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Options, looks significantly better than the previous generation thanks to its sharper exterior styling and refined Lexus design language, and offers a genuinely luxurious interior experience — especially when optioned with the Comfort Package, Mark Levinson sound system, and NuLuxe perforated leather trim.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 proves that Japanese luxury engineering continues to deliver exceptional results at a price point that makes the ownership experience feel like genuine value rather than compromise.
Whether you’re drawn to the 2021 Lexus IS 300 for its athletic styling, its silky smooth naturally aspirated V6, its spectacular Mark Levinson audio, or simply its reputation for long-term reliability and low running costs, this is a sedan that rewards careful consideration.
If you’re ready to experience the 2021 Lexus IS 300 for yourself, visit your local Lexus dealership today to schedule a test drive.
Once you’re behind the wheel of the 2021 Lexus IS 300, we’re confident you’ll understand exactly why this remarkable luxury sedan continues to earn the admiration of drivers and critics alike. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is not just a car — it’s a statement about what luxury driving should feel like every single day.
Final Thoughts:
After exploring every detail of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 — from its athletic exterior styling to its refined interior luxury, powerful engine options, confident handling dynamics, and comprehensive safety technology — one thing becomes absolutely clear: the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is a luxury compact sedan that genuinely delivers on every promise it makes.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is not a vehicle that tries to dazzle you with flashy gimmicks or over-the-top features. Instead, it takes a measured, thoughtful approach to luxury — refining and improving every aspect of the driving experience in ways that matter most to real-world drivers.
The silky smooth naturally aspirated V6 engine, the supple NuLuxe perforated leather interior, the breathtaking Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system, the sophisticated double-wishbone and multi-link independent suspension, and the sharper, more athletic exterior design all come together to create something genuinely special in the 2021 Lexus IS 300.
From a value perspective, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 is arguably one of the smartest purchases you can make in the luxury compact sedan segment today. Starting at just $41,000 and delivering a fully-loaded experience for under $50,000, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 proves that Japanese luxury engineering is fully capable of punching above its weight class.
The combination of long-term reliability, low ownership costs, ULEV III emission certification, and a genuinely premium driving experience makes the 2021 Lexus IS 300 an exceptionally well-rounded ownership proposition.
Yes, the driver assistance technology in the 2021 Lexus IS 300 has some room for improvement, and the six-speed automatic transmission could benefit from sharper, more precise shifts. But these are minor criticisms when weighed against the enormous strengths of the 2021 Lexus IS 300 as a complete package. No vehicle is perfect, and the 2021 Lexus IS 300 comes closer to perfection than most at its price point.
Whether you are a first-time Lexus buyer discovering the brand through the 2021 Lexus IS 300, or a returning Lexus enthusiast upgrading to the latest model, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 will not disappoint.
It rewards its driver with comfort, confidence, and character in equal measure — day after day, mile after mile. The 2021 Lexus IS 300 is more than just a luxury sedan. It is a daily reminder that driving can and should be a genuinely pleasurable experience, and that Japanese luxury at its finest is something truly worth celebrating.
FAQs:
IS the Lexus IS 300 and 350 the same?
The difference between the Lexus IS 300 and IS 350 is mainly in performance and number of configurations. When comparing the Lexus IS 300 vs IS 350, it is important to understand that both models belong to the same Lexus IS lineup, yet they offer distinctly different driving experiences based on their engine options and available configurations.
IS the 2021 Lexus ES300 reliable?
As a whole, consumers found the 2021 Lexus ES vehicle’s reliability and quality to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. This clear pattern in 2021 Lexus ES consumer reviews tells an important story about what this luxury sedan does exceptionally well and where it leaves some buyers wanting more.
IS the Lexus IS 300h a reliable car?
The IS 300h itself was placed 11th out of 75 cars, and like all the Japanese manufacturer’s products scored excellent marks for reliability. This Lexus IS 300h ranking is a powerful testament to the engineering excellence and long term reliability that the Lexus IS 300h delivers as a luxury sedan in the real world.
Why is the Lexus IS 300 so popular?
Take a step up to the 3.5 liter six-cylinder model and you jump to 312hp and a feisty 377Nm of torque, which is more than enough to tackle long highway journeys or everyday commutes with equal ease. This engine upgrade to the 3.5 liter V6 represents a significant and meaningful step forward in performance for drivers who demand more power, more torque, and a more engaging driving experience from their luxury sedan.
How much is a 2021 Lexus is 300 worth?
According to the Edmunds Appraisal Report, 2021 Lexus IS 300 trade-in prices range from $21,576 to $28,376, driven per year, with no color or options selected. This 2021 Lexus IS 300 trade-in value range provides an important baseline for owners who are considering trading in their 2021 Lexus IS 300 and want to understand the current market value of their vehicle before entering into any trade-in negotiation with a dealership.
I’m M Ahmad Ansari, a Lexus enthusiast with 5+ years of hands-on experience across the entire lineup—from the RC F’s roaring V8 to the whisper-quiet RZ electric. I understand what separates Japanese luxury from the rest: obsessive engineering, unmatched reliability, and that refined driving feel you can’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s F Sport performance packages, hybrid technology, or choosing between new and certified models, I bring real-world knowledge and genuine passion for what makes Lexus exceptional.
