I still remember the first time I slid behind the wheel of the 2015 Lexus IS350 F Sport. The scent of premium leather filled the cabin, and my fingers naturally found their way to the thick, perforated steering wheel. As someone who's tested countless vehicles over the years, I can confidently say this particular model represents one of Lexus's most successful attempts at blending luxury with genuine sportiness. What makes the IS350 F Sport truly special isn't just its impressive specifications—it's how all those elements come together to create an experience that feels both refined and thrilling.
When you examine the performance numbers, the 2015 IS350 F Sport doesn't disappoint. Under that sculpted hood lies a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Now, I've driven competitors like the BMW 335i, and while they're certainly impressive, there's something about the Lexus power delivery that feels more linear and predictable. The 0-60 mph sprint takes just 5.6 seconds, which might not sound earth-shattering by today's standards, but back in 2015, this placed it firmly among the top performers in its class. What surprised me most during my testing was how the eight-speed automatic transmission managed to be both smooth in daily driving and lightning-fast when pushed hard. The paddle shifters provided crisp, immediate responses that made backroad driving an absolute joy. I particularly enjoyed how the exhaust note deepened in Sport S+ mode without becoming obnoxious—a delicate balance that many manufacturers struggle to achieve.
The F Sport package transforms the driving experience beyond just straight-line performance. Lexus fitted this model with adaptive variable suspension that automatically adjusts damping force based on road conditions and driving style. During a week-long test that included everything from highway commuting to winding mountain roads, I found the suspension struck a near-perfect balance between comfort and control. The steering deserves special mention too—it's electrically assisted but maintains excellent feedback, something that's becoming increasingly rare in modern luxury sedans. I remember taking it through some tight corners and being impressed by how communicative the steering was, allowing me to place the car exactly where I wanted with millimeter precision. The upgraded brakes with their striking two-piece rotors provided consistent stopping power even during aggressive driving, with virtually no fade even after repeated hard use.
Inside the cabin, the IS350 F Sport continues to impress with its blend of technology and luxury. The standard 10-way power-adjustable sport seats provided exceptional support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable enough for long journeys. I particularly appreciated the aluminum pedals and F Sport badging throughout the cabin—these might seem like small touches, but they really enhance the sporty atmosphere. The 15-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system remains one of the best I've experienced in any vehicle at this price point, delivering crystal-clear sound that makes even mundane commutes enjoyable. My only real complaint with the interior was the infotainment system—the remote touch interface felt somewhat dated even back in 2015, requiring more attention to operate than modern systems.
From a practical standpoint, the 2015 IS350 F Sport offers reasonable fuel economy for its performance level, achieving around 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway during my testing. The trunk space measures 13.8 cubic feet, which is adequate for a sports sedan though not class-leading. What impressed me most about daily driving this car was how easily it transitioned from comfortable cruiser to backroad warrior. I recall one particular drive where I started the day with a relaxed highway journey, switched to Sport mode for some winding roads in the afternoon, and finished with a comfortable evening cruise—the car adapted perfectly to each scenario without ever feeling out of its element.
Looking back at the 2015 IS350 F Sport from today's perspective, it's clear this model represented a significant step forward for Lexus in the competitive luxury sports sedan segment. While newer models have since surpassed it in terms of technology and efficiency, there's a purity to the driving experience that still feels relevant. The build quality remains exceptional—even after several years and thousands of miles, the interior materials showed minimal wear and everything still felt tightly assembled. For enthusiasts who want luxury without sacrificing driving engagement, the 2015 IS350 F Sport continues to represent an compelling option on the used market. It's that rare vehicle that manages to be both practical enough for daily use and thrilling enough to put a smile on your face every time you find an interesting stretch of road.
