2023 Lexus IS Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The Lexus IS gets some new special packages for 2023, plus updated styling on its newer F Sport variant.

The 2023 Lexus IS combines the refinement of larger Lexus sedans with an added dose of athleticism in a sporty compact sedan. The IS lineup runs the gamut from modern luxury to thrilling performance in the form of the IS 500 F Sport.

What’s New for the 2023 Lexus IS

In 2021, the IS received refreshed styling, and in 2022, it gained the IS 500 F Sport. For 2023, the IS receives some new special packages, as well as updated styling for the F Sport model.

Design

The new-for-2023 Appearance Package is optional on the Lexus IS F Sport. This limited-edition (just 150 units) package features black accents inside and out, as well as black wheels. The IS 500 F Sport features a raised roof as well as quad-stacked exhaust outlets.

Powertrain

The model and naming conventions for the Lexus IS are a bit confusing, so pay close attention: The IS 300 comes with a 241-horsepower four-cylinder engine, sending power to the rear wheels. The IS 300 AWD swaps out the four-cylinder engine for a 260-hp V6 and, obviously, makes it all-wheel-drive. The IS 350 comes with a 311-horsepower V6, and the range-topping IS 500 F Sport features a 427-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine. The latter can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. All versions route power through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Interior

The Lexus IS comes standard with dual-zone automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, push-button start, power-adjustable front seats, and synthetic leather upholstery. The Comfort package adds heated and ventilated front seats, a power moonroof, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The F Sport trim adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a heated steering wheel, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The IS comes standard with 10.8 cubic feet of trunk space.

Technology

The standard infotainment system in the 2023 Lexus IS is confusing to operate, consisting of a remote touchpad in the center console that manages an 8.8-inch digital display. Luckily, the available upgraded infotainment setup (Navigation/Mark Levinson Premium Audio Package) swaps out the confusing setup for a straightforward 10.3-inch touchscreen. Both setups come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The package also adds a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo system.

Safety

The Lexus Safety System suite of driver-assistance features comes standard on the 2023 IS. It includes automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance, pedestrian and cyclist detection, traffic-sign recognition, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Available safety tech includes a 360-degree parking camera system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and front and rear parking sensors.

Pricing

As of this writing, the base MSRP for the 2023 Lexus IS is listed at $40,895. Selecting AWD adds $2,000 to the price. The F Sport starts at $45,310. The IS 500 F Sport Performance starts at $58,670, and the range-topping IS 500 F Sport Performance Premium starts at $63,170. The Lexus IS is backed by a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

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