Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD vs BMW M5 Competition AWD

The BMW M5 Competition AWD emerged in late 2018 as part of the F90 generation, marking a significant evolution in performance and luxury within the sports sedan segment. This trim enhances the standard M5 with a formidable increase in output to 617 horsepower, allowing for an impressive 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds. Several performance upgrades characterize the M5 Competition, including a 0.3-inch lower ride height, a refined exhaust system, upgraded wheels, and stiffer suspension springs designed to boost handling capabilities. BMW further improved this model with increased front camber for sharper dynamics on the road. Although it is positioned as a high-performance offering, BMW also introduced the M5 CS later, pushing the performance envelope even further.

The Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD debuted amidst a shift in the Lexus lineup, moving away from the iconic IS F V8 offerings. While the third-generation IS grew larger and heavier, Lexus introduced the F Sport trim for the IS 350, which features aggressive styling and aesthetic enhancements without adding performance benefits. Though the F Sport variant incorporates unique elements such as an exclusive limited-slip differential, it is primarily focused on delivering a sportier appearance rather than outright power. The IS 350 F Sport aims to provide an upscale driving experience, reflecting Lexus's commitment to luxury even without a high-output V8 engine.

The BMW M5 Competition AWD utilizes a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels through an advanced all-wheel-drive system. This setup contributes significantly to its blistering acceleration, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds (estimated), showcasing its prowess as a high-performance sedan.

Conversely, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination also features all-wheel drive, but the IS 350 F Sport's acceleration lags behind, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds (estimated). While it provides adequate performance for daily driving, it does not match the extreme capabilities of its BMW counterpart.