2007 Lexus IS 350

Chasing the Competition

The Lexus IS 350 is quick, and a sporty new X Package of optional trim and equipment helps Â? but it's still no BMW 3 Series.

The Lexus IS 350 is part of a broadened assault on the venerable BMW 3 Series.

The IS 350 and its less-powerful sibling, the IS 250, were completely redesigned for the 2006 model year. The European-flavored Lexus sedan rides on a longer wheelbase with a lowered stance than the somewhat lackluster model it replaced. It also got a more-attractive exterior, with muscular styling cues borrowed from the larger Lexus GS sedans.

Despite the improvements to the IS 350, the 3 Series still leads the pack in this segment.

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That said, the IS 350 has several things going for it, including an added degree of interior comfort, additional standard and optional features, and parent Toyota Motor’s reputation for long-term reliability.

Updates to the Lexus IS 350 include a so-called X Package of optional trim and equipment, designed to enhance the car’s looks and its handling. The package includes a stiffer, sport-tuned suspension, alloy pedals, illuminated scuff plates, a lower front-lip spoiler and alloy wheels.

The IS 350 comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates just above 300 hp. This is about 50 percent more than the V6 engine in the IS 250, and it is on par with the BMW 335i. The IS 250 and the 3 Series can be fitted with a manual transmission, but the only available gearbox for the IS 350 is a six-speed automatic that can be shifted manually with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The IS 350 strikes a balance between ride comfort and cornering abilities that will appeal to more-casual motorists. Enthusiasts, on the other hand, will prefer the X Package.

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A sophisticated Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system intelligently operates and coordinates the car’s Vehicle Stability Control, traction control and antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution systems for improved performance and control. A cutoff switch is newly included for the VDIM and stability systems to afford more-aggressive cornering and to help the vehicle free itself from a snowed-in parking space.

Lexus IS 350 Vehicle Summary

The Lexus IS 350 has a fairly comfortable and stylish interior, with large, backlit gauges and a tasteful application of metallic trim. It’s also relatively quiet, thanks to extra attention paid to reducing wind and road noise. Backseat room is at a premium, but no more so than most other models in the compact class. Front knee, side and side-curtain airbags are standard. An optional Pre-Collision System, tied into the adaptive cruise control, anticipates when a crash is imminent and reacts accordingly, tightening the front seat belts and pre-initializing the brake assist function for full stopping power.

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Standard features include Smart Access keyless entry with push-button start. Options include Dynamic Cruise Control (its laser guidance can maintain both a set speed and distance from the traffic ahead); an upscale Mark Levinson audio system; and Park Assist front and rear proximity warnings. Adaptive lighting, where the beam of light from the headlights pivots to light the way through curves, is available as a stand-alone option.