2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD: Review, Specs, And More
Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD. If you're in the market for a sleek, sporty sedan that handles like a dream in all weather conditions, this car might just be your perfect match. We're going to cover everything from its performance and design to its interior features and overall driving experience. So buckle up and let’s get started!
Overview of the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD
The 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD is Lexus's answer to the demand for a compact, luxurious sports sedan that doesn't compromise on performance or style. As part of the IS lineup, the F Sport variant kicks things up a notch with sport-tuned suspension, unique styling cues, and enhanced interior features. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system ensures that you're ready to tackle various road conditions, making it a practical choice for those living in areas with unpredictable weather.
This model year refines the already sharp design of the IS series, incorporating subtle yet impactful changes that enhance its aggressive stance. The F Sport package adds distinctive touches like a mesh grille, rear spoiler, and unique badging, setting it apart from the standard IS 300. Inside, you'll find sport seats, aluminum pedals, and a driver-focused cockpit designed to elevate your driving experience.
Under the hood, the IS 300 F Sport AWD packs a turbocharged engine that delivers a balance of power and efficiency. The AWD system provides added confidence, especially when accelerating from a standstill or navigating slippery surfaces. Overall, the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD aims to deliver a thrilling driving experience wrapped in a luxurious and sophisticated package. Whether you're cruising through city streets or tackling winding roads, this sedan is designed to impress.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance and handling, the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD truly shines. The heart of this beast is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, which churns out a respectable 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While it might not be the most powerful engine in its class, it provides more than enough grunt for everyday driving and spirited weekend jaunts.
The engine is paired with a smooth and responsive six-speed automatic transmission, which delivers power to all four wheels via Lexus's advanced All-Wheel Drive system. This AWD system isn't just for show; it actively monitors road conditions and distributes torque between the front and rear axles to maximize traction and stability. Whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or just some loose gravel, the IS 300 F Sport AWD inspires confidence.
One of the standout features of the F Sport variant is its sport-tuned suspension. This upgrade includes stiffer springs, revised dampers, and thicker sway bars, all of which contribute to improved handling and reduced body roll. The result is a sedan that feels planted and responsive in corners, with precise steering that allows you to carve through turns with ease. The F Sport also features unique performance-inspired instrumentation and pedals, adding to the sporty feel.
The driving experience is further enhanced by the Drive Mode Select system, which allows you to choose between different driving modes to suit your preferences. Eco mode prioritizes fuel efficiency, while Sport mode sharpens throttle response and firms up the steering for a more engaging drive. There's also a Normal mode for everyday driving, which strikes a balance between comfort and performance. All in all, the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD offers a compelling blend of power, handling, and all-weather capability.
Exterior Design and Features
The 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD boasts a striking exterior design that perfectly blends elegance with aggression. From its bold spindle grille to its sharp lines and sculpted curves, this sedan commands attention wherever it goes. The F Sport package adds several unique styling cues that further enhance its sporty appeal, making it a true head-turner.
At the front, the F Sport features a distinctive mesh grille with a black finish, which gives it a more menacing look compared to the standard IS 300. The headlights are sleek and angular, with integrated LED daytime running lights that add to its modern aesthetic. The front bumper is also unique to the F Sport, with larger air intakes and a more aggressive splitter.
Moving along the sides, you'll notice the sporty side skirts and unique alloy wheels, which are exclusive to the F Sport model. The wheels are typically finished in a dark gray or black color, which complements the overall design. The side mirrors are also painted in a contrasting color, adding to the visual appeal.
At the rear, the F Sport features a subtle rear spoiler, which improves aerodynamics and adds a touch of sportiness. The taillights are sleek and wrap around the corners of the car, with LED lighting for enhanced visibility. The rear bumper is also unique to the F Sport, with integrated diffuser elements and dual exhaust outlets.
Other notable exterior features include automatic LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a power sunroof. The overall design of the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD is both eye-catching and functional, making it a standout in its class. Whether you're parked on the street or cruising down the highway, this sedan is sure to make a statement.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD, you're greeted by a cabin that's both luxurious and driver-focused. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail, creating a comfortable and inviting space for both driver and passengers. The F Sport package adds unique touches that enhance the sporty feel, making it a joy to spend time in.
The seats are one of the highlights of the interior, with bolstered sport seats that provide excellent support and comfort. These seats are typically upholstered in leather or a combination of leather and synthetic materials, with contrast stitching and F Sport badging. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, with lumbar support for added comfort on long drives.
The dashboard is well-designed and intuitive, with a large touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system. The system includes features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation, making it easy to stay connected on the go. The F Sport also features a unique instrument cluster with performance-inspired graphics and displays.
Other notable interior features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a rearview camera. The F Sport also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to keep you and your passengers safe and secure on the road.
Overall, the interior of the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD is a comfortable and technologically advanced space that's perfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Whether you're driving alone or with passengers, you'll appreciate the attention to detail and the high-quality materials used throughout the cabin.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
When it comes to safety, the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD is packed with features designed to protect you and your passengers. Lexus has always prioritized safety, and this model is no exception, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies that enhance both safety and convenience.
Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. But the IS 300 F Sport AWD goes above and beyond with its advanced driver-assistance systems. These systems use cameras, radar, and sensors to monitor the vehicle's surroundings and provide alerts or interventions to help prevent accidents.
One of the key features is the Lexus Safety System+, which includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. The pre-collision system can detect potential collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians and automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid the impact. Lane departure alert warns you if you start to drift out of your lane and can even provide steering assistance to help you stay on course.
Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. This feature is especially useful on long highway drives, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety.
Other available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots, while rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Parking assist helps you navigate tight parking spots with ease, using sensors to detect obstacles and provide guidance.
The 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD has also earned high marks in crash tests, further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. With its comprehensive suite of safety features and strong crash-test performance, you can drive with confidence knowing that you're well-protected.
Pros and Cons
Before you make a decision, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD:
Pros:
- All-Weather Capability: The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability in various road conditions.
- Sporty Handling: The sport-tuned suspension and precise steering make it a joy to drive on winding roads.
- Stylish Design: The exterior is both elegant and aggressive, with unique F Sport styling cues.
- Luxurious Interior: The cabin is crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail.
- Advanced Safety Features: The Lexus Safety System+ provides a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies.
Cons:
- Engine Power: The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine may not be as powerful as some competitors.
- Infotainment System: The infotainment system can be a bit clunky and not as intuitive as some rivals.
- Rear Seat Space: The rear seats can be a bit cramped for taller passengers.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is decent but not class-leading.
Final Verdict
So, what’s the final verdict on the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD? Overall, it’s a well-rounded sports sedan that offers a compelling blend of performance, style, and luxury. The AWD system makes it a practical choice for those living in areas with challenging weather conditions, while the sport-tuned suspension and precise steering make it a blast to drive on twisty roads.
The exterior design is eye-catching and distinctive, with unique F Sport styling cues that set it apart from the competition. The interior is comfortable and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a range of advanced features.
While the engine power may not be as impressive as some rivals, it still provides more than enough grunt for everyday driving. The infotainment system could use some improvement, and the rear seats may be a bit cramped for taller passengers.
However, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the overall strengths of the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD. If you’re looking for a stylish, sporty, and capable sedan that can handle all weather conditions, this car is definitely worth considering.
Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or simply looking for a reliable and enjoyable daily driver, the 2022 Lexus IS 300 F Sport AWD is sure to impress. It's a car that's equally at home on the open road as it is navigating city streets, making it a versatile and practical choice for a wide range of drivers. Happy driving, folks!