2022 Lexus IS Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The Lexus IS is a mid-size Japanese Sports Sedan that brims with brave design and imaginative technology. The IS in Lexus IS stands for "Intelligent Sport." True to its name, the Lexus IS transcends its precursors in every way and captivates the hearts of younger drivers who seek a sporty, intelligent ride.

The luxurious sports sedan flaunts a provocative silhouette that was brought to life by the Japanese 'Omotenashi' principle - where every detail is meticulously crafted for ultimate comfort. Merging leading edge design with finesse, the IS lineup is now available in three engines.

Looking from the outside, the Lexus IS model flaunts a bold angular, athletic silhouette that is simply captivating and luxurious. Beneath the surface, the IS is bestowed with advanced technology such as dual-zone climate control, NuLuxe upholstery, Bi-LED headlights, power-adjustable seats, and the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5. Such phenomenal features on the Lexus IS offer sporty young motorists the most evocative, imaginative and thrilling experience yet.

A comprehensive comparison of the 2022 Lexus IS trims has been performed below so you can decide which trim is the ideal choice for you.

Compare the 300 vs 300 AWD. What is the difference?

While comparing and contrasting the two trims, the major difference to observe is that one is an AWD while the other is a RWD. The 300 AWD is an all-wheel-drive. The 300, the base trim, is rear-wheel drive.

Correspondingly, their engines are also different. A 2.0 liter Turbo Inline-4 Gas powers the 300 RWD, while the 300 AWD by a 3.5 liter V6 Gas engine.

The IS 300’s 2.0-liter engine is accompanied by an eight-speed adaptive transmission control which helps determine the most expedient gear for every driving situation. Calculated to generate 241 horsepower, the robust four-cylinder also delivers 258 lb.-ft. of torque across a range of 1,650 rpm to 4,400 rpm. The engine switches between the Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles with an innovatory Variable Valve Timing Intelligent Wide system (VVTi-W). With an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission, the IT 300 incorporates a groundbreaking G-force Artificial Intelligence system that tracks multiple performance parameters to calculate the prime gear selection.

Talking about the IS 300 AWD, the sedan is operated by a 3.5-liter V6, giving 260 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. The AWD is designed to boost traction and grip by varying front-to-rear torque distribution automatically. On dry roads, it maintains a 30:70 front-to-rear torque split for optimum performance; however, in special circumstances it can push as much as 50% power to the front wheels.

The average fuel economy of the Lexus IS 300 is 21 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway, which is taken to be strong for a sedan of this size and stature. As fore-mentioned, the engine is complemented with an eight-speed automatic transmission that is equipped with paddle shifters. In under 7 seconds, the saloon effortlessly gains a speed of 60 mph from a stand still point.

Conversely, the 300 AWD proffers an estimated fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. A six-speed paddle-shift transmission complements the 3.5L V6 Gas engine of the 300 AWD. The speedy beast goes from 0 to 60 mph in the blink of an eye - a mere 6.1 seconds.

Considering the exteriors of these models, we can't spot much differences, and their aggressive looks are identical at a glance. Riding on 18-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels, the sedan effortlessly brings a resilient and imposing image on the road.

Both trims flaunt a provocative contour, LED tail lamps and Bi-LED headlamps. 19-inch wheels are available for upgrade, as well as premium triple-beam LED headlamps and auto-tilt side mirrors.

Moving on to the interior, it's evident that both trims have been designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation on the road, no matter where and how long the journey. The cozy bucket seats are blanketed in sophisticated NuLuxe upholstery. Climate control, multi-zone A/C, and power seats for both driver and passengers are standard. Some extra optional features are woodgrain interior trim, sun/moonroof, cooled/heated front seats, heated steering wheel and seat memory.

Lexus has equipped both trims with identical infotainment and safety systems. The driver-focused cabin connects you deeply to your journey with a forward mounted 8-inch touch screen as well as SiriusXM, Satellite Radio, Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and driver-assist technologies. On top of that, navigation, 17-speaker sound systems, and larger touchscreens are available as upgrades for some additional cost.

Compare the 300 AWD vs 350 F Sport Trims.  What is the difference?

Moving up a trim to the 350 F Sport from the 300 AWD, we can immediately spot developments that elevate the vehicle to a new level of performance. Contrary to the 300 AWD, the 350 F Sport's drivetrain system is rear-wheel drive. Consequently, the 350 F Sport proffers a higher fuel economy with 20 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.

Rambunctious drivers who crave to experience maximum power will relish the 350 F Sport. Under the hoods, both trims have the exact same 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 Gas engine; however, the 350 F Sport is complemented by an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission instead of a 6-speed one. Moreover, the 350 F Sport yields 311 horsepower @ 6600 rpm and 280 pound-ft. of peak torque - a tremendous increase from the 260 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque on the AWD 300.

On the road, the 350 F Sport makes an imposing statement with a stunning sleek exterior. The athletic sports sedan is streamlined with bold, impressive lines, angular edges and aesthetic curves. The F Sport brings you some additional exterior aesthetics, such as 19-inch alloy wheels with a split-five-spoke design finished in your choice of dark metallic or matte black.

The provocative design of F Sport has been enhanced in several ways to look extra aggressive. As muscular fenders extend to enhance the 19-inch wheels, its blacked-out grill surround, rocker moldings, bumpers, and rear spoiler emanate an even more ferocious look than what's seen on the 300 AWD.

Besides exterior aesthetics, comfort levels in the cabin also move up a notch and heightens with the Lexus IS 350 F Sport. Unlike in the 300 AWD, heated/cooled front seats and heated steering wheels are standard in the IS 350 F Sport. A ten-way power driver seat and an eight-way power adjustable passenger seat ensure that you bask in cabin comfort.

The 350 F Sport has been fine-tuned to allow the most consistent and comfortable experience on the road, no matter where the journey takes. And the trim can be further augmented by adding the Dynamic Handling Package (DHP). Trims with a DHP are equipped with a Torsen limited slip differential for enhanced traction when cornering or exiting turns and maintaining straight-line stability. They also have drive mode select programs available with Eco, Normal, Sport S, Sport S+, and Custom modes.

Infotainment and safety systems remain the same in the 350 F Sport. However, it does have Universal Garage Door Opener as standard, adding more convenience and security. Lastly, an improved feature on the 350 F Sport is Active Sound Control, which enhances the exhilarating performance notes of the V6 engine and reduces unpleasant tones.

Compare the 350 F Sport vs 350 F Sport AWD. What is the difference?

The 350 F Sport AWD has the same engine, horsepower, and torque output as the 350 F Sport. Comfort features, infotainment systems and the general appearance is also equivalently intelligent and fashionable.
The key difference between these trims is drivetrain: the 350 F Sport AWD is an all-wheel drive powered with a 6-Speed Automatic transmission; the 350 F Sport is a rear-wheel drive with 8-Speed automatic transmission.

Mastering powerful grip and traction, all-wheel drives are unfailing beasts that effortlessly glide through snow and mud without slipping or faltering. AWDs are heavier than RWDs, taking in more gas. Notwithstanding, the 350 F Sport AWD is almost as good in fuel economy as the 350 F Sport RWD, challenging it with 19 MPG in the city and 26 in the highway.

Compare the 350 F Sport AWD vs 500 F Sport Performance Trim Levels. What is the difference?

An elite IS500 F Sport Performance trim joins the lineup for 2022, flashing more aggressive exterior designs and a powerful 5.0-liter V-8 engine under its hood.

The Lexus IS 500 F Sport is distinguished by its properly aggressive bulging hood, which perfectly complements the rest of the design. Dark chrome edging around its mirrors, rear diffuser, stacked quad exhaust tips, and subtle trunk-lid spoiler are all additional sporty features in this model. The saucy sedan runs on flashy 19-inch alloy wheels which come standard with adaptive variable suspension.

All IS 500 trims are rear-wheel drive with eight-speed automatic transmissions, which includes the 500 F Sport Performance too. 500 F Sport's brawny 5-liter V8 engine is overpoweringly bigger and powerful when compared to the 350 F Sport AWD's 3.5-liter V6.

Compared to the 19/26 miles per gallon of the 350 F Sport AWD, the IS 500 F Sport Performance is rated for 17/25 (city/highway) miles per gallon - a small decline. With 473 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, the 500 F Sport Performance beats its precursor with a savage 4.3-second zero-to-60-mph time.

The 500 F Sport Performance's luxe cabin has been further enhanced with front door-sill scuff plates and a power tilt-and-slide moonroof. The power-adjustable steering wheel tilts and extends to your desired position, while the side mirrors also auto tilt down when driving in reverse for extra convenience.

The driver's seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors in this trim are power-adjustable and furnished with a memory system.

Unluckily, navigation is not an option on this trim, nor a premium sound system or panoramic view monitor, which are all available on the 350 F Sport AWD. However, it continues to offer the standard suite of driver-assist features, including automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Compare the 500 F Sport Performance vs 500 F Sport Performance Premium Trim. What is the difference?

The 500 F Sport Performance Premium is basically the Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance with a few interesting tweaks. Perhaps the most attractive feature is the massive 10.3-inch touchscreen with navigation system, along with dynamic voice command, and Mark Levinson premium surround sound with 17 speakers.

The Premium takes things further with a power rear sunshade, panoramic view monitor and premium triple-beam LED headlamps. An observing eye will notice that the machined aluminum control knobs enhance the futuristic and sleek look of the sedan.

Compare the 500 F Sport Performance Premium vs 500 F Sport Performance Launch Edition. What is the difference?

Only 500 models for the 500 F Sport Performance Launch Edition 2022 are available, making it even more desirable. The IS 500 Launch Edition carries the same 5.0-liter V8 engine, generating 472 hp and 395 lb.-ft of peak torque to produce the linear acceleration and V8 muscle that young drivers crave.
For drivers who are more interested in distinct looks, the IS 500 Launch Edition offers a number of interior and exterior enhancements. Standing out from the standard IS 500, the 2022 Launch Edition interior adds to Takumi craftsmanship with sporty Black & Gray Ultrasuede® trimmed seats, door accents, and center console. Similarly, the heated leather steering wheel is treated with a unique silver ash wood along with the black F SPORT Performance badge. Moreover, starting up the car displays an updated startup combination instrumentation meter animation compared to other IS 500 models.

Out of the road, the provocative silhouette is sure to turn heads with standard 19-inch split-seven-spoke alloy BBS® wheels in Matte Black. Looks aside, these 19-inch BBS® wheels are each 4 pounds less in comparison to the standard 19-inch IS F SPORT wheel.

The F Sport Performance Launch Edition adds a final touch of distinction with the body tone - Incognito Grey - which is exclusive to this model and pops the black wheels and other accents.

Final Thoughts

Owning a limited Launch Edition would be something, but it's not practical for most, with only 500 of them available out there.

If you are looking for a high-end model, the 500 F Sport Performance Premium is the best option with its complete technology package and exquisitely refined fine details. The 500 F Sport Performance Premium doesn't come cheap, and has a high price tag attached of $60,000.

If you seek a better bargain, the base trim IS 300 is comparatively cheaper and marked under $40,000. The slick sedan still boasts a number of upscale features, including a nice infotainment system and smart driver-assist technologies. Even though heated and ventilated front seats or a power moonroof do not come standard, you can always choose to have them added on.

Albeit comparatively lacking in speed or power, the IS 300 puts an impressive show on the road and does not fail to provide a fun, intelligent and sporty ride.If having all-wheel drive is important, you can move up a trim to the 2022 Lexus IS 300 AWD.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2021 Lexus IS Trime Levels