A decade ago, the Lexus IS 350 arrived with a powertrain that shook up the luxury sports sedan market. It boasted a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced a stunning 306 horsepower, and it was paired with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox. The IS 350 was a game-changer, and it cemented Lexus' reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the performance car segment. Today, we take a look back at the 2007 IS 350 and its impact on the automotive industry.
The IS 350 was a direct response to the BMW 3 Series, which had long been the benchmark for driving enthusiasts in the luxury sports sedan segment. Lexus knew it had to offer a compelling alternative, and the IS 350 was the result. With its aggressive styling, rear-wheel drive configuration, and potent powertrain, the IS 350 was a formidable competitor from the outset. It quickly became a favorite among driving enthusiasts, who appreciated its smooth power delivery, responsive handling, and comfortable ride.
The 2007 IS 350 was available in two trim levels: base and Sport. The base model came with a host of standard features, including keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, a sunroof, a premium audio system, and leather upholstery. The Sport model added sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, and a few other performance-oriented upgrades. Both models were well-equipped and offered excellent value for money.
The Powertrain: A Technical Marvel
At the heart of the 2007 IS 350 was a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced an impressive 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox, depending on the buyer's preference. The engine featured dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which helped to optimize power and efficiency at all engine speeds. The transmission was also a technological marvel, featuring paddle shifters for manual control, and an artificial intelligence shift (AI-SHIFT) system that learned the driver's habits and adjusted shift patterns accordingly.
The Chassis: Agile and Dynamic
The 2007 IS 350 was built on a rear-wheel-drive platform that featured a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided excellent handling and stability, and it allowed the car to corner with precision and grace. The chassis was also incredibly rigid, thanks to the use of high-strength steel and a laser-welded body structure. This rigidity provided a solid foundation for the suspension and helped to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels inside the cabin.
The Interior: Luxurious and Comfortable
The 2007 IS 350's interior was a marvel of design and craftsmanship. The dashboard was elegantly styled, and the controls were well-placed and easy to use. The seats were comfortable and supportive, and the cabin was spacious enough to accommodate four adults. The materials used throughout the interior were of high quality, and the fit and finish were impeccable. Overall, the interior of the IS 350 was a testament to Lexus' commitment to luxury and refinement.
The Safety Features: A Comprehensive Suite of Technologies
The 2007 IS 350 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, and a host of airbags. It also featured a tire pressure monitoring system, which helped to ensure that the tires were properly inflated at all times. These safety features helped to make the IS 350 one of the safest cars in its class, and they helped to give drivers and passengers peace of mind on the road.
The Fuel Economy: Surprisingly Efficient
Despite its powerful engine and sporty nature, the 2007 IS 350 was surprisingly fuel-efficient. It was rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which was impressive for a car of its size and performance capabilities. This efficiency was due in part to the engine's VVT-i system, which helped to optimize fuel consumption, and to the transmission's AI-SHIFT system, which adjusted its shift patterns to achieve maximum efficiency.
The Verdict: A Game-Changer That Still Impresses Today
The 2007 IS 350 was a game-changer in the luxury sports sedan segment. It offered a potent powertrain, agile handling, luxurious accommodations, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, all at a competitive price point. It quickly became a favorite among driving enthusiasts and helped to establish Lexus as a major player in the performance car market. Today, the 2007 IS 350 continues to impress with its blend of power, refinement, and value.
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 306 hp |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Six-speed automatic or six-speed manual |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 seconds (est.) |
| Fuel Economy | 20 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy |
| Price (MSRP) | $35,440 (base) / $38,220 (Sport) |
