As a longtime automotive journalist who has test-driven everything from budget commuters to six-figure supercars, I often get asked about that sweet spot where performance meets practical daily usability. One question that keeps popping up lately is whether the 2015 Lexus IS350 F Sport still holds up today. Having spent considerable time with this model both when it was new and more recently in the used car market, I can say the answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Let’s dive into what makes this car special and where it might fall short for modern buyers.
When you slide into the driver’s seat of the IS350 F Sport, the first thing that strikes you is the build quality. Lexus nailed it with the materials—the soft-touch surfaces, the solid click of the switchgear, and that iconic analog clock on the dash. It feels premium, even by today’s standards. The F Sport package adds aggressively bolstered seats, a slick sport steering wheel, and unique gauges that shift when you toggle through drive modes. It’s a driver-focused environment, though I’ll admit the infotainment system is a letdown. That joystick-controlled screen? Yeah, it’s as frustrating as everyone says. Navigating menus feels like using a early-2000s PDA, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are nowhere to be found. If you’re someone who lives for seamless tech integration, this might be a dealbreaker.
Under the hood, the 3.5-liter V6 is where the IS350 truly shines. It produces 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, numbers that still feel punchy nearly a decade later. The power delivery is smooth and linear, accompanied by a refined growl when you push it hard. I’ve always loved how Lexus engines balance sportiness with reliability—this powertrain is known for going 200,000 miles with basic maintenance. Paired with the six-speed automatic transmission, shifts are crisp in sport mode, though it’s not as lightning-fast as modern dual-clutch units. Fuel economy is decent for the class, averaging around 19 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway. Not class-leading, but reasonable for a car with this much grunt.
Now, let’s talk handling. The F Sport trim includes adaptive variable suspension, which firms up nicely when you’re carving corners. It’s not as razor-sharp as a BMW 3 Series from the same era, but it offers a great blend of comfort and agility. The steering is precise, if a bit light on feedback, making it easy to live with day-to-day. Where the IS350 really stands out is its bulletproof reputation. While German rivals often come with hefty repair bills as they age, this Lexus is famously dependable. RepairPal data suggests annual maintenance costs hover around $550 on average, which is significantly lower than competitors. For buyers wary of used luxury car ownership, that’s a huge plus.
Pricing is another key factor. A well-maintained 2015 IS350 F Sport typically sells for between $22,000 and $28,000 today, depending on mileage and condition. That’s a substantial drop from its original $45,000-plus sticker price. Compared to something like a 2015 Audi A4 or Mercedes C-Class, the Lexus holds its value better and offers more standard features, including heated and ventilated seats, keyless entry, and a decent sound system. It’s a lot of car for the money, especially if you prioritize long-term ownership costs over cutting-edge tech.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The rear seats are cramped for adults, and the trunk space is just 13.8 cubic feet—smaller than many compact sedans. If you regularly carry passengers or need to haul gear, you might find it limiting. And while safety features like blind-spot monitoring were available, they weren’t standard, so you’ll need to hunt for a well-optioned model. Still, for a daily driver that balances sportiness, luxury, and reliability, the IS350 F Sport remains a compelling choice.
So, is the 2015 Lexus IS350 F Sport still worth buying today? From my perspective, absolutely—if your priorities align with its strengths. If you value driving engagement, premium materials, and Toyota-level reliability over the latest tech gadgets, this car delivers in spades. It’s a refined, engaging sedan that has aged gracefully, and for around $25,000, it’s hard to find a used luxury sports sedan that checks as many boxes. Just be prepared to forgive its infotainment shortcomings and snug rear quarters. For me, the trade-offs are worth it for a car that feels special every time you fire up that V6.