The 2017 Lexus IS 300 delivers a blend of responsive handling and smooth comfort, making it a compelling choice in the luxury sport sedan segment. Many drivers focus on how quickly the IS 300 reaches highway speeds, and the 0-60 mph time is a key reference point for everyday performance.
Under the hood, a 3.5 liter V6 produces ample power while the responsive steering and balanced chassis keep the experience engaging. Below is a detailed snapshot of how the IS 300 performs and how it compares to rivals, helping you quickly understand what to expect.
| Model Year | Engine | 0-60 mph Time (seconds) | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 3.5L V6 | 5.6 | RWD |
| 2017 (Optional AWD) | 3.5L V6 | 5.4 | AWD |
| 2016 | 3.5L V6 | 5.7 | RWD |
| 2017 BMW 340i | 3.0L I6 | 4.8 | RWD / AWD |
| 2017 Acura TLX V6 | 3.5L V6 | 5.7 | RWD / AWD |
Power Delivery and Driving Dynamics of the 2017 Lexus IS 300
When you press the accelerator in a 2017 IS 300, the 3.5 liter V6 responds with smooth power and minimal turbo lag, delivering confident highway merging. The six speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, keeping acceleration linear and comfortable during everyday driving.
Weight distribution and chassis tuning help the IS 300 feel planted through turns while remaining compliant over imperfect roads. This balance is a core reason drivers appreciate how the car behaves from zero to sixty and beyond, especially when navigating winding roads or merging into fast moving traffic.
Optional all wheel drive trims enhance traction in rain or light snow, and they account for the slightly quicker 0-60 time compared with the rear wheel drive version. The result is a sedan that feels stable, communicative, and poised, even as it approaches higher speeds.
Everyday Performance and Real World Usability
In daily use, the 0-60 mph figure of around 5.6 seconds may not set records, but it feels adequate for city limits, on ramps, and suburban cruising. The cabin quiets road noise at steady speeds, allowing conversations and music to remain clear without raising the volume excessively.
Braking strength is confident, with solid pedal feel that inspires trust when approaching traffic lights or winding downhill streets. Visibility over the shoulder is aided by slim pillars, so checking blind spots feels natural even while maintaining awareness of surrounding vehicles.
Fuel economy remains reasonable for the segment, and the smooth power delivery reduces the need for aggressive gear hunting during highway overtaking. Drivers who enjoy spirited but controlled driving find the IS 300 engaging without becoming exhausting over long distances.
Interior Comfort, Technology, and Design Highlights
The 2017 IS 300 offers a well appointed cabin with premium materials, supportive seats, and intuitive controls positioned for ease of use. Available navigation, premium audio, and enhanced driver assist packages bring the car into step with expectations for modern luxury sedans.
Build quality feels solid, with tight panel gaps and a cohesive interior theme that emphasizes driver focus. Available adaptive variable suspension can subtly firm up damping to match road conditions and personal preferences, further enhancing the sense of control.
Exterior styling balances classic Lexus cues with sharper lines that help the car stand out in commuter traffic or parking lots. This visual presence complements the composed handling, giving the IS 300 a sporty yet refined character.
Ownership Costs, Reliability, and Long Term Value
Scheduled maintenance intervals are generous, and the Lexus reputation for durability contributes to lower long term ownership anxiety compared with some rivals. Warranty coverage during the bumper to bumper period provides additional peace of mind for new buyers.
Depreciation tends to be moderate for this segment, and strong residual values help preserve the overall cost of ownership. When considering the 0-60 performance and daily usability, many owners find that the IS 300 holds its value better than sport oriented luxury sedans that prioritize raw speed over balance.
Reliability surveys generally favor Lexus, and anecdotal reports from 2017 model year drivers highlight satisfaction with infotainment usability and the refinement of the V6 power plant.
Key Takeaways for the 2017 Lexus IS 300 Performance
- 0-60 mph time is around 5.6 seconds for RWD and 5.4 seconds for AWD models.
- The 3.5 liter V6 delivers smooth, linear power suitable for daily driving and highway use.
- All wheel drive enhances traction in poor weather and can slightly improve acceleration times.
- Handling remains balanced and composed, contributing to a confident and controlled driving experience.
- Compared with rivals, the IS 300 offers a blend of comfort, reliability, and decent performance for the segment.
FAQ
Reader questions
How quickly does the 2017 Lexus IS 300 reach sixty miles per hour from a standstill?
The 2017 Lexus IS 300 reaches 60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds with rear wheel drive, and around 5.4 seconds with the optional all wheel drive system.
Does the 0-60 time feel slower or faster than similar luxury sedans from 2017?
It feels slightly slower than sport focused rivals like the BMW 340i, but quicker than some mainstream luxury sedans, placing it in a balanced position for everyday driving.
Can all wheel drive improve the 0-60 performance on slippery surfaces?
Yes, all wheel drive helps maintain traction during acceleration on wet or lightly snowy roads, often resulting in a more consistent and slightly faster 0-60 time compared with rear wheel drive.
How does the 3.5 liter V6 feel during everyday acceleration in the IS 300?
During normal acceleration, the V6 provides smooth power with good mid range response, making highway merging and city overtaking feel confident without being overly aggressive.