2001 Lexus IS 300: Road Test
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2001 Lexus IS 300 ▼
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- MSRP: $30,805
- Invoice: $27,108
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Our road test for the 2001 Lexus IS 300 includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Lexus IS 300 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Lexus IS 300, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Lexus IS 300 help you decide if a 2001 Lexus IS 300 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.6 |
Test car did 0-60 mph in a class-competitive 7.3 sec. Responsive automatic transmission complements strong midrange punch. Manual-change buttons provide quick shifts, but can take time to learn and don't provide true manual operation.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.4 |
Test cars averaged 17.2-18.9 mpg on the required premium gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.3 |
Firm and occasionally thumpy over sharp bumps, though the IS 300 copes well with broken pavement at higher speeds and is always stable.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.6 |
Corners with agility and precision regardless of wheel/tire choice. Going too fast risks a tail slide, but that's easily corrected with quick, informative steering. Simulated panic stops showed little dive, good stability and shorter-than-average distances.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.2 |
Coarse-pavement tire thrum can intrude, and wind noise higher than in some rivals. Engine is tuned for a throatier sound than in the GS 300, but it's still subdued at lower rpm, smooth, and pleasant to hear.
CONTROLS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.5 |
Jazzy "chronograph-style" gauge cluster is legible enough, but some of our testers would prefer a more orthodox display. Cabin decor is Lexus-worthy save cheap-looking ribbed dashtop and plastic center console trim.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
A bit snug. Limited rearward seat travel mars otherwise good driving position. Seats have relatively thin shells, subpar lumbar bolstering, and cushions too short for optimal thigh support.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.5 |
Two adults is the practical limit, but no surfeit of space in any dimension. Narrow floor-level passages and small doors make getting in or out a squeeze.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3.5 |
Usefully cubic trunk has decent space for a compact sedan, but also bulky U-shape hinges that could crunch your Louis Vuitton.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4 |
Rival BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 models feel more substantial, have "built for the autobahn" cachet, and perhaps more ultimate dynamic ability. But IS 300 is sporty driving fun Lexus-style, and that's no bad thing.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 53 | 51.3 |
Total Score: 53
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