2016 Lexus Is 350 Horsepower

So, picture this: I’m at a stoplight, coffee in hand, feeling like a responsible adult. A silver sedan pulls up next to me, growling like a bear that just stubbed its toe. The driver gives me a nod, and then the light turns green—and he vanishes. That’s the moment I realized: I needed to know everything about the 2016 Lexus IS 350’s horsepower.

Let’s be honest—Lexus doesn’t usually scream “speed demon.” They’re more like the quiet kid in class who secretly aces every test. But the 2016 IS 350? It’s the kid who shows up to the exam in a leather jacket and sunglasses. Under the hood, it packs a 306-horsepower V6 engine, and trust me, that’s no joke.

Now, 306 horses might not sound insane compared to modern muscle cars that hit 500+. But here’s the kicker (and I’m talking to you, reader who loves a good twist): this Lexus loves to rev. It’s naturally aspirated, meaning no turbo lag, just pure, linear power that climbs all the way to the redline. It’s like a classical musician who suddenly starts shredding on an electric guitar—unexpected, but oh-so satisfying.

The Heart of the Beast: What Makes That 306 Horses Run?

That engine is a 3.5-liter V6, code-named 2GR-FSE. It’s not just numbers; it’s a sonic symphony. When you stomp the gas, it doesn’t shout—it sings, with a deep, mechanical growl that makes you grin like an idiot. I mean, I’ve driven cars with more power that felt numb. This one feels alive.

Here’s a dirty little secret: the IS 350’s horsepower gets to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic. You read that right—no manual option for 2016. And you know what? The auto is so good, you won’t miss the stick shift. It snaps off shifts faster than you can say “downshift,” and it even rev-matches on downshifts. Fancy, right?

But wait—did you notice I haven’t mentioned the 0-60 time yet? That’s because driving the IS 350 isn’t about stopwatch stats. It’s about that moment you hit a curvy backroad and the car dances. With 277 lb-ft of torque and a chassis that feels planted, it’s like a sports sedan that forgot it’s supposed to be a luxury car.

But Is It Actually Fast? (Spoiler: Yes, But With a Quirky Twist)

Officially, the 2016 IS 350 hits 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds. That’s not supercar territory, but it’s quicker than a lot of things wearing a BMW badge. And here’s the irony: it feels faster than the numbers suggest, because the engine is so eager. It’s like a Labrador retriever that’s been waiting all day for a walk—it just wants to go.

2016 Lexus IS 350 F Sport with 2017 Updates Review by Carey Russ +VIDEO

Now, let’s talk about the downside (because I’m honest like that). The fuel economy? Let’s just say your wallet will feel the burn—19 city, 28 highway on premium gas. But hey, you don’t buy a horse to save on hay, right? (Cue side-eye from your bank account.)

Another quirk: the IS 350 uses a direct injection system that can get carbon build-up on the valves over time. It’s a known issue, but not a dealbreaker. Think of it as your car’s way of asking for a little extra TLC. Like a high-maintenance friend who’s really fun at parties.

So, Is This the Perfect Daily Driver?

You bet your morning commute it can be—if you value engagement over pure numbers. The IS 350 has this magical ability to make a trip to the grocery store feel like a mini Grand Prix. The steering is precise, the brakes are strong, and the seats hug you like a favorite sweater.

But here’s the catch (and I’m looking at you, luxury buyer): the interior is a bit cramped in the back. Adults will struggle on long drives. And the infotainment system? It’s a touchpad that makes you want to throw your phone out the window. Lexus, we need to talk. But the front seats are so good, you’ll forgive the backseat.

2016 Lexus IS 350 Review & Ratings | Edmunds

I remember test-driving one and accidentally hitting the “Sport+” mode. Suddenly, the dash turned a menacing red, the throttle response sharpened, and the exhaust note got angry. I laughed out loud. It was like the car was saying, “Oh, you want to play? Let’s play.”

The Verdict? It’s a Cult Classic in the Making

The 2016 Lexus IS 350 isn’t the most powerful car in its class. The Audi S4 and BMW 340i both out-gun it on paper. But the Lexus has character, and that’s something you can’t measure in horsepower. It’s the car you buy because it makes you smile every single day, not because it wins drag races.

If you’re looking for a used sports sedan that feels special every time you turn the key, this is it. Just be prepared for people to ask you, “Is that a Lexus? It sounds mean!” And you’ll nod, smirk, and say, “Yeah, 306 horses. Want a ride?” (But you probably shouldn’t try that on a first date.)

So go ahead, find one in Atomic Silver or Ultrasonic Blue Mica. Take it for a drive. Rev it out to 6,400 rpm. You’ll understand why horsepower isn’t just a number—it’s a feeling. And the 2016 IS 350 has that feeling in spades.