Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're going to get up close and personal with a ride that really made a splash back in 2017 – the Lexus IS 350 F Sport. If you're someone who appreciates a blend of luxury, sporty handling, and a dash of sophisticated style, then this car is definitely one you'll want to know about. We're talking about a sedan that doesn't just get you from point A to point B; it makes the journey an event. This isn't just any luxury sedan; the 'F Sport' badge means Lexus has dialed up the performance and aesthetics to create something truly special. So, buckle up as we explore the 2017 IS 350 F Sport specs, diving deep into what made this car a standout in its class and why it might still be a compelling option for discerning drivers today. We'll cover everything from its powerful heart under the hood to the nitty-gritty details that make the F Sport package so desirable. Get ready to geek out with us over this fantastic piece of automotive engineering.

Engine and Performance: Unleashing the Power

Let's start with the heart of the beast, shall we? The 2017 Lexus IS 350 F Sport packs a serious punch thanks to its robust powertrain. Underneath that sleek hood lies a 3.5-liter V6 engine. Now, this isn't just any V6; it's tuned to deliver a spirited performance that’ll put a smile on your face. We're talking about a healthy 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough grunt to get you moving quickly and confidently, whether you're merging onto the highway or enjoying a spirited drive on some twisty roads. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which Lexus engineers have meticulously calibrated for smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. You've also got the option of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or, for those living in areas with unpredictable weather, an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The AWD system is particularly clever, intelligently distributing power between the front and rear axles to optimize traction and stability without significantly compromising the car's sporty feel. The F Sport trim doesn't just stop at the engine; it enhances the entire driving dynamics. You get a sport-tuned suspension that offers a fantastic balance between comfort and agility. It’s firm enough to keep the car planted during cornering, reducing body roll, yet it still manages to absorb road imperfections reasonably well, so you're not getting bounced around excessively. The steering is also responsive, giving you precise control and excellent feedback, making you feel connected to the road. For those who really want to push the envelope, there are different drive modes available, typically including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Sport S+. Engaging the Sport modes sharpens throttle response, alters transmission shift points for more aggressive gear changes, and stiffens up the suspension even further. This allows you to tailor the car's personality to your mood and the driving conditions, transforming it from a comfortable cruiser into a surprisingly agile sports sedan. The brakes are also up to the task, providing strong and consistent stopping power, which is crucial when you're dealing with this level of performance. All these elements combine to create a driving experience that is both engaging and refined, a hallmark of Lexus engineering.

Exterior Design: The F Sport Aesthetic

Now, let's talk about how this beauty looks. The 2017 Lexus IS 350 F Sport takes the already elegant IS sedan and injects it with a dose of aggressive styling that truly sets it apart. The most striking element is undoubtedly the unique F Sport grille. It’s a much more intricate and pronounced version of the standard Lexus spindle grille, featuring a mesh pattern that practically screams performance. This grille isn't just for show; it contributes to the car's aerodynamic profile. Flanking the grille are sharp, modern headlights with LED accents, giving the car a piercing gaze that’s both sophisticated and menacing. The front bumper is also redesigned for the F Sport, featuring larger air intakes that not only enhance the car's sporty appearance but also help with cooling the engine and brakes. Moving along the sides, you'll notice the sculpted body lines that give the IS a dynamic and athletic stance. The F Sport model often comes with exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, usually in a darker finish, which perfectly complement the car’s aggressive styling. These wheels aren't just about looks; they are designed to be lightweight and strong, contributing to better handling. Subtle F Sport badging on the fenders is another indicator of its special status. The rear of the car is equally compelling, with sleek LED taillights that echo the design language of the headlights. The rear bumper is often subtly restyled to match the front, and a small, integrated spoiler on the trunk lid adds a final touch of sportiness without being over the top. The exhaust tips are typically larger and sportier as well. What's really cool is that the F Sport package often includes unique color options or finishes that further differentiate it from the standard IS models. Lexus pays incredible attention to detail, and this is evident in the quality of the paint, the precise fit and finish of all the body panels, and the overall cohesive design. It’s a car that looks good from every angle, exuding a premium feel that’s both understated and bold. The exterior of the 2017 IS 350 F Sport is a masterclass in how to create a sporty and luxurious appearance without resorting to excessive gaudiness. It’s a design that remains appealing years after its release, proving that timeless styling can indeed stand the test of time. This aggressive yet refined look is a major part of what makes the F Sport so desirable.

Interior and Comfort: A Driver-Focused Cockpit

Slide inside the 2017 Lexus IS 350 F Sport, and you’ll immediately feel the difference. This isn’t just a comfortable cabin; it’s a driver-focused cockpit designed to enhance your connection with the car. The F Sport treatment really shines here. The first thing you'll notice are the F Sport seats. These are not your average car seats, guys. They are deeply bolstered, offering incredible support during spirited driving. They hug you in all the right places, providing both comfort on long journeys and security when you're taking corners. They’re usually upholstered in a combination of soft leather and a more grippy material, ensuring you stay put. The F Sport steering wheel is another highlight. It’s typically thicker, wrapped in perforated leather, and features a unique F Sport logo at the bottom. It feels great in your hands and provides excellent tactile feedback. Behind the wheel, you’ll find a specially designed F Sport instrument cluster. This is a real showstopper, inspired by the LFA supercar. It features a large, movable central tachometer that can slide left and right to display different information, such as navigation or audio settings. It’s incredibly cool and adds a definite performance-oriented vibe to the interior. The materials used throughout the cabin are, as you’d expect from Lexus, top-notch. Soft-touch surfaces abound, and the fit and finish are impeccable. The F Sport model often includes unique trim accents, like brushed aluminum or carbon fiber-look materials, further enhancing the sporty feel. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, thanks to Lexus's excellent noise insulation, allowing you to truly enjoy the premium sound system or have a conversation without shouting. Speaking of sound, the infotainment system, controlled via the Remote Touch interface (a trackpad-like controller), is generally user-friendly, though some might find the trackpad a bit finicky at first. It includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, a backup camera, and navigation, all displayed on a crisp central screen. Comfort features abound, including dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and power-adjustable everything. Even the rear seats are reasonably comfortable for a compact luxury sedan, offering decent legroom and headroom for passengers. The overall ambiance is one of sophisticated sportiness – a place where luxury meets performance. The attention to detail, from the stitching on the seats to the ambient lighting, creates an environment that feels both special and highly functional. It's a cabin designed to make every drive, whether it's a quick trip to the store or a long road trip, an enjoyable experience.

Technology and Safety Features: Staying Connected and Protected

In the 2017 model year, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport offered a solid suite of technology and safety features that were competitive for its time. While it might not have had all the cutting-edge advancements we see in brand-new cars today, it certainly provided a well-rounded package to keep drivers informed, entertained, and safe. For entertainment and information, the Lexus Enform infotainment system was the centerpiece. Controlled primarily through the center console’s Remote Touch interface (the mouse-like controller), it managed features like the audio system, navigation, phone connectivity (Bluetooth), and climate control. While the Remote Touch could be a bit polarizing – some loved its precision, others found it distracting – it was Lexus’s signature way of interacting with the system. The sound system, often a premium Mark Levinson upgrade on higher trims or as an option, delivered excellent audio quality, making commutes or road trips much more enjoyable. Standard features included a rearview camera, which was becoming increasingly common and essential for parking. USB and auxiliary audio inputs allowed for easy connection of personal devices. For those who wanted to stay connected on the go, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming were standard. On the safety front, the 2017 IS 350 F Sport was equipped with a comprehensive array of passive and active safety systems. Standard safety equipment included multiple airbags throughout the cabin (front, side, knee, and curtain), anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and traction control (TRAC). The Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system was crucial for maintaining control during emergency maneuvers. For those looking for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), Lexus offered optional packages. These could include features like Pre-Collision System (PCS), which used radar to detect potential forward collisions and could automatically apply the brakes. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) allowed the car to maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed as needed – a real lifesaver on long highway drives. Lane Departure Alert (LDA) could warn the driver if the car was drifting out of its lane without the turn signal activated. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) was another valuable addition, helping drivers be aware of vehicles in their blind spots and alerting them to approaching traffic when reversing out of a parking spot. While some of these ADAS features might seem standard on new cars today, in 2017, they represented a significant commitment to safety by Lexus, especially on a sporty sedan like the IS 350 F Sport. These technologies not only enhanced peace of mind but also contributed to the car’s overall refined and secure driving experience.

Why the 2017 IS 350 F Sport Still Holds Up

So, why are we still talking about the 2017 Lexus IS 350 F Sport years later? Well, it boils down to a few key factors that make it a truly compelling package, even in today's market. Firstly, the performance is genuinely engaging. That 3.5-liter V6 engine with 311 horsepower is not just a number; it translates into real-world acceleration that feels potent and satisfying. The 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth yet responsive, and the sport-tuned suspension and steering provide a driving experience that balances sporty dynamics with Lexus’s signature refinement. It’s a car that can be your daily driver without being boring, and it can handle a spirited drive on the weekend without feeling out of its depth. Secondly, the F Sport styling remains incredibly sharp. The aggressive grille, distinctive wheels, and sporty body enhancements give it a timeless aesthetic that still looks modern and desirable. It managed to blend luxury and sportiness in a way that few cars in its segment could, and that visual appeal hasn't faded. Thirdly, the interior is a fantastic place to be. The supportive F Sport seats, the driver-focused gauge cluster, and the high-quality materials create an environment that feels both luxurious and performance-oriented. Even by today's standards, the cabin materials and build quality are excellent, and the seats provide exceptional comfort and support. Furthermore, Lexus's reputation for reliability is legendary. While any used car requires due diligence, the IS lineup has historically been known for its durability and long-term dependability. This can offer peace of mind for buyers looking at a used luxury vehicle. Finally, the value proposition can be quite strong on the used market. You can often find a well-maintained 2017 IS 350 F Sport at a price point that offers significant bang for your buck compared to a brand-new luxury sport sedan. You get premium features, strong performance, and a luxurious experience without the premium price tag of a new model. It represents a smart buy for someone who appreciates automotive excellence and wants a car that delivers on multiple fronts – style, performance, comfort, and quality. It’s a testament to Lexus’s ability to create a well-rounded luxury sport sedan that stands the test of time.