Let's dive deep into the heart of the 2019 Lexus IS 350 F Sport: its engine. For those of you who appreciate a blend of luxury and spirited performance, the IS 350 F Sport doesn't disappoint. The engine isn't just a component; it's the soul of this vehicle, dictating its responsiveness, character, and overall driving experience. So, what exactly makes this engine tick, and why should you care?

The Power Plant: A Detailed Look

The 2019 Lexus IS 350 F Sport boasts a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. Forget turbocharging or supercharging; this engine relies on good old-fashioned displacement and engineering to deliver its power. This V6 is part of Toyota's renowned GR engine family, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. Specifically, it's the 2GR-FKS variant, an engine that's been tweaked and refined over the years to offer a compelling mix of performance and efficiency. The 2GR-FKS is an advanced engine featuring direct and port injection (D-4S), allowing it to optimize fuel delivery for both power and efficiency. Direct injection precisely sprays fuel into the combustion chamber, promoting efficient burning and increased power. Port injection, on the other hand, sprays fuel into the intake ports, helping to clean the intake valves and reduce carbon buildup. This combination ensures the engine runs smoothly and efficiently over the long term. The engine also features variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which adjusts the timing of the intake and exhaust valves based on engine speed and load. This optimizes engine performance across the entire RPM range, providing strong low-end torque and impressive high-end power. The V6 engine is not just about raw power; it’s about how that power is delivered. The IS 350 F Sport's engine is tuned to provide a linear and predictable response, making it easy to modulate the throttle and maintain precise control. This responsiveness is especially appreciated in spirited driving situations, where the driver needs to be able to quickly and accurately adjust the car's speed. When you put your foot down, the engine responds instantly, delivering a surge of power that is both exhilarating and confidence-inspiring. The engine's sound is also an important part of the driving experience. Lexus engineers have carefully tuned the exhaust system to produce a refined but sporty note that enhances the sense of connection between the driver and the car. The engine sounds purposeful without being overly loud or intrusive, making it suitable for both daily driving and weekend adventures.

Key Specifications

• Displacement: 3.5 liters
• Configuration: V6
• Aspiration: Naturally Aspirated
• Horsepower: 311 hp at 6,600 rpm
• Torque: 280 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm
• Fuel System: Direct and Port Injection (D-4S)
• Valvetrain: Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) with Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i)

These figures translate to brisk acceleration and ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The IS 350 F Sport can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.6 seconds, which is certainly respectable for a luxury sport sedan. The engine's broad torque curve means that you don't have to rev it to the moon to access its power; it pulls strongly from low RPMs, making it easy to overtake other cars or merge onto the highway. The horsepower and torque figures are impressive, but they don't tell the whole story. The engine's responsiveness and refinement are just as important, and these are qualities that the IS 350 F Sport excels in. The engine feels eager and willing, always ready to deliver more power when you need it. This makes the car feel alive and engaging, enhancing the overall driving experience. The D-4S fuel injection system plays a crucial role in the engine's performance and efficiency. By combining direct and port injection, the engine can optimize fuel delivery for a wide range of driving conditions. At low speeds and light loads, port injection helps to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. At higher speeds and heavier loads, direct injection provides more precise fuel control, increasing power and reducing the risk of engine knocking. This sophisticated fuel injection system allows the engine to deliver strong performance without sacrificing efficiency.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The engine is paired with a responsive and smooth-shifting automatic transmission. Depending on whether you opt for the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, you'll get either an 8-speed or a 6-speed automatic, respectively. Let's break down the transmission and drivetrain options to see how they affect the car's performance and handling.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) with 8-Speed Automatic

The rear-wheel-drive IS 350 F Sport gets an 8-speed automatic transmission that's been tuned for sporty driving. This transmission offers quick and precise shifts, whether you're letting the car do the work in automatic mode or taking control with the paddle shifters. The 8-speed transmission helps to keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing power and efficiency. The close gear ratios allow the engine to quickly reach its peak torque, providing strong acceleration and responsive performance. The transmission also features a sport mode that sharpens the shifts and holds gears longer, further enhancing the driving experience. In manual mode, the paddle shifters provide quick and precise control over gear changes, allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine's power. The rear-wheel-drive configuration gives the IS 350 F Sport a classic sports sedan feel. The car feels balanced and agile, with a natural tendency to rotate in corners. The rear-wheel-drive layout also allows for more direct steering feel, enhancing the driver's connection to the road. The combination of the powerful V6 engine, the 8-speed transmission, and the rear-wheel-drive configuration makes the IS 350 F Sport a joy to drive.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with 6-Speed Automatic

The all-wheel-drive IS 350 F Sport comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While it has fewer gears than the RWD model's transmission, it still provides smooth and responsive shifts. The AWD system enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The 6-speed automatic transmission is well-suited to the all-wheel-drive system, providing smooth and predictable shifts that help to maintain traction and control. The transmission also features a sport mode that sharpens the shifts and holds gears longer, providing a more engaging driving experience. While the 6-speed transmission may not be as advanced as the 8-speed unit in the RWD model, it still provides adequate performance and contributes to the overall driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence and stability, especially in slippery conditions. The system automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels, optimizing traction and control. This makes the IS 350 F Sport a capable and confidence-inspiring vehicle in all types of weather. The all-wheel-drive system also helps to improve handling by reducing understeer and providing more neutral cornering balance. The combination of the powerful V6 engine, the 6-speed transmission, and the all-wheel-drive system makes the IS 350 F Sport a versatile and capable vehicle.

Driving Experience

The 2019 Lexus IS 350 F Sport's engine isn't just about numbers; it's about the overall driving experience. The engine delivers a smooth and refined power, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. Whether you're commuting to work, cruising on the highway, or tackling a twisty back road, the engine provides the performance and responsiveness you need. The engine's linear power delivery makes it easy to modulate the throttle and maintain precise control. This is especially important in spirited driving situations, where the driver needs to be able to quickly and accurately adjust the car's speed. The engine's responsiveness also makes it easy to overtake other cars or merge onto the highway. The engine's sound is another important aspect of the driving experience. Lexus engineers have carefully tuned the exhaust system to produce a refined but sporty note that enhances the sense of connection between the driver and the car. The engine sounds purposeful without being overly loud or intrusive, making it suitable for both daily driving and weekend adventures. The IS 350 F Sport also features a sport-tuned suspension that complements the engine's performance. The suspension provides a firm but comfortable ride, minimizing body roll and maximizing handling precision. This allows the driver to fully exploit the engine's power and enjoy the car's sporty character.

Fuel Economy

Of course, performance isn't everything. Fuel economy is also an important consideration for many buyers. The 2019 Lexus IS 350 F Sport achieves respectable fuel economy figures for its class. The EPA estimates are as follows:

• RWD: 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
• AWD: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined

These figures are competitive with other luxury sport sedans in the same class. The D-4S fuel injection system helps to optimize fuel economy by precisely controlling fuel delivery. The system also helps to reduce emissions, making the IS 350 F Sport a relatively clean-running vehicle. While the IS 350 F Sport may not be the most fuel-efficient car on the market, it strikes a good balance between performance and efficiency. The engine delivers strong power and responsive performance without sacrificing fuel economy. This makes the IS 350 F Sport a practical choice for drivers who want a sporty and luxurious car that can also be used for daily commuting.

Reliability and Maintenance

Lexus has a well-deserved reputation for reliability, and the 2019 IS 350 F Sport is no exception. The 2GR-FKS engine is a proven design that has been used in a variety of Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, is essential to keep the engine running smoothly. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule will help to ensure that the engine lasts for many years. The IS 350 F Sport is also equipped with a variety of sensors and diagnostic systems that can help to identify potential problems early on. This allows drivers to address issues before they become more serious and expensive to repair. Lexus also offers a comprehensive warranty that covers the engine and other major components for a specified period of time. This provides added peace of mind for buyers who are concerned about potential repair costs.

Final Thoughts

The 2019 Lexus IS 350 F Sport's engine is a standout feature, providing a compelling blend of power, refinement, and reliability. It's a testament to Lexus's engineering prowess and commitment to delivering a rewarding driving experience. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a well-engineered machine, the IS 350 F Sport's engine is sure to impress. The engine's smooth power delivery, responsive performance, and refined sound make it a joy to drive in a variety of conditions. The engine is also backed by Lexus's reputation for reliability, ensuring that it will provide years of trouble-free service. If you're in the market for a luxury sport sedan that offers a great driving experience, the 2019 Lexus IS 350 F Sport is definitely worth considering. The car's powerful engine, sporty handling, and luxurious features make it a standout choice in its class.