2002 Lexus IS 300 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.48/5 Average
165 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Once a goal is set, Lexus is not a company to dillydally. Witness the 2002 IS 300. After just one year on the fiercely contested entry-level luxury sport sedan battlefield, Lexus has quickly moved to address the IS 300's short list of faults. A five-speed manual transmission is available, and it comes packaged with a sportier suspension than what is offered on the "regular" IS 300. The luxury side of the equation has also been upped. A navigation system and an all-leather interior are optional this year, and the rearview and driver-side mirrors are auto-dimming. Safety is also enhanced with the addition of head-protecting side curtain airbags (in addition to the regular side airbags), a BrakeAssist function and a stability control system. And for all of those golden retrievers out there tired of riding around in numbing RX 300s, take notice that Lexus has expanded the IS 300's lineup with a wagon version.

Pros:
  • Outstanding driving dynamics, slick interior decor, competitive pricing.
Cons:
  • Small rear seat and trunk, not much storage space, styling more suited to baggy-panted masses.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 165.00
  • LOVE IT ON PURPOSE - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Love this car because of racey styling,Not in spite of it! Superb Toyota reliability and quality Tight and quick. I smile every time I wind up that smooth inline 6.

  • IS300 SportCross Experience - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    After 6 months I have been pleased with the purchase. Ride quality is very good, seats comfortable and supportive, transmission smooth and easy to use in the Sportshift mode. I like the Ecsaine fabric because it warms up quickly and keeps me from sliding in the seat. The car is quiet, the sound system very good and the 6 disc changer in the dash is handy. I average 22 to 23 mpg on premium fuel in town driving). I have yet to observe highway mileage. The interior space is well designed for hauling cargo when necessary. The car remains tight and rattle free as I approach 4k miles.

  • I love my Sportcross - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I love this car. I have had it for 4 months and have not seen a single one like it, there are other is300s out there but no wagons. Very few can say they have such a unique and head- turning car. Handling is very nible. The car is so responsive that you dont feel like you are driving this car so much as mentally willing it to move. It makes my daily commute enjoyable and everyone I know likes it. It is fast. I topped it out at 137, it would have gone faster if it did not have 500lb in cargo at the time. It has lots of low end power. VROOM!!! The e-shift is *fun* and useful, especially for sudden bursts of speed when passing. Fuel economy is mediocre.

  • Buyers Remorse Gone Sweet! - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I bought this car almost a month ago and was ripped off by a flipper who committed odometer fraud. After kicking myself in the butt for falling for it, I realized this is one amazing car. Great handling, lots of power, stylish, A REAL HEAD TURNER! I estimated it to be at about 171,000 miles at the moment but you could never tell because it still hauls better than my 05 Accord with 115K miles. Very comfortable. Cant wait to take a road trip in it. Stylish as it comes but the aftermarket parts are all over if you feel the need. I am putting on a K&N cold air intake to hear that engine purr nicer. Already has a nice soft roar. I plan to keep this car until it dies!

  • What I Expected - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Car is exactly what I expected except the gas consumption. Tried to save money by using mid grade instead of the premium required. Have gone back to premium and expect mileage to improve. Sound system is fantastic. Steering is equal to the S2000. Room in the rear is much better than expected.

  • Great buy - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Great buy, with recent incentives.

  • Awesome car! - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    This car is great fun to drive. I really like the handling on both the interstate and backroads. It is comfortable and the driving position is excellent. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a true sports sedan.

  • better than any 3 eries or audi out ther - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    my boy has the 330c1 and the ride was so rough i needed two pain killers when i get out of the car. the audi A4S is blindingly fast with with no control on the road.Lexus IS 300 gives you a balance of all superb handiling, great acceleration , and a decent ride.

  • Great car - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I love almost everything about the car. I test drove and BMW 325CI also but if you ask me, this car drives way smoother than the BMW.

  • Fun car to drive - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Ive had my IS for a little over a year now. Bought it used as a certified pre-owned with about 63k miles on it. Its an auto with the e- shift option which is fun but I dont use very much. I love my Lexus a little bit more every time that I sit in the front seat! It is a very fun car to drive, extremely reliable, handles great, accelerates quick, rides smoothly, and is very eye catching. Havent had any problems with it and planning on keeping it for many years to come!

Lexus IS 300 Reviews By Year:
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