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 131 through 140 of 165.00
  • lexus - great job! - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    i have 3 automobiles in my household. bmw 328i, lexus es300,lexus rx300. when we do get our car serviced both dealers give us rental cars to drive while being serviced,, we often ask for the is300 on purpose because that car is so much fun to drive,,i love it,,,i want to get a bmw330 because of the power and of course i am still a bmw die hard fan,,but i really love this is300,,,if they make a lexus is330- i am so there. clay-dallas,tx

  • Great, Fun and Exciting Car... - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    After taking this car for a test drive, I was sold. So far after a year and 2 months I have had no problems and I feel like a kid everytime I get into it to drive. The mixture of the auto transmission with the optional E-shift feature is down right awesome. I find the E-Shift is best used when you are on the interstate and want to drop a gear to fly by someone. The mixture of the sound system and DVD Navigation and all the other features really make this a fun and exciting car. The ladies like it as well. ;)

  • IS 300 - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I love this car! I had to replace my last BMW 328i and with the reviews of seen of the IS 300, I just had to buy it. I love the handling of this car. Its a great combination of style, performance and luxury! I would not hesitate to buy it again. Sporty RWD and double wishbone suspension makes handling great, nice torquey 3.0L I6 engine makes for perfect balance and smoothness, luxurious interior that comes along with plethora of options and comfort, exterior styling very rich and lively.

  • lexus is - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    this car is awsome

  • I love my CAR! - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    This car is a blast to drive. And it looks as good as it drives. I cant go a day without taking it for a spin. Try it, youll like it!

  • This is the enthusiasts pick - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    For 2002, Lexus offers a 5-speed manual option to the IS300 model. I jumped at the opportunity to drive one, and I was sold in a heartbeat. The firmer suspension tuning on this model as well as the crisp shifting action of the manual truly make this the enthusiasts choice for a great sport sedan. I opted for the leather/ecsaine interior trim package, which really helps keep you in place while making turns. The seats themselves are top-notch to begin with, even for tall drivers (Im 602"). The acceleration is just as smooth as the braking and cornering. The auto-leveling standard xenon headlamps are a nice touch too.

  • Excellent balance of perf. and luxury - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Even after a brief period of ownership, I am very happy with the car. Handling and brakes are excellent, I6 is very strong, and the vehicle is full of features. My previous vehicle was an Audi TT Quattro, and the only thing I really miss is the AWD. However, I love the RWD dynamics and the excellent Torsen differential in the IS.

  • I Love this Car... - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I have had my IS300 for a short time but have enjoyed every minute I spend in it! It is the perfect combination of luxury, style, sportiness and size. I went on an exhausting search for a small sports sedan. After each test drive (cars other than the IS), I kept coming back to this car! It is the perfect car for me. The handling is great. Accleration is even better. Perfect for my daily commute along a very busy six lane highway. I can get in and out and around other cars without any problem.

  • Sportcross - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Just bought a black on black Sportcross and I am really enjoying it. Handles and brakes better than anything else with this much cargo flexibility (bar none). All it needs is a low pressure turbo or supercharger and it would run with an M3.

  • Quick Silver! - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I LOVE this car! Bought it back in august of 01, put about 3k miles on her since then. The ride is smooth, the seats fit your body wonderfully. Tight handling. Beauty of an engine, quite when you cruise and absolutely PURRs when you give it the gas. Sound system is solid. Sunroof is a MUST on this car, no exceptions. Heater works very well in the cold.

Lexus IS 300 Reviews By Year:
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