5 Star Reviews for 2002 Lexus IS 300

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 71 through 80 of 165.00
  • 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!

  • Great car all around - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Definitely an excellent car. Fun, quite fast. Handling is crisp and predictable; ride is smooth. Much better car than competition in the same class. The only thing it could use is a little bit more power.

  • Great, Fun, good re-sale and RELIABILITY - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I like it alot. ZERO problem with the car so far. Only a light bulb is replaced. Other than that, regular 5k maintenance is all I did. Great handling, great acceleration, very comfortable interior. Quiet for a sport car. Overall, a better car than Acura CL-S, 350Z, Audi A4 and C240. No regret buying the IS-300.

  • More Fun for the Dollar - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Great looks; smooth reving and torquey engine with world class tranny and brakes. Seats are comfortable; Sportcross gives the hatchback appeal and functionality of some of the Euro cars: BMW; Audi et al. Steering is highly responsive and tracks on center; it talks to you; you know where you are in the curves when driving at 8/10ths or better. R&T ran this car thru the cones @ 65mph and .91g on the skidpad:nuff said about handling. Great car

  • One of the best cars on the road - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Everything about this car is 5 Star quality. Never have a problem with 65K miles. You cannot get a better small sedan than this car. The end.

  • Helluva Car - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Fabulous car, well designed and extremely fun to drive

  • True Luxury Sport Sedan - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Consistent, reliable, fun to drive. Manual shift requires open space to unwind. Eats mountain and coastal roads for dessert.

  • Affordable Performance and Style - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    I am extremely happy w/ my IS300 This car has the soul of a tiger. The handling is outstanding, and performance is great, but the styling is what I really love. Granted, the styling is "not your fathers Lexus", but it is very nice indeed. For thousands of dollars less than its main competitors, you get alot of bang for your buck. This, of course, is not a perfect car. The gas mileage is less than average (expect about 18-20 mpg), and the trunk space is extremely lacking.

  • Best purch I ever made - 2002 Lexus IS 300
    By -

    Bought it new. Have put on 135K miles so far with no problems other than normal wear items. Runs like a top. Still love to drive this car. Wonderfully crisp handling, great powerband. No probs w/fuel economy. I get the mfrs rating of 25 mpg on the highway with 70mph cruising. One of Toyotas finest creations.

Lexus IS 300 Reviews By Year:
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