The Lexus IS has long been recognized as the entry-level luxury sedan that brings a touch of Japanese refinement to the competitive segment. For years, Lexus was synonymous with comfortable, albeit somewhat conservative, vehicles. However, the introduction of the 2016 Lexus Is 200t marked a shift, injecting a dose of sportiness and modern technology into the lineup. Stepping away from the stereotype of a predictable luxury car, the IS 200t aimed to capture a younger, more performance-oriented audience without sacrificing the brand’s hallmark qualities.
This review delves into the specifics of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t, particularly the F-Sport variant, to explore its strengths, weaknesses, and overall appeal in the used car market. We will cover everything from its turbocharged engine and driving dynamics to its interior comfort and technology features, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts alike.
Exterior Styling: Bold Design with a Hint of Controversy
The exterior of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t is undeniably striking. Lexus adopted a bold design language, characterized by sharp lines and an aggressive stance. The most prominent feature is the “Predator” grille, a large, hourglass-shaped grille that dominates the front fascia. While it certainly makes a statement, its polarizing design has been a subject of debate among automotive critics and enthusiasts.
Front view of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t F-Sport in Redline, showcasing its aggressive 'Predator' grille and sculpted design.
Flanking the assertive grille are uniquely styled headlamps, featuring the signature Lexus “L” shaped daytime running lights. The bright red “Redline” paint of the test vehicle, while eye-catching, might not be the most flattering color for all. Lexus offers more sophisticated colors like Atomic Silver, which beautifully accentuates the car’s complex curves and sculpted body panels. The IS 200t manages to appear compact despite its sedan dimensions, thanks to its short overhangs and dramatically sculpted rear fenders.
Moving to the rear, the taillights echo the sharp design theme, extending along the rear quarter panels and seamlessly integrating with the trunk lid. This cohesive design element helps to visually reduce the perceived height of the trunk. The dual exhaust outlets add a sporty touch, contributing to the overall athletic aesthetic of the IS 200t F-Sport.
Interior Comfort and Technology: Lexus Refinement Meets Sporty Accents
Inside the 2016 Lexus IS 200t, you’ll find the expected Lexus level of quality and attention to detail. The interior is crafted with plush, high-quality materials throughout, creating a premium feel. Ergonomics are generally excellent, with controls logically placed and easily accessible. The gear shifter is intuitively positioned for manual gear changes, appealing to drivers who enjoy a more engaged driving experience.
Interior view of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t, highlighting the plush leather seats, steering wheel, and center console layout.
The F-Sport trim comes with exceptionally comfortable and supportive sport seats. These seats are designed for both long-distance cruising and spirited driving, providing ample support and bolstering. The availability of heated and ventilated front seats further enhances comfort in varying climates. While the light-colored leatherette in the test car looks stylish, darker options might be more practical for families to resist everyday wear and tear.
The rear seats, while adequate for shorter journeys, can feel a bit cramped for taller adults, particularly when sitting behind a similarly tall driver or front passenger. However, children will find the rear seats comfortable, making it suitable for small families or occasional adult passengers.
A notable drawback within the otherwise well-designed interior is the placement of the front cupholders. Positioned in a way that intrudes on passenger elbow space and placed too close together to accommodate larger cups simultaneously, this design oversight is a surprising flaw in an otherwise meticulously crafted cabin.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Turbocharged Fun with a Firm Edge
Under the hood, the 2016 Lexus IS 200t features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine replaced the previously standard six-cylinder in base models, aligning with the industry trend towards smaller, more efficient turbocharged engines. While the horsepower figure is respectable and surpasses competitors like the BMW 320i, real-world acceleration is comparable, with 0-60 mph times hovering around 7 seconds.
The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth and seamless shifts in normal driving. Switching to Sport mode sharpens the transmission response, holding gears longer and providing quicker downshifts for more engaging driving. Unfortunately, a manual transmission option is not available, which might disappoint purist driving enthusiasts.
Side profile of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t F-Sport in motion, emphasizing its sporty silhouette and alloy wheels.
The IS 200t F-Sport distinguishes itself with its engaging driving dynamics. The steering is precise and offers good feedback, contributing to confident handling. The suspension is tuned for a sporty feel, which translates to agile cornering and a planted feel on winding roads. However, this sporty suspension setup does result in a firmer ride quality compared to some competitors and other Lexus models. On rougher road surfaces, the ride can become somewhat busy, and road noise is slightly more pronounced than expected in a Lexus.
Compared to the Infiniti Q50 2.0t, another competitor in the segment, the IS 200t is often praised for being the more driver-focused car. Its tighter steering and more responsive suspension offer a more engaging and dynamic driving experience, potentially attributed to its lighter curb weight in the rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Technology and Features: Intuitive Interface and Premium Audio
The 2016 Lexus IS 200t opts for a Remote Touch Interface, a joystick-like controller located on the center console, to manage the infotainment system, rather than a traditional touchscreen. The screen itself is positioned further back on the dashboard, which some drivers may find preferable for reducing eye strain when switching focus between the road and the display. While touchscreens are often considered more intuitive, the Remote Touch system becomes easier to use with familiarity. Furthermore, it avoids fingerprint smudges on the screen, a common annoyance with touchscreen systems.
Close-up of the Lexus Remote Touch interface and controls in the 2016 IS 200t interior.
For audiophiles, the optional Mark Levinson premium sound system with 17 speakers is a standout feature. Delivering exceptional audio quality with rich and clear sound reproduction, it significantly enhances the in-car entertainment experience. The system is powerful enough to overcome external noise and provide immersive sound, making it a worthwhile upgrade for music lovers.
Conclusion: A Sporty and Stylish Entry-Level Luxury Sedan
The 2016 Lexus IS 200t successfully blends Lexus’s renowned luxury and reliability with a newfound sporty character. The turbocharged engine provides adequate power and decent fuel economy, while the F-Sport trim enhances the driving experience with sharper handling and sportier aesthetics. The interior maintains Lexus’s high standards for quality and comfort, though the rear seat and cupholder design have minor drawbacks.
Rear three-quarter view of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t, showcasing its taillight design and dual exhaust outlets.
Pros:
- Sporty turbocharged engine
- Engaging driving dynamics (especially F-Sport)
- High-quality interior materials
- Available Mark Levinson premium audio system
- Distinctive and bold styling
Cons:
- Polarizing exterior design
- Firm ride quality
- Cramped rear seats for adults
- Awkward cupholder placement
The 2016 Lexus IS 200t is a compelling option for buyers seeking a stylish and sporty entry-level luxury sedan. It appeals to those who appreciate a more engaging driving experience than traditional Lexus models, while still offering the brand’s renowned reliability and premium feel. Despite minor shortcomings like the firm ride and cupholder placement, the IS 200t remains a strong contender in its class, particularly for individuals or small families prioritizing driving enjoyment and distinctive design.
