Lexus IS Saloon (2013 - 2020) 300h F-Sport (Navigation/Leather) 4d CVT Auto Owner Review

This is the best car I've ever owned and I've had quite a few including Audi, BMW, Mazda, Volvo, VW. I did quite a lot of research before buying and one of the key things I wanted from my new car was low emissions with decent MPG whilst still having fun driving it. Had I listened to some of the 'professional' reviews there's a very good chance I would have completely ignored the IS300H. I'm so glad I didn't and here's why: Exterior styling - Its just a really great looking car. Mine is Ultra Blue in F Sport spec and everyone who sees it comments. Its sporty yet not brash. Interior - The design and quality are second to none. It betters Audi and BMW in my opinion. Everything is beautifully built and has a luxurious feel. The level of specification is awesome - its the most equipment I've ever has without being overly complicated. And I have to mention the infotainment system which seems to get such a slating in the non-owner reviews. I'm no technical expert but after a couple of days of driving the car I can work it easily. The graphics are sharp and clear and the functions sensibly laid out. The temperature control bars are a neat touch as are the windows which close with a final slow bit at the end - class. Driving - I find this car to be an excellent balance of comfort and sportiness. The electric motor makes slower town driving very relaxing not to mention the smug feeling it gives you as you watch the MPG figures go up despite being in stop start traffic! I love the clever technology that underpins the car and the way it seamlessly engages power sources to suit driving. Perhaps the best surprise was the performance that's available when 'Sport' mode is turned on. The ASC sound through the speakers is just ace (especially the odd 'backfire' pops that it occasionally throws out :)). Handling is very direct, better than my previous 3 Series in my view. The CVT system is smooth and effortless and suits the car perfectly, again nothing like what I expected from reading magazine reviews. Overall I'm very, very happy with this car. It stands out for all the right reasons and makes driving a pleasure. I think I'm now a Lexus hybrid convert!