The Lexus IS didn’t arrive to make noise, it came to last. Under the hood, the IS 300 and IS 350 AWD share a 3.5-liter V6 engine known as the 2GR-FSE, an engineering staple in Toyota’s lineup. It’s naturally aspirated, meaning no turbo lag or added complexity. The IS 300 puts out a respectable 260 horsepower, while the IS 350 jumps to 311 horsepower. Both versions use a six-speed automatic transmission that prioritizes smooth shifting and long-term durability.

What sets these sedans apart is the absence of overengineering. There are no dual-clutch gearboxes, no turbocharged heat buildup, and no surprise repair bills lurking around the corner. Lexus’s all-wheel drive system, added from 2007 onwards, further boosts confidence behind the wheel, especially in wet or icy conditions. For men in Saudi Arabia or the Gulf who travel abroad or relocate to colder climates, the IS AWD delivers year-round dependability without sacrificing driving fun.

While many used car buyers might flirt with European options like the BMW 3 Series xDrive or Audi A4 Quattro, these choices often come with hidden costs. Out-of-warranty repairs, electronic gremlins, and expensive service visits can turn a premium sedan into a wallet trap. Japanese alternatives like the Acura TLX SH-AWD offer similar peace of mind but suffer from tech frustrations that wear thin over time.

The Subaru WRX and Legacy bring all-wheel drive as standard and more aggressive looks, but long-term durability can be hit-or-miss, especially when it comes to their engines and CVTs.

That’s where the Lexus IS hits the sweet spot. It may not turn heads like a German badge or pull hard like a turbocharged four, but it keeps things simple, and strong. For the modern Arab man looking for a daily driver that won’t turn into a project car, the IS 300 and IS 350 AWD models make a quiet, confident case.