Is the 2016 Lexus IS350 F Sport Still Worth Buying Today? A Complete Review

When I first laid eyes on the 2016 Lexus IS350 F Sport back when it launched, I remember thinking this was the car that could finally challenge the German dominance in the sport sedan segment. Seven years later, I recently spent a week with one to answer the burning question: is it still worth buying today? Let me tell you, much like that incredible Barangay Ginebra comeback attempt where they rallied from 94-76 down in the third quarter to actually lead 101-100 in the fourth, this Lexus has some surprising fight left in it despite its age.

Sliding into the driver's seat still feels special even by 2023 standards. The F Sport seats hug you just right, and that perfectly positioned steering wheel immediately signals this isn't your average luxury sedan. The interior materials have held up remarkably well - the soft-touch surfaces, aluminum pedals, and that iconic analog clock all maintain their premium feel. Sure, the infotainment system shows its age with that frustrating touchpad controller, but the Mark Levinson sound system remains absolutely brilliant, delivering crystal-clear audio that rivals systems in cars costing twice as much.

Where this car really surprised me was out on winding roads. The 3.5-liter V6 engine's 306 horsepower might not sound extraordinary compared to today's turbocharged competitors, but there's something genuinely satisfying about its linear power delivery and that sweet engine note. It reminds me of watching underdog teams mount incredible comebacks - sometimes raw, naturally-aspirated determination can still triumph over more technologically advanced opponents. The steering provides decent feedback through corners, and the chassis maintains impressive composure when pushed hard, though I'll admit it doesn't feel quite as sharp as the current BMW 3-series.

The comparison to that basketball game isn't random - both demonstrate how initial disadvantages don't necessarily determine the final outcome. NorthPort showed composure and responded with big shots when challenged, and similarly, this Lexus handles challenging driving situations with remarkable poise. The adaptive suspension in Sport+ mode genuinely transforms the car's character, tightening everything up for serious driving while remaining comfortable enough for daily commuting. I put about 500 miles on the car during my test week, mixing highway cruising with backroad blasts, and never once felt fatigued - something I can't say about many newer sport sedans.

Now, let's talk practical considerations. With used prices typically ranging between $25,000 to $32,000 depending on mileage and condition, you're getting what I consider tremendous value. You're essentially getting about 85% of the performance and luxury of a new IS model for roughly half the price. Maintenance costs are where Lexus truly shines - unlike German competitors that can become money pits as they age, this powertrain has proven incredibly reliable over the years. I've spoken with owners who've crossed 150,000 miles with only routine maintenance, and the dealership experience remains premium even for older models.

There are compromises, of course. The rear seats are tighter than in some competitors, and fuel economy won't match newer turbo-four engines, averaging about 20 mpg in mixed driving based on my testing. The safety tech feels dated too - you get basic systems but miss out on the more advanced driver assists that have become common in recent years. Still, as someone who values driving engagement over autonomous features, I actually prefer the more connected feel you get without all the electronic nannies constantly intervening.

What ultimately won me over was how this car makes you feel. Modern sport sedans have become so competent, so refined, that they sometimes feel sterile. The IS350 F Sport retains enough raw character and mechanical feedback to keep driving exciting while still providing that Lexus refinement we all love. It's like that moment when Barangay Ginebra mounted their 14-2 run - there's something special about watching proven performers rise to the occasion when challenged by newer competitors.

After my week with the car, I can confidently say the 2016 IS350 F Sport remains a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts who want luxury and reliability without breaking the bank. It's not perfect, but its strengths where it matters most - driving dynamics, build quality, and that glorious V6 - make it stand out in today's used car market. Sometimes the best value isn't in having the latest technology, but in finding something that's stood the test of time while retaining its soul. This Lexus, much like veteran athletes who know how to pace themselves through a game, understands that true longevity comes from mastering the fundamentals rather than chasing every new trend.