New for 2020 is the F Sport Black Line which adds dark exterior and interior touches to an old friend. This version of the IS350 has been around since the 2013 model year, the Black Line is sportier-looking version of an old friend.
Available in a single trim level, the F Sport Black Line Special Edition is an added package to the standard IS350. The IS350 comes in either front wheel drive paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission or all-wheel drive with a six-speed automatic. My test vehicle was a front-wheel drive, with the F Sport Black Line Special Edition.
Standard features include a sunroof, an eight-speaker sound system, NuLuxe upholstery, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a forward collision warning system. The F Sport package gets some sporting upgrades like a limited-slip rear differential and sport-tuned suspension. While the Black Line package gets some dark interior and exterior trim touches.
A V6, 3.5-liter engine powers the IS350 producing 311 horses and 280 lb-ft of torque. My rear-wheel drive model was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Expect to get 20/city, 28/highway, and 23/combined mpg in this zippy sedan.
On the inside the IS350 puts on a luxurious show with soft leather and real wood trim. There’s a large screen for the infotainment center but the touchpad controller is fussy and difficult to use while driving. Due to the large size of the controller, seating is a bit cramped up front and the transmission tunnel makes the backseating really only workable for two passengers.
With sports suspension that gives the IS350 a firmer drive and steering that feels tight and true, there’s a lot of fun under the hood. But even will all that sporty driving, the interior remains quiet and refined: a winning combination.
