NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Lexus IS 300
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Lexus IS 300 is a compact luxury sport sedan aimed at drivers who want premium refinement paired with a genuinely engaging driving character. Competing against the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the IS 300 targets buyers who prioritize brand prestige, interior quality, and a rear-wheel-drive-rooted platform. It occupies a well-defined sweet spot in the entry luxury sedan segment for model years 2020 through 2025.
The 2021 Lexus IS 300 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 95 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.
- families prioritizing rollover safety
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the IS 300 for its driver-focused character, premium cabin materials, and sharp styling that has aged well within the segment. Most note that the driving dynamics feel more involving than several German rivals at this price point. Some reviewers point to rear-seat space and infotainment usability as areas where the IS trails newer competitors, though overall sentiment toward the model remains positive.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15838
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
1 owner complaint on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.