Which performance accessories are best for the Lexus IS sedan?

Question

What performance mods are actually worth the money for a 2021 Lexus IS 350? I am stuck between getting the RR Racing USRS bushing kit or just going with the F-Sport lowering springs and I'm honestly so frustrated with how floaty the car feels on the highway lately.

I've got about $1,200 to spend before my big road trip to the mountains next month and I need to make a move fast. I live in Chicago so the potholes are a total nightmare, which makes me nervous about the springs being too harsh for a daily driver. Is the bushing kit enough to fix the steering feel or should I just bite the bullet on the springs? Also looking at the F-Sport intake but I'm worried it's just for sound and no actual gains...

hunivpxtfi · Accepted Answer

The highway float you are experiencing is usually down to the soft factory lower control arm bushings. I have tracked and daily driven this platform for years, and sticking to a methodical upgrade path is better for your wallet.

Steering: The RR Racing USRS LCA Bushing Kit is essential. It eliminates the steering wander and fixes the common inner tire wear issue.

Stability: Instead of springs, look at the Lexus F-Sport Rear Sway Bar. It reduces body roll without affecting the vertical ride quality on rough roads.

Engine: Skip the Lexus F-Sport Performance Air Intake if you want performance. It sounds great but provides minimal HP gains for the price. Given your $1,200 limit and the Chicago potholes, I definitely wouldnt do the Lexus F-Sport Lowering Springs right now. The bushings and sway bar will give you the confidence you need for the mountains while keeping the car daily-driver friendly.

nrhtmmsvpu · Answer

Quick reply while I have a sec! I totally get being nervous about those Chicago roads... I was in the same boat last year! I wanted that solid feel without ruining the car's reliability. I actually started with a Cusco Front Strut Tower Bar Type OS and loved how it firmed up the steering without making the ride harsh at all. It's such a safe, easy mod and super affordable! Then I spent the rest of my budget on Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S 235/40ZR19 tires and oh my god, what a difference! The stability is incredible compared to the factory rubber. Comparing the two, the strut bar is a fantastic budget fix for turn-in feel, while the tires give you way more confidence in the rain and mountains. Plus, you wont have to worry about scraping on potholes like you would with springs! Good luck with the trip!

ymylruydtv · Answer

Unfortunately, that intake is not as good as expected for real gains. I had issues with stability on the stock setup too... it's frustrating. Quick tip: try Bilstein B6 Performance Shock Absorber instead of lowering springs to survive Chicago's potholes. Before I suggest anything else, what tires are you on? If you're still on the factory run-flats, that's likely causing that floaty bounce. Let me know.