Lexus has always been known to build some of the most reliable and elegant luxury sedans in the market. These sedans exude the type of poshness and softness one would expect from a luxury car. But did you know that some of the sedans are pretty fast, too? Check out these four sedans in the Japanese automaker’s current lineup and see which one is the fastest.

1. 2023 Lexus IS 300

The 2023 Lexus IS 300 is the brand’s smallest and most affordable sedan, as it slots below the V6-powered IS 350. The IS 300 is powered by a more economical but powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated solely to an eight-speed automatic transmission that pushes the power to the rear wheels, although an all-wheel drivetrain is available.

In rear-drive form, the IS 300 can get up to 60 mph from a standstill in 6.9 seconds, according to Lexus. However, opting for the AWD version drops that figure to 6.1 seconds. Also, the IS 300’s top speed is rated at 143 mph, so it’s not slow by any means.

2. 2023 Lexus IS 500

Those wanting a little more muscle than fuel efficiency should look toward the 2023 Lexus IS 500. The IS 500 is based on the same platform as the aforementioned IS 300 but adds the raw power of a 5.0-liter V8 engine. This is the same engine found in the venerable LC 500 supercar, and it looks right at home in the small sedan.

It also helps the Lexus IS scoot up to 60 mph in only 4.4 seconds, which is far quicker than its entry-level counterpart. Additionally, the IS 500’s top speed is rated at 149 mph, but we doubt you’ll need to go that fast on a public highway.

3. 2023 Lexus ES 350

The 2023 Lexus ES 350 is essentially a fancier version of its corporate cousin, the Toyota Camry. However, it adds a lot more elegance and style. Under the hood, you’ll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s the same engine found in the Camry TRD; however, it makes 302 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque in the Lexus.

With that kind of power, this midsize luxury sedan can get up to 60 mph in only 6.6 seconds and up to a top speed of 131 mph. That’s not bad for a plush family sedan.

4. 2023 Lexus LS 500

The Lexus LS is the car that launched the luxury brand into existence over 35 years ago and stands strong in the lineup today. Fortunately, shopping for one is easy as there is only one trim level, which is available with plenty of different options. However, one part that isn’t an option is its turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine that produces 416 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. That kind of power is enough to motivate this 4,969-pound full-size sedan up to 60 mph in only 4.6 seconds.

Interestingly, the weight puts a damper on the car’s top speed of 136 mph, making it slightly slower than the IS 500. That said, we’re sure the turbocharged engine is far more fitting for the LS.

What is the fastest Lexus sedan?

The fastest sedan in the current Lexus lineup is the IS 500. We’re surprised that Lexus stuffed its venerable V8 engine into the small sedan, especially since turbocharging four-cylinder engines is en-vogue these days. But we’re glad it did.

Edmunds states, “The V8 significantly changes the sedan’s character compared to the supporting IS 300 and IS 350.” The IS 500 is even quicker than the sporty Mercedes-Benz C 43 as it beats it to 60 mph by almost a full second.  That’s plenty of performance for a small sedan, especially from a brand that’s mainly known for making posh and elegant luxury cars.