The Sport Wagon Enthusiast

A Lexus wagon? Indeed there was one, and for Lexus’s first attempt at a Sport Wagon, they scored par for the course. Certainly no battlewagon, the IS300 (Altezza and AS300 in JDM speak) nevertheless still offered a competitive engine, nimble handling, and sophisticated styling.

The 2JZ-GE in the IS300’s engine bay is the basis for the twin-turbo Toyota Supra, and that’s a wonderful thing if you’re looking to add some snails. From the factory, the 2JZ puts out a healthy 215 bhp at a standard 5,800 rpms. Such output bests competitors like the BMW 325iT’s 187, but falls short of the V70 T5’s 237 horsepower.

The Sportcross’s best features are its sports suspension (independent double wishbone front and rear) and tight handling. Your friends will scarcely believe their riding in a wagon as you blast through those canyon curves. Furthermore, the IS 300 offers a thick and comfortable steering wheel that adds a surprising element of sport to your daily drive. On the styling front another plus are the optional “graphite polished” wheels, which provide needed aggression to the package, and are a must-have unless your plans include aftermarket alloys.

The Sportcross’s pitfalls are primarily drivetrain related. First and foremost is the transmission; unlike the sedan, and JDM AS300’s, buyers only have the option of the 5-speed automatic. This is a deal breaker for enthusiasts, and that’s a shame because the IS300 is really a great overall wagon. Just as troubling for efficiency seekers is the Sportcross’s poor fuel economy. Although the IS300 achieves a normal 18 miles per gallon in the city, it fails on the highway and can only muster 24. This was a non-issue in 2002 when gas was $2 a gallon, but with fuel hovering above $4, buyers may want to choose a more efficient path (Jetta TDI).