Lexus launches sharp looking, new-generation IS sedan

In the compact executive sedan niche, Lexus has for the past 20 years offered a competitor in the form of the IS to challenge the likes of BMW’s 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.

With the new-generation Lexus IS launched this week, the brand promises better manoeuvrability and riding comfort. At 4,705mm it is also 39mm longer than the car it replaces.

“We retained the compact body and aimed to make the new IS a Lexus compact sports sedan that provides high-quality ride comfort while offering a high level of vehicle control,” said Lexus international chief engineer Naoki Kobayashi.

The engine line up is unchanged. Power is provided by an 180kW and 350Nm 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine for the IS 300 model mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and sending power to the rear axle. The other IS 300 model gets all-wheel drive and is powered by a 3.5l V6 with outputs of 194kW and 320Nm via a six-speed automatic transmission.

It’s an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system with a standard 30:70 front/rear power split. Lexus says if driving conditions call for it the split can be 50/50.

The IS 350 makes a return in RWD or AWD guise and is powered by a higher output 3.5l V6 that wields 231kW and 369Nm. Choose the RWD and you stoke the engine with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission while the all-paw traction model uses a six-speed automatic. The IS 350 RWD does 5.6 seconds to 100km/h and IS 350 AWD scores 5.7 seconds to the same mark.

The company also launches an improved version of its Pre-Collision System in conjunction with the latest Lexus Safety System+ system. It now gives better detection of pedestrians in low-light conditions, whether cycling or crossing the street. There’s also Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) that keeps the IS inside its lane through the use of AI technologies and cameras.

Furthermore, there’s also an automatic high beam function to assist with illumination during night-time driving. Inside the cabin there will be a new touchscreen multimedia system and other enhancements in luxury.

The new IS looks more menacing than its predecessor. The spindle grille is recognisably larger now and features a three-dimensional structure, with plastic mesh creating a sporty impression.

The F Sport version is differentiated through an exclusive and wilder “F” mesh grille pattern and a bottom air intake as well as a unique set of 19-inch alloy wheels. There’s also a rear spoiler and an exclusive radiant red interior for the F Sport.

Have the F Sport with a new Dynamic Handling Package (DHP) and the car gets adaptive suspension, Sport + added to its drive mode selector for sportier engine, transmission and damper settings, carbon fibre trimmed rear spoiler and mirror caps and lighter BBS alloy wheels. The RWD F Sport model also gets a limited-slip differential for better cornering performance 

The new Lexus IS will be available for sale in SA early in 2021 and the range will comprise three model derivatives which Lexus SA will announce at launch. They will arrive boasting a seven-year warranty and a maintenance plan as standard.

• This article was originally published by the Business Day. Read more content like this at the Business Day website.