TORONTO: The Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 are the most economical luxury cars available from $36,159 in the markets. All new Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 are categorized with an electronically controlled engine, which has a 2.5 liter V8 capacity with eight-speed.
IS models also have top of- the-line features such as a Remote Touch controller, a seven-inch display screen, satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity.
A new Drive Mode Select system features up to five driving modes. The IS 250 and IS 350 feature ECO, NORMAL and SPORT modes. The IS 350 F SPORT adds drive modes SPORT S and SPORT S+. These modes are tailored to meet a driver’s preferred combination of economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics.
The third-generation of the IS sport sedan made its debut last year. It continues with a bold design highlighted by the signature spindle grille and separated LED Daytime Running Lights. A combination of “aggressive elegance,” a more powerful road presence and a stronger brand identity help make the IS models more appealing.
The Lexus IS delivers a more dynamic driving experience with enhanced stability and body control while delivering improved ride comfort. New, laser-screw welding and adhesive body-bonding techniques, along with additional spot welding, have made the higher rigidity of the body possible. An all-new multilink rear suspension, revised front suspension and steering derived from the GS sedan, have been adapted to the smaller IS package.
Models
Two IS models are available — the IS 250 and IS 350. The IS 250 is powered by a smooth 2.5-liter V-6 providing 204 hp and 185 pounds-feet of torque. The engine is matched to a six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) with a sequential manual-shifting mode and rev matched downshifts in the SPORT mode.
Under the Hood
The IS 350 gets a 3.5-liter V-6 with D4-S direct and port fuel injection. The 3.5 engine produces 306 hp and 277 pounds-feet of torque. The IS 350 inherits the eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission from the IS F high-performance model. This transmission has paddle shifters and the G-force Artificial Intelligence (G-AI) system, which automatically selects the optimum gear and downshift pattern in response to G force.
Available for both IS models, an electronically controlled all-weather drive system is designed to give better traction and grip under all driving conditions by automatically varying front-to-rear torque balance from 50:50 to as much as 30:70.