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Lexus IS revealed
Date: 21 January 2013 | Author: James Dallas
Lexus has revealed the first pictures of its new-generation IS to coincide with the car's debut at the Detroit motor show this month.
The new model takes its design cue from the brand's LF-CC concept and is 10mm wider (1800mm) and has a 70mm longer wheelbase (2800mm) than its predecessor to provide more cabin space and luggage capacity.
The rear-wheel drive sports saloon is available as a V6-petrol powered IS 250 and a full hybrid IS 300 - the first hybrid IS. Both versions will also be offered with Lexus's F-sport package when they arrive in the UK this summer.
Lexus insisted the prime focus of the IS was to deliver a rewarding driving experience.
Junichi Furuyama, IS chief engineer, said: "Every aspect of the new IS has been engineered with a focus on sporting performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback."
The new IS features the spindle front grille arrangement that has become a hallmark of all new Lexus models and a new headlamp cluster design above Lexus's L-shaped daytime running lights.
The new model has a new Drive Mode Select system, with three switchable driving modes: Eco, Normal and Sport.
Safety features include automatic headlamp high beam operation, lane departure alert, blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert.
For the hybrid IS Lexus has targeted sub-100g/km CO2 emissions and fuel consumption of 65mpg.
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