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The start point for the best source of fleet information
18in alloys (F Sport and above), sports steering wheel (F Sport and above), sport seats (Premier and above), adaptive dampers (Premier and above), premium sound system (Premier and above), blind-spot protection/cross-traffic alert (Premier and above)
Engines:
Petrol: 223hp 2.5 hybrid, 241hp 2.0T
Trims:
SE, Executive Edition, Sport, Advance, Luxury, F Sport, Premier
Transmissions:
8-speed CVT automatic
Lexus's IS compact exec has never succeeded in threatening the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes, but despite selling in limited numbers the car has remained, over the past 18 years and three generations, a smart, stylish, well-finished saloon that's a breath of fresh air beside its rivals.
In the flesh, it's hard to imagine why the IS has been so neglected; even three years into the current model's life its design still feels fresh. It's no surprise then, for its mid-life makeover, the car only gets the lightest of nip and tucks.
Step inside and the classy, minimalistic cabin continues to impress, with improved materials, a larger 10.3-inch infotainment system and a revised user interface.
Most of the changes have taken place beneath the skin, with engineers giving the revamped IS a comprehensively reworked suspension that's claimed to improve the ride, handling, straight-line stability and steering feel.
Two engine choices
There are just two engines on offer: a 241hp 2.0-litre turbo (IS200t) and a far more efficient 2.5-litre hybrid that produces a punchy 223hp (IS300h).
On paper at least, it's the latter that makes the most sense for fleets, thanks to its electrically-assisted powertrain. The most efficient version can average 67.3mpg (on 16-inch wheels) and emits just 97g/km of CO2.
For fit and finish, the IS remains top notch overall and the range-topping F Sport's new sport seats are comfortable and supportive too. It's just a shame that the mouse-like controller for the updated infotainment system is as awkward to use as before.
Driving impressions
On the move, the steering has noticeably improved over the previous iteration and Lexus has narrowed the gap between it and the BMW 3 Series for driving involvement.
Despite claims of best-in-class refinement, the Lexus allows a little too much wind and road noise into the cabin and, despite those suspension upgrades, the ride remains on the firm side.
BMW and Mercedes have now recently introduced their own hybrid versions of the 3 Series and C-Class and unlike the Lexus they rely on plug-in technology that allows a pure-electric range of around 30 miles - enough for most short commutes.
This means, in terms of official figures, they beat the IS for both emissions and fuel consumption hands-down.
They're both better to drive than the Lexus too and have traditional automatic gearboxes, rather than the artificial-feeling CVT that IS300h drivers have to endure.
It's a shame because post-facelift, the IS is more visually attractive than the predictable Germans, but it just doesn't make much financial sense for businesses.