It was in 1998 when Japanese carmaker Lexus introduced the IS to its lineup as a compact executive sedan. Since then, the Lexus IS has evolved to become a premium model with explicit design refinements, while preserving the premium characteristics of the first-gen model.
Lexus IS
The first-gen Lexus IS already made a lot of noise in the design department as it received critical acclaim from car buyers and international motoring presses. As a result, it was crowned Japan’s Car of the Year in 1998, which is one astounding way to make an initial impression in the market.
First-gen Lexus IS
Five years later after its release, the compact executive sedan got a minor facelift. It was given some reworks on the 11-spoke wheel design, fog lamps, headlamps, and taillights. Few updates have been made as well in the interior to improve functionality.
The second-gen Lexus IS arrived in 2005 that offers a sharper and angular appearance from the front to the back. It carried over the executive sedan details from the first-gen model while adding significant sporty details that helped it define who it is today.
Second-gen Lexus IS
To further enhance the sporty nature of the nameplate, the Japanese automaker unveiled the IS F in 2006, a performance-oriented trim from the brand. This generation is also where the Japanese luxury carmaker discontinued the inline-six engines and introduced V6 units instead.
And in 2013, the third-gen Lexus IS made its debut, showcasing what top-notch designers from Lexus can offer. It is designed with the brand’s spindle grille up front, while sharp character lines are added around the vehicle.
Third-gen Lexus IS
According to Lexus, the third-gen IS is developed to not only improve the overall design but also to refine the desired car ownership of each driver. All IS models are crafted with Lexus Driving Signature that aims to provide exhilarating driving.
Today, the latest Lexus IS was born and bred at the Shimoyama Technical Center Test Track. The Japanese executive sedan has been tested on the most challenging roads to help engineers further improve its performance capabilities.
“With the aim of making ever-better cars, we have continued to make various efforts in ‘feeling the road’ and ‘conversing with cars’ through driving tests around the world, including our Five Continent Drive Project and Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race,” said Lexus Master Driver Akio Toyoda.
“Based on such experiences, we have replicated a variety of roads in the world at the new test course. In addition to conducting driving tests all over the world, and with the replication of severe driving conditions at the new test course, we intend to thoroughly hone every one of our models and develop the types of cars that epitomize the true joy of driving,” added Toyoda.
The nameplate has evolved significantly since 1998
The current Lexus IS F Sport is powered by a naturally-aspirated V6 engine capable of generating 300 hp and 380 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the IS 300h uses a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder hybrid engine paired to Lexus’ E-CVT to maximize efficiency on the go.
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Know more about Lexus IS 2024
The Lexus IS, which stands for Intelligent Support according to the Lexus car brand, is a compact and premium executive sedan. Locally, it has three variants. The 300h Executive is priced at Php 3,268,000, the 300h Premier is priced at Php 3,528,000, and the top-spec 350 F Sport can be had for 4,288,000.
Available engines for the Philippine-spec IS include a 3.5-liter V6 for the F Sport and a 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid for the Premier and Executive trims. For the top-spec F Sport, its engine is capable of making up to 311 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. It then uses an eight-speed automatic gearbox sending power to its rear. For the hybrid versions, it's 2.5-liter and electric motor can produce a combined output of 220 horsepower and 221 Nm of torque. It then uses a continuously variable gearbox.
When it comes to size, the Lexus IS is 4,710mm long, 1,840mm wide, and 1,453mm in height. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,800mm and a ground clearance of 140mm.
>>> New and used Lexus IS 2024 for sale in the Philippines
Lexus IS Launch
The Lexus IS was originally offered under the name Toyota Altezza. After acquiring a new identity in 1998, Lexus made it available in the market as a shortened, midsize sedan that permits its Japanese customers to have an advantage of the imposed tax savings regulated by their government in buying larger vehicles.
In March 2005, its second-generation pre-production model was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. In April of the same year, the production version was launched at the New York International Auto Show.
Its third-generation concept was revealed at the 2012 Paris Motor Show and at the 2013 Auto Shanghai. Its final version was launched at the North American International Auto Show.
In June 2020, Lexus Philippines officially brought in an updated Lexus IS to our local shores.
Lexus IS Exterior
All variants of the new Lexus IS measure 4,710mm long, 1,840mm wide, and 1,435mm tall. Its front bears the company’s signature spindle grille with a three-dimensional effect, a pair of LED headlamps, and LED daytime running lights. Its body is made more athletic with a chiseled shoulder line. At the rear, a striking full-width LED taillight and LED fog lamps complement its nicely shaped bumpers. The Lexus IS 350 F Sport is upgraded with a power moonroof that provides natural lighting inside the cabin. Providing support for this premium sedan is a set of 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels.
Lexus IS Interior
The trim of its interior is either wood or the car brand’s F sport aluminum depending on the variant. Standard features include leather-wrapped seats built with eight-way memory support, efficient seat ventilation, paddle shifters, dual-zone air condition system, rear armrest with cupholders, and rear-view window with electrochromic auto-dimming.
Technology & Safety Features
The Lexus IS 350 F Sport is fitted with a 10.3-inch Electro Multi-Vision that displays various information while other trims come with an 8-inch display.
In terms of safety, both variants are equipped with a generous number of SRS airbags, an anti-lock braking system, vehicle stability control, hill start assist, traction control, child lock protection, reverse sensors, and rain-sensing wipers. Also included is a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane trace assist, and lane departure assist, among others.
Platform & Chassis
All variants of the Lexus IS are fitted with a Double Wishbone front suspension and a multi-link suspension at the rear. Braking power is by ventilated disc brakes for all four wheels.
Engine & Drivetrain
The Philippine-spec IS uses a 3.5-liter V6 for the F Sport, and a 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid for the Premier and Executive trims. On the top-spec F Sport, its V6 mill can generate 311 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. It then uses an eight-speed automatic gearbox sending power to its rear. The hybrid versions meanwhile use a 2.5-liter and electric motor that can churn out a combined output of 220 horsepower and 221 Nm of torque. It then uses a continuously variable gearbox.
Lexus IS 2024 Price List
| Variants | Price |
|---|---|
| Lexus IS 300h Executive | ₱3,268,000 |
| Lexus IS 300h Premier | ₱3,528,000 |
| Lexus IS 350 F-Sport | ₱4,228,000 |
₱ 2,948,000 - ₱ 4,178,000
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