The Lexus IS started off as a rebadged model of the Toyota Altezza way back in 1999 until 2005; so if you are looking for Toyota Altezza 2016 for sale, for example, the keyword you need to use is Lexus IS 2016. It is introduced as an entry-level sport model in Lexus’ lineup. For the 2021 model, Lexus introduced the IS with its second facelift.
Looking at the 2021 model for the first time, it appears to be showing plenty of updates. The new Lexus IS comes with restyled headlights with triple-beam LED headlights as an option.
It also comes with a full-width LED taillight bar that seems to be the likely trend in today’s auto scene. The brand’s signature spindle grill got larger giving the new IS a more aggressive visual.
The new design updates gave the IS a sportier look
>>> Related: 2021 Lexus IS sedan teased ahead of June debut
New 18-inch wheels come standard on lower trims while new 19-inch BBS wheels are equipped with its Sport variant. Aesthetically speaking, the IS still gives a distinct Lexus design despite having new and muscular body profiles.
Under the hood, however, could be a disappointment to some as the 2021 model was rumored to be equipped with a V8 engine found on the Lexus GS F. Rather, the IS still uses the exact engine from its previous model.
How do you like its new Circuit Red interior color?
>>> Related: Lexus IS 350 2020 Philippines Review: A perfect balance of luxury and speed
The base rear-wheel-drive IS 300 uses a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 241 hp and 386 Nm of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
On the other hand, the all-wheel-drive IS 300 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 hp and 320 Nm of torque that is coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The top-spec rear-wheel-drive IS 350 uses the same 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 311 hp and 380 Nm of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Inside, it kept most of its interior design other than the new circular air vents, restyled trim in the door cards, and new stitching across the dash. It also comes with a new Circuit Red interior color, and a new HVAC panel. The touchpad and cupholders have also been rearranged.
Needless to say, this instantly leaves a sport sedan impression
Tech features of the IS received a significant amount of updates. The 2021 Lexus IS comes with a standard eight-inch infotainment touchscreen that is now configured closer to the driver by three inches.
It also comes with an optional 10.3-inch touchscreen. Both infotainment systems can be navigated using a touchpad and support Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa.
With no remarkable performance updates, it will be interesting to see how the new Lexus IS will compete in the sport sedan market. The Lexus IS is expected to go on sale in late 2020 with its official pricing yet to be disclosed.
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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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