Lexus PH launches facelifted, track-tuned IS sedan for 2021

After releasing teasers, and subsequently making its global debut in June 2020, the Lexus finally introduces the latest iteration of the IS sedan to the Philippine market. The 2021 Lexus IS, however, is a facelift. Regardless, Lexus says that they have given the new IS a fresh new look, as well as new high-tech features inside and out.

Exterior

Starting off with its front, Lexus’ signature spindle grille replaced the horizontal slats found on the previous version. On either side of the said grille are sharper-looking LED headlamps, which come with sleeker integrated LED daytime running lamps. Down below, the facelifted IS has also been given a more angular looking bumper.

The all-new 2021 Lexus IS

Moving over towards the rear, the new Lexus IS was also provided with a new bumper. The blacked-out portions on the rear are also now more prominent. As was revealed in the earlier 2021 Lexus IS teasers, the rear tail lamps are now conjoined, forming a strip that crosses the length of the rear end.

From the side, the facelifted IS was also given a new set of 19-inch wheels, with several other designs available. The Lexus IS’s very recognizable character line is still there, but it appears that it’s less prominent now compared to the previous IS version.

Inside

Inside, the facelifted Lexus IS also gets several updates. There are the new piano black pieces, and the eight-inch touchscreen has been repositioned to sit on top of the dashboard for more visibility and easier reach. The said head unit has also been given a newer version of the Lexus Remote Touch interface.

Inside the Lexus IS 350 F Sport

There’s also a larger 10.3-inch touchscreen, and red-colored upholstery available to the IS F Sport variant. Other than those changes, the facelifted Lexus IS’ interior still retains the same interior layout and design as the previous version.

Powertrains

There are two powertrain options for the facelifted IS. If you want to sit in the lap of luxury while having access to more power when you want it, there’s the 3.5-liter V6 gasoline mill. The said engine is capable of making up to 310 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear through an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The V6 Lexus IS can also become fun to drive daily

If you want to use the IS as a fairly economical daily, then you might want to lean towards the 2.5-liter hybrid mill available on the 300h Premier variant. Its internal combustion component is capable of delivering up to 178 horsepower and 221 Nm of torque.

The said engine is then paired to an electric motor, which can produce up to 141 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. Combined, the said powerplant can produce 220 horsepower. Unlike the V6 variant, the hybrid version uses an electronic-continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). Power is also sent for the rear for the Lexus IS 300h Premier.

>>> Related: How Lexus designs are so influenced by Japanese cultures

Safety

For safety, the new IS gets significantly more than its predecessor. Case in point: the latest version of Lexus Safety System+2 that it comes with. For those who are not aware, this is Lexus’ proprietary array of driver-assist features. This includes automatic high beams, full-speed radar-guided dynamic cruise control, and lane tracing assist.

So, do you like the 2021 Lexus IS?

Price

The 2021 Lexus IS has two variants. The more affordable one is the IS 300h Hybrid, which starts at Php 3,328,000. The sportier one is the IS 350 F Sport, which starts at Php 3,808,000.

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