​The All-New Lexus IS Has Arrived In Singapore, Prices Start From S$198,800

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

The all-new Lexus IS is slated to go on sale right now, with two variants – the IS 300 and IS 350 F Sport – and a third Hybrid variant to come in 2021. Prices start at $198,800 for the IS 300, while the IS 350 F Sport is expected to start at $243,800.

We previously covered some features of Lexus’ new IS line here. Well, as of writing, the cars are finally available on our shores, and here is everything you need to know about them.

Driving

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

Lexus has introduced a new concept called the “Lexus Driving Signature”, and refers to the pursuit of ‘linear operation faithful to drivers’ intentions’. We’ll have to wait until we get our hands on one to find out whether this is a new thing or just PR waffle. Regardless, they’ve said that this will be the development standard for all Lexus models moving forward, so we expect great things.

To chase this new concept, the new IS models were tested at their new testing facility in Shimoyama, Japan, that opened in 2019. The testing facility is touted to replicate many sections of the Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit that carmakers often use for testing and development. Lexus says their facility has allowed them to refine the IS to an even higher standard of performance, comfort, and quality.

The new IS features enhanced body rigidity to ‘eliminate’ any unwanted noise and vibration along with improving steering response. Lexus has also boasted adaptive shock absorbers with ultralow-velocity valves in the pistons to generate appropriate damping force over even minor road imperfections, which they say results in more consistent ride quality and better responsiveness. You also get new 19-inch wheels and tyres on the F Sport and Hybrid for improved handling and grip.

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

The IS 300 comes with a 2-litre, 4-cylinder turbo engine that puts out a healthy 241 horsepower and 350Nm of torque. The IS 350 F Sport, on the other hand, has been given a 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 producing 311 horsepower and 380Nm of torque. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox, although you only get a limited-slip differential in the F Sport model.

Design

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

The new IS line has been redesigned to look more aggressive with a wider and lower stance, more muscular fenders, and a huge new front grille dubbed ‘Spindle Grille’. They’ve also turned the IS into a sleek-looking four-door coupe body style. As is the trend now, the new IS also features a swanky new light bar on the rear. While the IS still looks undeniably Lexus, the design developments have given it more presence and a fiercer look.

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

They’ve given the F Sport variant some exclusive design cues too in the form of an “F” mesh pattern, grille-bottom air intake, specialised 19-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, and an F Sport exclusive ‘Radiant Red Contrast Layering’ exterior panel colour. Lexus has also created two new paint colours, Sonic Iridium and Sonic Chrome, for the new IS line-up.

Interior

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

Lexus continues to have a clean and well-equipped space for the occupants to be in. They’ve improved upon past interiors with the inclusion of a new infotainment system with a 10.3-inch touchscreen display. You also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard in all models.

While the gauge clusters are not fully digital in either model, the IS 350 gets an F Sport-specific cluster to separate it from the IS 300. Additional features the IS 350 F Sport gets over the IS 300 include heated and ventilated front seats, memory seats for the driver, an alternative Sport+ driving mode, and what Lexus is calling “F Sport Smooth Leather” interior.

For those who aren’t big fans of touchscreens for stuff like climate controls, Lexus has also claimed that the capacitive touch controls for temperature adjustment have been reshaped and offer better tactile feel.

New and Improved Safety Features

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

The new IS line is the first in the Lexus range to receive the full suite of features in Lexus’ Safety System+ range of driver aids and hazard detection functions. The IS has improved recognition of oncoming pedestrians or vehicles when making right-hand turns and can execute the safety responses consisting of warning, brake assistance, and full braking if needed.

In the event where the possibility of a collision has been detected, and the driver has begun steering to avoid it, the IS is able to provide steering assistance to help the driver avoid the collision.

All IS models will also come standard with radar-guided cruise control that can be used in stop-and-go traffic too. The updated cruise control system also incorporates ‘Curve Speed Reduction’ that detects upcoming turns and adjusts speed accordingly. It’ll also detect your turn signal inputs to accelerate a little in preparation of a lane change.

(Photo Credit: Lexus)

The cruise control system also works together with what Lexus calls “Lane Tracing Assist” that detects when you’re straying from your lane and gives you a warning either visually, audibly, or through a steering wheel vibration. It will also see how the vehicle in front of you is driving to help keep your vehicle centred in its lane when the road markings are not clear.

All in all, the new Lexus IS line-up looks very promising, but we’ll have to wait until we get our hands on it to have a better look.

Check out its virtual launch below:

Read More: Lexus Debuts the All-New 2021 IS Sports Sedan

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