2021 Lexus IS

10 December 2020

1. NEW LEXUS IS SPORTS SEDAN AUSTRALIAN LINEUP UNVEILED
2. EVOCATIVE DESIGN REIMAGINES THE SPORTS SEDAN CONCEPT
3. IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY THAT WELCOMES YOU
4. IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY THAT CAN PROTECT YOU
5. UPGRADED POWERTRAINS DELIVER LEADING DRIVING DYNAMICS
6. STRONGER BODY, WIDER TRACKS AND LIGHTER SUSPENSION DELIVER LEADING DRIVING DYNAMICS
7. 2021 LEXUS IS SPECIFICATIONS

NEW LEXUS IS SPORTS SEDAN AUSTRALIAN LINEUP UNVEILED

The Australian lineup for the reimagined new Lexus IS sports sedan has been unveiled, delivering a new level of luxury as standard in addition to a core focus on evocative design, imaginative technology and leading dynamics.

Starting from $61,500¹, the new IS starts within $1,000 of the highly regarded outgoing model despite offering significant new standard specification firsts.

Five 'Lexus firsts' in Australia become standard on all grades, including intersection turning assist⁴, emergency steering assist⁴, automated collision notification⁹, SOS call¹⁰ and stolen vehicle tracking¹¹.

Other features that become standard on the Lexus IS for the first time include 18-inch alloy wheels (replacing 17-inch), an electric park brake (replacing foot-operated), new 10.3-inch touch-display with Apple CarPlay®² and Android Auto™³, a Pre-Collision System⁴ featuring daytime/nightime pedestrian detection plus daytime cyclist detection, all-speed Active Cruise Control⁴, Lane Tracing Assist⁴, Road Sign Assist⁴, Blind-Spot Monitor⁴, Parking Support Brake⁴ and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert+Brake⁴.

This is an addition to smart entry and start, heated and 8-way power adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, 10-speaker audio, DAB+⁵, satellite navigation with SUNA⁶ live traffic, voice control and LED headlamps with automatic high-beam⁴.

The significant expansion of leading luxury and driver assist technology is further leveraged by enhanced body rigidity, lighter suspension components and a wider front and rear track - all coming together as the first Lexus tuned at the company's new purpose-built 'mini Nurburgring' test facility in Shimoyama, Japan.

The new IS sports sedan lineup includes the IS 300 Luxury powered by a 180kW and 350Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is now Euro 6 emissions compliant.

It includes a retuned eight-speed automatic for more intuitive response and engaging performance.

For an additional $3000 - from $64,500¹ - the IS 300h Luxury delivers the innovative Lexus self-charging hybrid electric system combining a 221Nm 2.5-litre normally aspirated four-cylinder engine and 300Nm electric motor.

It achieves a combined 133kW and combined-cycle fuel consumption from as low as 5.1 litres per 100 kilometres⁸.

IS 300 Luxury and IS 300h Luxury customers can select a $2000-optional Enhancement Pack featuring a moonroof.

Alternatively, IS 300 Luxury and IS 300h Luxury customers can select a $5,500-optional Enhancement Pack 2 combining a moonroof with 19-inch alloy wheels, hi-grade LED headlamps, leather-accented seat trim, ventilated front seats, driver memory settings, 17-speaker Mark Levinson®⁷ audio and power rear sunshade.

The alluring and assertive IS F Sport is available across $70,000¹ IS 300 F Sport, $73,000¹ IS 300h F Sport and $75,000¹ IS 350 F Sport grades.

Befitting the status of the new IS as a focused driver's car, the IS 350 is singularly available as an F Sport grade for the first time.

The IS 350 boasts the acclaimed Lexus 3.5-litre normally aspirated V6 petrol engine with 232kW and 380Nm.

Along with the IS 300, it shares a reworked eight-speed automatic transmission.

For the first time on an IS F Sport, 19-inch alloy wheels are standard, in addition to an F Sport bodykit and spoiler, F Sport scuff plates and ornamentation, hi-grade LED headlamps, four-mode Drive Select (Eco, Normal, Sport S and Sport S+), adaptive variable suspension, F Sport leather-accented trim, sports pedals and seats, driver memory settings, ventilated front seats and an LFA-style 8.0-inch TFT driver display.

IS 300 F Sport, IS 300h F Sport and IS 350 F Sport customers can select a $3,100-optional Enhancement Pack offering a moonroof, 17-speaker Mark Levinson®⁷ audio and power rear sunshade.

Lexus Australia Chief Executive Scott Thompson said the new Lexus IS will reinvigorate the medium sedan class with its stunning focus on three key attributes.

"An intense focus on evocative design, imaginative technology and leading driving dynamics will help ensure a new generation of Lexus customers are welcomed into IS sports sedan ownership," Mr Thompson said.

"The sports focus of the new IS, alongside the luxurious ES, together deliver two distinct personalities for Lexus customers to select from in this segment."

The IS sports sedan and ES luxury sedan have together increased the Lexus share of the medium luxury sedan segment - from 7.3% in 2018, to 8.1% in 2019 and 9.8% so far (to November) in 2020.

New Lexus IS - pricing

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EVOCATIVE DESIGN REIMAGINES THE SPORTS SEDAN CONCEPT

The new Lexus IS reimagines the sports sedan concept with an evocative design centred around the theme 'Agile & Provocative'.

This design theme for the new IS pursues an agile, wide and low impression, maximising the redesigned suspension and classical rear-wheel-drive proportions to reflect the core engineering focus of leading driving dynamics for the new model.

Compared with the previous IS, the body is 30mm wider - and this additional width is entirely delivered by broader and bolder wheelarch flares for the new IS. At the same time the new bonnet is more sharply raked towards its leading edge and more compact headlamps are positioned 43mm lower than before, further drawing the eye closer to the ground to emulate the presence of a sports coupe.

The headlamps are slimmer in construction, featuring trademark-Lexus L-shaped daytime running lamps (DRLs) that draw vertically from the centre at an angle towards the grille, then horizontally at an angle out towards the wheelarches.

IS Luxury and IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 1 variants include compact single-projector LED headlamp units that are 57% of the size of the previous IS and portray a sophisticated image.

IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 2 and all IS F Sport variants gain ultra-slim high-grade tri-projector LED headlamp units that are 53% of the size of the Lexus LC sports coupe on which they are based, with squared-off bezels that create a technical impression.

The smaller headlamp design also visually contrasts with the larger volume of the bolder front wheelarch flares, lending focus to the overall width of the vehicle.

The trademark-Lexus 'spindle' grille is where 'agile' meets 'provocative'.

The overall surface of the grille folds back above and below the Lexus badge, creating a three-dimensional effect that emphasises the appearance of a vehicle moving at speed through the air.

The lower section of the grille draws out much wider than where it meets the grille, drawing the eye downwards, to underscore the low centre of gravity of this sports sedan.

IS Luxury variants combine spindle motif block shapes and mesh to express a sense of sharp precision. Chrome plating has been used on the sides of the spindle frame to emphasise the spindle shape and add further elegance.

IS F Sport variants strengthen their dynamic image with an exclusive, interwoven mesh pattern for the front spindle grille, which varies in design from a dense pattern towards the bonnet line to a broader weave at the grille's lowest edge.

Along with piano-black framing for the spindle grille that becomes thickest at its lowest edge, and RC F-inspired vertical air intakes that draw the eye towards the front wheelarch flares, these elements further emphasise width at the lowest parts of the IS F Sport.

Provocative forms continue along the side of the new IS, demonstrated by the interplay of horizontal surfacing across widened guards and the angular, horizontal then vertical side character crease across the lower front then upper rear doors.

The side character crease on the rear door matches the bold, chrome treatment across the rearmost edge of the rear door window line, drawing attention to the sharply raked rear roofline designed to emulate the sleekness of a sports coupe.

Compared with the previous IS, the new rear roofline is 15mm lower, leading to a bootline that is 31mm lower.

At the rear, the low bootlid incorporates a wrap-around, angular design that blends with bold wheelarch flares to project agility even from behind.

Rear combination lamps that feature a signature L-shaped lightbar across the lateral axis and a broad rear diffuser further add emphasis on width to create a sports sedan with the rear-facing stance of a coupe.

IS F Sport variants can be distinguished by a piano-black rear lip spoiler and diffuser, unique dual-exhaust tips and - at the side - exclusive 19-inch F Sport alloy wheels and F Sport front guard badging.

IS Luxury and IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 1 variants include 18-inch alloy wheels, compared with a 17-inch design on the previous IS, while the IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 2 boasts a technical multi-spoke 19-inch alloy wheel design.

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IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY THAT WELCOMES YOU

An advanced cabin design and flagship new technology combine with unrivalled Lexus craftsmanship and quality inside the new IS.

The new Lexus IS continues the pedigree of its acclaimed forebears with a low and engaging driving position that reflects dynamics closely aligned to a sports coupe.

Seats that provide lush padding, immersive side support and impressive adjustability - courtesy of multi-way power adjustable front seats standard across the range - combine with the availability of soft and supple, high-grade leather-accented trim on IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 2 and all IS F Sport variants.

From the crucial, sporty seating position, the driver - and front passenger - can reach out and experience the depth of materials and immersive textures befitting a luxury Lexus with the expected demand for class-leading attention to detail.

This includes a thickly padded centre console lid and door armrests, exquisite soft-touch trim materials used alongside the console and flanking the centre stack, in addition to the expected sense of craftsmanship and tightness of panel fit.

The technical detail of the slimline air vents and analogue clock panel is now aligned to the current RC sports coupe, as is the electric-operated (replacing foot-operated) park brake. The dual-zone climate control and audio panel also feature a stylish and sophisticated new piano-black fascia.

New ornamentation including redesigned door trim inserts complement a newly designed upper dashboard with rich materials, circular outboard air vents and intricate stitching across the passenger-side panel.

The new upper dashboard introduces a two-tone design theme to the new IS, enabling luxury customers greater choice to match their preferred exterior colour with the interior trim that aligns to their individual taste.

For IS Luxury variants, options include a black upper and lower dash with a choice of black or dark rose trim¹. An ochre upper and black lower dash treatment has been introduced for the first time, complementing the ochre seat trim¹.

For IS F Sport variants, options include F Sport black, F Sport white and for the first time F Sport flare red, all complemented by new, technical satin chrome ornamentation¹ - which includes fine laser-cut hairlines to maximise the authentic feel of the plate material and create an intelligent and sharp impression.

The compact, leather-accented steering wheel also gains a new hub design, with perforations and exclusive badging for IS F Sport variants.

IS F Sport variants also include exclusive F Sport seats with standard ventilation, and F Sport scuff plates and pedals - plus an advanced 8.0-inch TFT driver display screen inspired by the LFA supercar, leveraging further the colour trip computer display with digital speedometer standard across the IS range.

A new 10.3-inch widescreen has also been introduced as standard across the IS range, positioned 150mm closer than before and with touch-display functionality employed for the first time compared with the previous IS.

This enables all new IS owners to interact with the high-grade graphics and intuitive menus via a short reach to the touch-display screen for maximum ease of use.

The high-resolution widescreen can also be used in conjunction with the latest Lexus Remote-Touch pad interface and the latest advanced voice control systems in the new IS for maximum choice and usability.

The new Lexus Remote-Touch interface is positioned on the newly designed centre console, which incorporates a 65mm-wide and 62mm-tall touchpad featuring frameless construction and haptic feedback.

Surrounding the Lexus Remote-Touch interface are "map", "menu" and "back" buttons joined by a "sub function" switch that can display functions for applications such as air-conditioning and navigation - further improving accessibility.

Apple CarPlay®² and Android™ Auto³ compatibility, DAB+ digital radio⁴ and voice control are standard.

Voice control functionality allows the driver to effortlessly "speak" to the vehicle while driving, to select a phonebook contact to dial (where a smartphone is Bluetooth-connected) and a destination address to enter into the navigation in 'one shot'.

IS Luxury, IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 1 and IS F Sport variants employ a premium 10-speaker Pioneer audio system. Compared with the previous IS, the audio amplifier has been changed to further enhance sound quality and realise sound as though the artist is singing live in front of the listener.

IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 2 and IS F Sport with Enhancement Pack variance receive a 17-speaker, 1,800-watt Mark Levinson®⁵ Premium Surround Sound System.

Compared with the previous 15-speaker, 835-watt system, these new IS variants deliver a new high watermark for hi-fidelity and immersive sound to delight Lexus audio enthusiasts.

Befitting a medium luxury sedan, the new IS also boasts impressive space for three occupants across a rear seat that prioritises a depth of support across the seat base, impressive tilt to aid under-thigh support, a centre armrest with flock-lined storage compartment - and rear air vents for maximum comfort.

For IS 300 and IS 350 models, a 60:40 split-fold rear-seat enhances practicality beyond the standard 480-litre boot volume, while the IS 300h incorporates its rear-mounted underfloor battery efficiently to provide an impressive 450-litre capacity.


¹ Lexus Australia reserves the right to vary or discontinue the current interior and exterior colours, trims and colour/trim/model combinations. Colours and trims displayed are a guide only and may vary from actual colours due to printing/display process. See your Lexus dealer to confirm availability when ordering your vehicle.
² CarPlay® is a trademark of Apple, Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries.
³ Android Auto™ is a trademark of Google LLC.
⁴ Coverage dependent on vehicle location.
⁵ Product & company names are trademarks of their respective owners.

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IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY THAT CAN PROTECT YOU

The new IS debuts several safety technology 'Lexus firsts', equalling or exceeding the driver assist features featured in the current flagship Lexus LS.

At the same time a comprehensive list of intuitive Lexus Safety System+¹ technology has been standardised across the new IS range, ensuring the latest Lexus sports sedan leverages imaginative technology - a key pillar for its model development.

Standard for the first time on new IS are several new or upgraded elements as part of this expanded, comprehensive Lexus Safety System+¹. The development concept of this extensive suite of safety technologies is to actively provide leading preventative safety performance for the purpose of further reducing accidents.

New 'Lexus first' features of the Lexus Safety System+¹ include Intersection Turning Assist (ITA) and Emergency Steering Assist (ESA).

ITA can intuitively assist the driver by providing a warning and automatic braking if the driver turns in front of an oncoming vehicle when turning right - for example, at a four-way intersection to complete a manoeuvre across traffic into a cross road.

ITA can also assist the driver by providing a warning and automatic braking if the driver attempts to turn in front a pedestrian when turning left or right - for example, a pedestrian crossing the road on either side of a four-way intersection.

ITA can operate when the Pre-Collision System (PCS) function is active and a turn signal is active. It can activate a warning if the vehicle is travelling between approximately 10 and 25km/h for both oncoming vehicles and pedestrians. It can activate a warning if an oncoming vehicle is travelling approximately between 30 and 55km/h, while it can activate braking if the oncoming vehicle is travelling between approximately 30 and 45km/h.

ESA can intuitively support the driver in an emergency situation where the driver initiates an evasive steering manourvre - for example, to avoid a preceding or stopped vehicle, pedestrian or cyclist. If the driver performs a steering operation to the same direction as the system's intention, the system can provide additional steering torque to help the driver swerve around the obstacle, while it can also help prevent lane departure.

ESA requires three conditions to be met: the system judges a possibility of a collision, the system judges the additional assistance can be effective, and the system finds an evasive course within the vehicle's current traffic lane.

ESA can operate when the Pre-Collision System (PCS) function is active and the vehicle is travelling between approximately 40 and 80km/h. The relative speed to the detected object must also be between approximately 40 and 80km/h.

Both ITA and ESA further build on the latest Pre-Collision System (PCS) that for the first time on IS supports both day- and night-time pedestrian detection plus daytime cyclist detection.

PCS can support forward impact mitigation functions including pre-collision warning (from approximately 10 to 180km/h), pre-collision brake assist (from approximately 30 to 80km/h with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, or approximately 30 to 180km/h with a detected preceding or stopped vehicle), and pre-collision braking (from approximately 10 to 80km/h with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, or approximately 10 to 180km/h with a detected preceding or stopped vehicle).

PCS also works in conjunction with the standard Radar Active Cruise Control (RACC), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Road Sign Assist (RSA) functions.

RACC features full-speed range capability for the first time on IS, with low-speed traffic following including stop-start driving from standstill back to a preset speed.

Demonstrating the intuition of the latest Lexus systems, RACC employs 'blinker-linked' control that above approximately 80km/h can detect when a driver is indicating from behind a vehicle into a lane with no vehicle detected, and begin preliminary acceleration to the preset speed before the lane-change occurs.

RACC also includes a driver-selectable curve-speed reduction function that can reduce the vehicle speed when the system determines that the speed needs to be reduced during an upcoming curve in the road, which can improve safety and reduce driver burden. When this is operating an icon featuring a diamond and road curve illuminate in the trip computer display. When deceleration control is finished the icon will disappear and the vehicle will automatically return to the set speed or the safest speed according to the situation.

Road Sign Assist (RSA) further works with RACC, which can detect speed signs and then illuminate the designated speed in the trip computer display. The driver can link RACC (when in vehicle-to-vehicle control mode) with RSA by pressing and holding the +RES switch if the speed limit is higher than the vehicle speed setting - or pressing and holding the -SET switch if the speed limit becomes lower. This enables the vehicle speed setting to be easily reset in accordance with the speed limit.

More advanced Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), which works when RACC is active, also joins other measures including RACC's curve-speed reduction function and Emergency Steering Assist in reducing the chance of departure from a lane or road.

LTA can partially assist steering operation to help avoid departure from the lane or road when driving on expressways.

LTA recognition and control performance has been enhanced to enable partial steering assistance on gentle curves while also smoothly keeping the vehicle in the centre of the lane with minimal swaying. The system enables use at vehicle speeds all the way to when the vehicle is nearly stopped in consideration of congestion on expressways.

LTA can now recognise and judge the possibility of deviation from the road using not only white or yellow lane markings but also boundary lines between asphalt and grass, soil or kerb stones. If the system judges the vehicle is deviating from its lane or the road and there is a risk of collision with an overtaking vehicle in the next lane, the steering assist function can also operate to help avoid collision with a nearby vehicle - even if the turn signal is operating.

Rounding out the Lexus Safety System+¹ is automatic high beam (AHB) standard on all new IS models.

In addition to the Lexus Safety System+ suite, the new IS features Parking Support Brake (PKSB)¹ and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert + Brake (RCTA+B)¹, which can provide a warning and automatic braking should a forward static object or rear static object or crossing vehicle be detected when travelling below 15km/h.

The new IS further features a Blind-Spot Monitor (BSM)¹, forward and Intellgent Clearance Sonars, a reversing camera on IS Luxury and IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 1, and panoramic view monitor on IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 2 and all IS F Sport variants.

The new IS also becomes the first Lexus in Australia to debut Lexus Connected Services, including automated collision notification², SOS call³ and stolen vehicle tracking⁴ as standard.

Lexus Connected Services employs a Data Control Module (DCM) that is able to automatically generate an SOS emergency call to a 24/7 Lexus Emergency Call Centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag deploys².

The driver can also request emergency assistance via an SOS button on the overhead console and if the vehicle is reported stolen³, Lexus Connected Services can assist authorities to help track the vehicle's location via the Stolen Vehicle Tracking (SVT) service⁴.


¹ Driver assist feature. Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner's Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.
² Driver assist feature only. Not a substitute for safe driving practices. Not available outside Australia or if service is disabled or terminated. Only operates if vehicle's SOS button is pressed. Dependent on 4G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, operational related components and other factors outside Lexus's control which can limit the ability or functionality of the system. Check your Owner's Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.
³ Driver assist feature only. Not a substitute for safe driving practices. Not available outside Australia or if service is disabled or terminated. Only activates if vehicle's DCM detects airbag deployment or an impact sensor notification. Dependent on 4G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, operational related components and other factors outside Lexus's control which can limit the ability or functionality of the system. Check your Owner's Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.
⁴ Not available outside Australia or if service is disabled or terminated. Dependent on sufficient battery power, 4G enabled DCM, GPS signal strength, mobile network coverage, operational related components & other factors outside Lexus's control which can limit the ability or functionality of the system. Guest required to obtain Police report. Vehicle location information, if available, only provided to Police. Vehicle recovery not guaranteed.

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UPGRADED POWERTRAINS DELIVER LEADING DRIVING DYNAMICS

The luxury of choice is offered to Lexus IS customers with three advanced powertrains that maximise the sports sedan's leading driving dynamics, including two with a retuned 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers more intuitive response.

Powertrains includes the V6 petrol IS 350 focused on providing the most immediate throttle response and acoustic engagement, the turbocharged petrol IS 300 that provides energetic performance and smooth refinement - plus the self-charging hybrid electric IS 300h that combines instantaneous torque with low fuel usage.

All three powertrains have been upgraded to meet Euro 6 emissions standards.

The flagship engine is the 3.5-litre normally aspirated V6 in the IS 350 delivering over 210kW at just 2000rpm, and a maximum peak of 232kW of power at 6600rpm.

Key technologies such as a combination of port- and direct-injection (D-4S) and intake Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVTi-W) have enabled Lexus to combine smooth and effortless response at lower engine speed, with sports sedan performance and acoustic engagement at high engine speed.

The astonishing flexibility of this 2GR-FKS engine is further reflected in the maximum torque output of 380Nm between 4800 and 4900rpm - and overall, an efficient specific torque output of 108Nm per litre of swept capacity.

Six elements - including the application of D-4S and VVTi-W - aid emissions reduction including an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head, optimised oil rings, new piston surface treatment to reduce friction, and a resin used for the cylinder head cover, surge tank and cooling system parts.

Combined with a 30kg kerb weight reduction (IS 350 F Sport), the result is a blend of superb performance, improved Euro 6 emissions capability and economy with combined-cycle fuel consumption of 9.5 litres per 100 kilometres¹.

For a balance of performance and drivability, smoothness and efficiency, the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 350Nm of torque throughout an impressively wide band from 1650 to 4400rpm.

The engine can also operate on both the fuel-saving Atkinson and conventional Otto cycles for maximum efficiency.

A highly-efficient low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger is adopted to confirm strong torque throughout the engine speed range, as well as a combination of port- and direct-injection (D-4S) and intake Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVTi-W).

Energetic response is also delivered by the 8AR-FTS engine, which produces 160kW of power at 4400rpm and a maximum 180kW of power at 5800rpm.

The result for the IS 300 is a mix of smooth performance, improved Euro 6 emissions capability and excellent economy with combined-cycle fuel consumption of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres¹.

Both the V6 petrol IS 350 and turbocharged petrol IS 300 also benefit from an 8-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission comprehensively retuned at the company's new 'mini Nürburgring' test facility in Shimoyama, Japan.

New adaptive control software selects the optimal gear by estimating the driver's intentions, with a new G AI-SHIFT algorithm adopted in SPORT S (and on F Sport variants SPORT S+) mode that uses a vehicle G sensor to select lower gears when entering corners - and then to maintain a particular gear through the corner.

On the 'country road course' in Shimoyama, the absence of control software saw a new IS test vehicle make more than 40 gearchanges throughout the winding course - this compares with 22 gearchanges with the new adaptive control enabled.

When braking for the tightest corner in the course, new adaptive control software automatically shifted the transmission to third gear before entry and maintained that gear throughout. This compares with fifth gear without adaptive control software.

During a long, sweeping corner, new adaptive control software maintained a lower sixth gear throughout. This compares with movement between sixth, seventh and eighth gear without adaptive control software.

The result is an automatic transmission intuitively designed to harness the leading driving dynamics of the new IS.

The focus for the IS 300 and IS 350 powertrains more than ever complement the unique characteristics of the IS 300h self-charging hybrid electric powertrain.

The IS 300h combines a 2.5-litre dual-injection petrol four-cylinder engine with 221Nm of torque from 4200 to 5400rpm, with a 650-volt permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor producing an instantaneous 300Nm of torque.

When starting off and during light load, the rear-mounted underfloor battery typically supplies energy to the centrally mounted electric motor to solely drive the rear wheels via an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT).

Drivers can also select 'EV Mode' via a button on the lower console to prioritise electric motor operation at low speeds, if cooling and battery charge levels are met.

During coasting, deceleration and braking, the self-charging hybrid electric system captures otherwise lost braking energy to recharge the rear-mounted underfloor battery, while during spirited acceleration the petrol engine and electric motor operate together for maximum performance.

The combined power output for this spirited combination is 164kW - at least 14kW higher than two nearest German luxury medium passenger car competitors fitted with their most economical, equivalent diesel powertrains.

The E-CVT also incorporates sequential shift-matic six-step control via paddle shifters on the steering wheel to leverage the dynamic benefits of the IS 300h, which boasts near-50:50 weight distribution (minimum kerb weight figures from 860kg front and from 840kg rear).

With low combined-cycle fuel consumption of 5.1 litres per 100 kilometres¹ the IS 300h also joins only the Lexus ES 300h as the most fuel efficient luxury medium sedan priced from less than $65,000 (Source: VFACTS, Medium >$60K).

The IS 300h also mirrors its combined-cycle fuel consumption figure for its urban fuel consumption, where air pollution reduction is significant.

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¹ Achieved in test conditions for comparison purposes only. Actual fuel consumption varies depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle condition, load and options/accessories fitted. Source: ADR81/02 combined (L/100km).

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STRONGER BODY, WIDER TRACKS AND LIGHTER SUSPENSION DELIVER LEADING DRIVING DYNAMICS

With a stronger body, wider tracks and lighter suspension, never before has there been such a focus on deliving leading driving dynamics with a new Lexus IS - which becomes the first model in the range to debut the new "Lexus Driving Signature".

The "Lexus Driving Signature" will become the standard for all future Lexus model development, defined by linear vehicle operation that is always faithful to the driver's intentions.

The philosophy behind the "Lexus Driving Signature" focuses on driver feedback and confidence, prioritising a seamless transition between braking, steering and acceleration through a corner across a variety of surfaces.

For the new rear-wheel-drive IS, development focused on increased body rigidity and wider tracks to ensure a tightness with the road, engaging steering response to maintain accuracy and feedback through a corner - and new, lighter suspension and driver assist technology to harmonise the new IS with a variety of road surfaces.

These Lexus dynamic values were achieved by utilising the country road test course at the company's new technical centre in Shimoyama, Japan, which opened in 2019.

The country road test course is based on many years of Lexus experience of driving on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, famous throughout the world for its gruelling driving conditions.

It was designed to take advantage of the local topography, featuring approximately a 75-metre change in elevation, a wide range of curves and a variety of road surfaces.

By repeatedly subjecting both vehicle and engineers to daily tests in this severe driving environment, Lexus was able to devise an ever-higher dimension of vehicle performance.

Increased body rigidity has been a priority for the new Lexus IS, which features the addition of bracing connecting the front pillar section and apron member, contributing to enhanced steering response and cornering ability.

For the front side members, the welding patch has been made narrower and additional spot weld points have been applied to increase the panel joint rigidity, providing excellent handling stability - including steering responsiveness and road surface feedback.

Additional welding spots and laser-screw welding techniques have also been adopted elsewhere, improving rear rail joint rigidity in particular and ensuring a tight and planted cornerning feel.

Hot stamp, high-tensile steel sheets and aluminium have been employed, enabling reduced panel thickness, contributing to structural simplification and reducing weight.

Reducing outer body panel weight also reduces inertia movement when cornering, improving agility through successive bends. It has also enabled new sound insulating materials to be employed behind the dashboard to realise excellent refinement.

While focusing on providing a stronger, quieter feel on the road, and delivering significant additional technology, the new IS also boasts a kerb weight reduction of up to 30kg (IS 350 F Sport).

Increased body rigidity complements substantial chassis canges in the new IS, including a 45mm-wider front and 50mm-wider rear track that gel with new, lighter suspension and driver assist technology to deliver the "Lexus Driving Signature".

Broader tracks centralise the weight of the vehicle and help deliver sharper turn-in to a corner, greater vehicle neutrality and stability throughout the bend while encouraging the driver to employ earlier acceleration on exit to a corner.

Along with wider tracks, Lexus has made larger diameter and wider tyres standard on IS Luxury and IS F Sport variants to increase grip and traction, while employing a hub-bolt fastener technique for the first time to further increase steering feedback.

IS Luxury variants upgrade from 225mm-wide 17-inch to a 235mm-wide 18-inch wheel and tyre package, while IS Luxury with Enhancement Pack 2 gains a 235mm-wide 19-inch wheel and tyre set-up.

IS F Sport also moves from a staggered 225mm front/235mm rear 18-inch to a 235mm front and substantial 265mm rear 19-inch wheel and tyre combination, in pursuit of additional power-down ability for the sportiest rear-wheel-drive variants.

For all wheels of the new IS, the previous stud bolt/hub nut fastening method has been replaced by new hub bolt construction that realises higher axle rigidity and reduced unsprung mass.

A hub bolt uses a spherical seat for the wheel contact face to generate stable axial force so that the hub bearing, and the wheel are securely fastened, contributing to enhanced steering feel with clear feedback and excellent ride comfort.

A further reduction in unsprung mass is also achieved for the advanced double-wishbone front suspension, which now features lighter and stronger components.

This includes a new high-stress material for the coil springs (20% weight reduction) and an upper control arm material change from steel to aluminium (18% weight reduction).

The multi-link rear suspension also includes a coil spring material change (20% weight reduction), second control arm material change from steel to aluminium (20% weight reduction) and a new rear stabiliser bar (17% weight reduction).

Along with wider tracks, lighter suspension joins new Active Cornering Assist as standard on all models, to help deliver the delicate handling balance demanded by medium sports sedan drivers and the rear-wheel-drive format.

Active Cornering Assist (ACA) is designed to maintain the most ideal vehicle posture when cornering by imperceptibly braking individual wheels to maintain the driver's intended line. The system can use the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to subtly generate a yaw moment during cornering by creating a difference in drive force between left and right tyres, to maintain a clean and comfortable cornering line.

The combination achieves a new level of dynamic neutrality and linearity with the new IS, while at the same time allowing the new spring and damper set-up to flow, feel controlled and cosset occupants at all times across a variety of road surfaces.

A reshaped and re-engineered bound stopper on all new IS variants is designed to reduce shock. The stopper's clearance has been widened and initial rigidity has been reduced by adopting a new material and optimising its shape, ensuring that rigidity fluctuations are suppressed following initial contact with the bound stopper.

For the single-setting suspension of IS Luxury variants, a new swing-valve shock absorber design is employed.

Swing-valve shock absorbers generate damping force for even minimal movement of the vehicle body, with a highly controlled stroke speed of 2 millimetres per second to maintain ideal posture across small road surface imperfections and reduce shock.

In the ultra-low velocity area (stroke speed 2 millimetres per second),the oil travels back and forth through the swing valve, which is a non-overlap-type valve, by the valve bending backwards and forwards, realising optimum damping force even at minimal movement.

In the low-to-medium and high-velocity area (when stroke speed is 2 millimetres per second or more), the damping force (or main valve rigidity) has been optimised in accordance with the swing valve damping force. This helps deliver a flat cornering stance and excellent settling motion across larger road imperfections - enhancing the feeling of stability and overall driver confidence.

The standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) on IS F Sport variants boasts anti-dive and anti-squat control, as well as roll-attitude control.

It even includes unsprung mass vibration damping control - where a higher damping force is maintained when unsprung resonance is detected based on speed sensor signal output, thus helping enhance road holding with no loss of ride comfort.

It includes a driver-selectable NORMAL mode (also employed in ECO and SPORT S mode) that balances trademark Lexus ride comfort with tight level of body control befitting a sports sedan.

The driver can also select SPORT S+ damping mode that keeps the shock absorbers in a narrower band towards the higher end of damping force to maintain flat cornering stance and enhance agility during spirited driving.

The driver can also select CUSTOM mode to independently select ECO, NORMAL or SPORT mode for the powertrain, with NORMAL or SPORT S+ damping mode.

F Sport variants also include exclusive tuning of the suspension springs and electric power steering for an even sportier driving experience.

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2021 LEXUS IS SPECIFICATIONS

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