Originally Posted by Lexus Europe

LEXUS AT GENEVA MOTOR SHOW 2013: EUROPEAN PREMIERE OF THE ALL-NEW LEXUS IS

The all-new Lexus IS model range makes its European debut at the 2013 Geneva motor show. Due to be launched by mid-2013, the range includes the IS 300h – the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive – and the rear-wheel drive IS 250, as well as a further evolution of the F SPORT package, available for both models.

Brussels, Belgium - EUROPEAN PREMIERE OF THE ALL-NEW LEXUS IS

The all-new Lexus IS model range makes its European debut at the 2013 Geneva motor show. Due to be launched by mid-2013, the range includes the IS 300h – the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive – and the rear-wheel drive IS 250, as well as a further evolution of the F SPORT package, available for both models.

Driving performance is considered the single most important element of sport sedan ownership by D-premium segment customers. In conjunction with a dramatic new design featuring the Lexus spindle grille, the new IS has been engineered to provide outstanding dynamic capabilities and driving experience.

‘We adopted an entirely different approach to the development of the new IS’ said Junichi Furuyama, IS Chief Engineer. ‘Rather than developing each individual aspect in the hope that they will combine to offer an engaging driving experience, we first established the pleasurable driving experience owners desire as our major premise, and then we developed the individual performance elements to support it.’

‘Every aspect of the new IS has been engineered with a renewed focus on the sporting performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback.’

The new IS also showcases an all-new interior that combines all the refinement and quality expected of any Lexus, with a more sporting, focused driver’s environment, a significant improvement in rear seat space for best-in-class roominess, and a larger, more convenient luggage compartment.

A RESOLUTE LOOK

The dramatic design, sleek surfacing and tight, sporting proportions of the all-new IS perfectly reflect the significant advances made to the dynamic capabilities and driving performance of the Lexus premium compact sedan.

At 4,665 mm overall, the new IS is 80 mm longer and 10 mm wider than its predecessor. The front overhang has increased by just 10 mm, and the wheelbase has been extended by 70 mm to 2,800 mm.

Following the new generation GS, ES and LS models, the all-new IS features the sophisticated dynamism of the Lexus spindle grille frontal design, awarding the compact sedan a combination of aggressive elegance, a more powerful road presence and a stronger brand identity.

Beneath a new pop-up hood design which allows for the lowest possible vehicle front profile whilst optimising pedestrian impact protection, the grille is flanked by headlamp clusters clearly positioned on a higher plane than the grille itself.

The new, powerfully articulated headlamp is underscored by Lexus trademark L-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) located independently below the cluster, giving the new IS a unique, highly distinctive visual signature.

In profile, the strong horizontal beltline creates the impression of larger rear tyres and a lowered centre of gravity. The mass of the cabin itself appears to be concentrated rearwards, visually applying weight to the rear tyres to enhance the perception of traction. A rising crease line flowing from the lower body, through the rear wheel arch and into the rear lamp clusters adds further dynamism to the sweeping elegance of the sedan’s sporting profile.

The clean, elegant, coupe-like lines of the new IS are further enhanced by a rear wheel arch hemming treatment which gives the tyre greater prominence by allowing it to be placed 5 mm further outboard and closer to the wheel arch, and a laser-brazed roof structure which joins the roof and side members without the need for an unsightly roof drip moulding.

LIFE ON-BOARD

INTERIOR DESIGN
The clean, horizontal theme of the new IS interior design is bisected by the strong upward sweep of the centre console, creating a snug, focused, ergonomically ideal environment from within which the driver can fully exploit the new Lexus compact sedan’s superb driving dynamics.

The newly designed, quilted driver’s seat offers greater comfort and better lateral support. The seat hip point has been lowered by 20 mm. The new, LFA-inspired, 3-spoke, 370 mm diameter steering wheel features a new paddle shift switch shape for easier, more accurate operation, and improved ergonomics to the wheel-mounted switchgear.

The angle of the wheel has been lowered 3 degrees, and steering reach adjustment has been increased by 23 mm, creating a more sporting driving position.

With 50 mm of its 70 mm longer wheelbase dedicated to increased rear seat space and 20 mm dedicated to increased luggage capacity, the new, 10 mm wider IS offers rear seat occupants significantly increased levels of comfort. The combination of extended wheelbase and a thinner front seat design generates an 85 mm increase in knee room for the new, 60:40 split/folding seats. And a 20 mm increase in the gap between the B pillar and the front corner of the seat improves accessibility.

Throughout the interior, high quality materials and finishes convey contemporary, premium look and feel, with a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail for which Lexus is globally renowned. Soft touch finishes abound, including knee pads either side of the centre console for increased driver and front passenger comfort.

The new IS follows the GS and LS in adopting a Drive Mode Select system, with meter illumination and multi-information display design changing from blue to red in sports driving modes, along with the switching of the hybrid system indicator to a tachometer in the IS 300h.

ON-BOARD TECHNOLOGY

Dual-zone Air Conditioning with Electrostatic Switches
The new IS features a dual-zone air conditioning system with touch-sensitive, electrostatic switches to control the air conditioning temperature. Sliding a finger up or down the bar shaped switch allows for temperature adjustment in 0.5 degree increments. Temperature can also be adjusted by simply pressing the top or bottom half of the switch or the arrow markings.

Advanced Multimedia Systems
Two types of multimedia system are available for use in conjunction with the high-resolution 7” full colour display, Lexus Display Audio (LDA) and Electro Multi Vision Navigation (EMVN).

The EMVN system is operated via a second generation Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) multi-function control device, which has been enhanced for increased user-friendliness and ease of operation.

iPod functionality and interface quality has been enhanced; via USB port connectivity, the iPod menu can now be driven from the vehicle’s steering wheel control switches, and album cover art displayed on the 7” multimedia screen.

Premium Sound System
The new Lexus IS is fitted with a sound system representing the next generation of realism and clarity in Lexus sound. It features a fully digital, Class-D, 6 or 8 channel amplifier capable of creating virtually distortion-free sound with minimal voltage losses. The natural sound dynamics and rich harmonies generated by the high definition amplification are faithfully reproduced by an enhanced, 6 or 8-speaker layout which features a new, 55 mm wide-range tweeter.

Mark Levinson® Premium Surround System
Available with the new IS’s EMVN system, the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround System creates sound based on the concepts of Effortless Dynamics and Effortless Transient Response, which combine natural dynamics with high response and tracking performance to offer sound quality equivalent to that of a live, concert hall performance.

Using the same technologies as those found in top-end home audio systems, it features a 12 channel fully digital Class-D amplifier generating a total output of 835 Watts through 15 GreenEdgeTM high-efficiency loudspeakers. A new Auto Volume system automatically adjusts system volume for each song being played to ensure consistent volume levels and full audibility for even the quietest passages of music.

Developing twice the volume for the same power consumption, GreenEdgeTM power-saving technology has been incorporated into each of the 15 speakers. GreenEdgeTM technology covers a wider frequency band than conventional systems, giving an enhanced dynamic range.

POWERTRAINS

The new IS will be available in two versions - the 2.5 litre V6 petrol engined IS 250 and the IS 300h: the first IS model to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive.

IS 300h
Reinforcing the company’s commitment to the future of full hybrid drive technology, the new
IS 300h is equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system, which offers significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and particulate (PM) emissions, with no loss of performance.

The full hybrid drive system combines a powerful 105 kW/143 DIN hp electric motor with a newly developed, 2.5 litre, 133 kW/181 DIN hp, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine featuring a next generation D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i and a high-efficiency Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system.

With the rear wheels driven through the hybrid system’s Electric Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT), total system power is 164 kW/223 DIN hp. The new IS 300h combines a
0-100 km/h acceleration time of 8.3 seconds and a maximum speed of 200 km/h.

Conversely, the new Lexus full hybrid returns an average fuel consumption of 4.3 l/100 km, and class-leading CO2 emissions from 99 g/km.

The new IS 300h is also the first Lexus full hybrid to install the battery beneath the luggage deck board, offering compartment capacity on a par with that of petrol engine models.

Sequential Shiftmatic
The IS 300h’s transmission can also act as a sequential shiftmatic system operated via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The system has been tuned to more closely match engine speed increases in line with vehicle acceleration. Under deceleration, engine braking force is delivered in six steps, with a shift feel similar to that of a manual transmission. In combination, these E-CVT enhancements offer drivers a more engaging driving experience.

Active Sound Control (ASC)
The driving experience is further enhanced through the adoption of Active Sound Control (ASC); a new technology that compliments the engine sound with audio sound through a dedicated loudspeaker, delivering the engine sounds of acceleration and deceleration even when the engine is turned off and the full hybrid IS 300h is operating under electric motor power alone.

IS 250
The new IS 250 will be available in Europe with the rear-wheel drive version of the 2.5 litre V6 petrol engine. It develops 152 kW/207 DIN hp at 6,400 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm, accelerating the IS 250 from 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and giving a maximum speed of 225 km/h.

Carried over from the current IS 250, the chain-driven double overhead camshaft, 24 valve,
2,499 cc V6 petrol engine is of a particularly compact and lightweight design. Weight reduction measures include the use of an aluminium die-cast cylinder block and intake manifold, and a resin-made intake chamber. The overall engine assembly is made even lighter and more compact through the installation of the water and oil pumps within the chain cover.

The V6 features D-4 direct injection and Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) to both intake and exhaust camshafts, enhancing engine performance.

6-Speed Super Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT)
The IS 250’s ‘6 Super ECT’ close-ratio 6-speed automatic transmission features a sequential manual shifting mode. It incorporates numerous technologies including faster shift speeds, earlier torque converter lock-up and downshift throttle blips to support the range of driving modes available through the Drive Mode Select system.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

The target of segment-leading driving enjoyment has been at the heart of the new IS development programme, and -sacrificing none of the quietness and comfort inherent in any Lexus- every aspect of the new compact sedan’s driving dynamics has been painstakingly engineered to that end.

The new bodyshell is lighter, yet more rigid than its predecessor. The front suspension system has been revised, and an all new rear suspension system adopted, combining outstanding grip performance with excellent response to steering inputs.

A new steering system offers a lighter, smoother, more accurate steering feel with enhanced response to inputs and greater feedback to the driver.

A new Drive Mode Select system features up to five switchable driving modes- EV (IS 300h only), ECO, NORMAL, SPORT/SPORT S and SPORT S+, to optimise the driver’s preferred combination of economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics.

F SPORT

IS F SPORT models may be instantly recognised by an exclusive grille and front bumper design. The ‘waistline’ of the grille is higher than on standard models, increasing the area of the lower grille to make it capable of drawing in a larger volume of cooling air appropriate to a sporting performance.

The grille itself has a unique, L-shaped mesh finish and the lower section is trimmed with a more prominent chrome-plated trim than that of the standard IS.

The bottom corners of the front bumpers feature LED foglamps and F SPORT-exclusive aerodynamic detailing to provide both downforce and enhanced brake cooling. Unique 18” wheels feature a Y-spoke design and a dark premium metallic coated finish which identifies them with the LFA bloodline.

F SPORT models are available in a choice of eight exterior colours of which two, Ultrasonic Blue and White Nova, are exclusive. White Nova has been developed exclusively to reflect the pure, sporting nature of the marque, as represented by the LFA supercar.

On board, F SPORT models inherit the Innovate driver’s meter with moving centre ring from the LFA. An exclusive, highly supportive sports seat design uses an ‘integrated foaming’ construction method, ensuring that there are no gaps between seat upholstery and foam padding to combine excellent comfort with outstanding lateral holding performance.

Bespoke interior trim detailing includes an F SPORT steering wheel and shift **** finished in perforated leather, metal film 3-D-effect ornamentation, black seat stitching, and aluminium pedals and scuff plates. A choice of two interior colour schemes includes a new Dark Rose finish which is exclusive to F SPORT.

Both the front and rear suspension systems and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) are exclusively tuned for the F SPORT package, enhancing IS handling performance without detriment to ride quality.

An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system is an option exclusive to the IS 300h F SPORT. The system allows the driver to fine tune the IS F SPORT’s ride characteristics with a choice of two damper settings; ‘Normal’ mode, for everyday driving comfort, and Sport S+ mode, for improved body control and precise responses to steering input whilst cornering.

ADVANCED SAFETY

Every Lexus is designed to offer the very highest levels of active, passive and preventive safety. Incorporating Lexus’ unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, the new IS model range builds on the already superior safety performance of the current generation model with the addition of several, advanced new active safety features.

They include an Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp system, a Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system, a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and a Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system.

The new IS is also equipped with a sophisticated Pre-Crash System (PCS) which offers drivers collision avoidance assistance that is effective in helping mitigate even high-speed collisions.

Within a highly rigid body structure of exceptional car-to-car impact compatibility, no less than 8 airbags are fitted as standard, and a newly developed pop-up hood design allows for the lowest possible vehicle front profile whilst optimising pedestrian impact protection.

Originally Posted by Lexus UK

NEW LEXUS IS 300H DELIVERS CLASS-LEADING EFFICIENCY

KEY POINTS

• CO2 emissions for new full hybrid IS 300h start at 99g/km for SE model, below the threshold for annual UK Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax)
• IS 300h Luxury grade rated at 103g/km, IS 300h F Sport and Premier grades at 109g/km, qualifying for zero first-year VED charge
• New IS range available to order now, deliveries from mid-July
• The new Lexus IS 300h, making its European debut today at the Geneva motor show, is set to deliver unprecedented efficiency when it reaches Britain’s roads this summer, its 2.5-litre full hybrid powertrain posting CO2 emissions from 99g/km.

The rear-wheel drive sports saloon benefits from the years of experience Lexus has gained in developing its Lexus Hybrid Drive system to achieve even greater environmental performance with no compromise in power or driving quality. As well as significantly lower carbon emissions, Lexus Hybrid Drive also reduces NOx and particulate to near zero.

The key sub-100g/km CO2 figure is achieved by the IS 300h SE model, fitted with 16-inch wheels, which means no annual Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) charge. Cleaner, cost-friendly performance is delivered by the other hybrid versions in the UK line-up as well, both delivering emissions below 110g/km for a Band B VED rating, thus qualifying for a zero charge in the first year of ownership.

The low emissions are not at the expense of performance. The IS 300h’s powertrain achieves a total system output of 220bhp/164kW and gives the new Lexus a dynamic drive with quick and smooth acceleration. The homologated emissions figures for the European model confirm it will produce 99g/km in combined cycle driving, with 65.7mpg fuel consumption. In the UK these figures will apply to the IS 300h SE model, fitted with 16-inch wheels.

The system features a 141bhp/105kW electric motor and a newly developed 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine that produces a maximum 178bhp/133kW. The engine benefits from a new D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system.

The rear wheels are driven through the hybrid powertrain’s E-CVT transmission. Total system output is 220bhp/164kW, enabling nought to 62mph acceleration in 8.3 seconds and a 125mph top speed.

The driver can modify the car’s performance by selecting from three different drive modes: EV all-electric running, with the petrol engine switched off; Eco, for optimum fuel efficiency; Normal, and Sport, for sharper throttle response and a sportier steering setting.

The new IS range includes an F Sport model, which comes with sports-tuned suspension and electric power steering, as well as dedicated exterior and interior design features that distinguish it from the other models in the range.

Further details about the new IS 300h and IS 250 can be found here. The new IS range is available to order now for UK customers, with deliveries from mid-July.

Originally Posted by Lexus UK

EUROPEAN PREMIERE OF THE ALL-NEW LEXUS IS

KEY POINTS

• All new Lexus IS sports saloon range revealed at Geneva motor show
• IS 300h – the first IS with Lexus Hybrid Drive, with class-leading CO2 emissions from 99g/km and 65.7mpg combined cycle fuel consumption
• IS 250 powered by 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine,
• Both versions available with sports-focused F Sport package
• Available to order in the UK now, with deliveries from mid-July
• On-the-road prices from £26,495
• The all-new Lexus IS range makes its European debut at the 2013 Geneva motor show prior to going on sale this summer. The range includes the IS 300h, the first IS model with Lexus Hybrid Drive, and the petrol-powered IS 250. The line-up will also include a further evolution of Lexus’s F Sport package, available for both models.

In the UK both versions are available to order now, with customer deliveries from mid-July.

Acknowledging that driving performance is the prime consideration for sports saloon customers, Lexus has engineered the new IS to deliver outstanding dynamic performance and driver engagement. It also adopts more powerful, distinctive styling inside and out, led by a dramatic interpretation of Lexus’s hallmark spindle-shaped front grille arrangement.

Junichi Furuyama, IS Chief Engineer, explained: “We adopted an entirely different approach to the development of the new IS. Rather than develop each individual aspect in the hope they will combine to offer an engaging driving experience, we first established the kind of driving experience owners desire. With this as our initial premise, we then developed the individual performance elements to support it.

“Every aspect of the new IS has been engineered with a focus on sporting performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback.”

The new IS showcases an all-new interior that combines authentic Lexus quality and refinement with a more sporting and focused environment for the driver. There is also a significant improvement in space for rear seat passengers and a larger, more user-friendly boot.

DESIGN

Exterior

The new IS’s sleek surfacing and tight, sporting proportions capture the spirit of the advances Lexus has made in the car’s dynamic capabilities and driving performance.

Measuring 4,660mm overall, the new IS is 75mm longer and 10mm wider than its predecessor. The front overhang has been increased by just 5mm, so 70mm have been added to the wheelbase, taking it to 2,800mm.

The IS followed the latest generation GS and LS is adopting the Lexus spindle front grille arrangement, giving the model a more powerful road presence and stronger brand identity.

True to Lexus design tradition, the headlamp units are set on a higher plane than the grille, while the pop-up bonnet design allows for a high degree of pedestrian impact protection, while permitting the lowest possible frontal profile.

There is also a new, powerfully articulated headlamp cluster design, with Lexus’s signature L-shaped daytime running lights presented independently below.

In profile, the new IS presents a strong, horizontal belt line that gives the impression of larger rear tyres and a lowered centre of gravity. The mass of the cabin appears to be concentrated towards the rear of the car, adding a sense of weight over the rear wheels. A rising crease line flows up from the lower body, through the rear wheel arch and into the rear lamp clusters, adding extra dynamism to the design.

The coupe-like lines are amplified by a hemming treatment to the rear wheel arches which allows the tyres to be set 5mm further outboard and closer to the wheel arches. The sleek appearance is further enhanced by a laser-brazed structure which joints the roof and side members without the need for any unsightly roof drip moulding.

Interior

The cabin design is clean and elegant, with an ergonomically ideal environment for the driver.

The new-design driver’s seat is more comfortable, with a quilted finish to the covering, and provides better lateral support. The seat hip point has been lowered by 20mm and there is a new, three-spoke, 370mm diameter steering wheel – inspired by the LFA – fitted with paddle shifts. The paddles have been redesigned for easier, more accurate operation, and the wheel-mounted switchgear benefit from revised ergonomic design.

The angle of the steering wheel has been lowered by three degrees and its reach adjustment has been increased by 23mm, to give a more sporting driving position. Thanks to the rest position of the windscreen wipers being brought down by 15mm, the driver enjoys the same angle of vision as in the current IS model.

The 70mm increase in the wheelbase has allowed 50mm to be allocated to rear seat space and 20mm to increased boot capacity. The 10mm increase in vehicle width helps increase comfort for rear seat passengers, who also benefit from an 85mm increase in knee room thanks to a thinner front seatback design. Access to the rear is easier, too, with a 20mm increase in the gap between the centre pillar and the front corner of the seat.

The new rear seats also have a 60:40 split-folding function.

High quality materials and finishes are used throughout the interior to convey a contemporary, premium look, supported by Lexus’s renowned craftsmanship and attention to detail. Many soft-touch areas have been created, including knee pads either side of the centre console.

Following the example of the new GS and LS, the IS adopts a Drive Mode Select system, with illumination of the meters and multi-information display changing from blue to red when sport driving modes are selected. On the full hybrid IS 300h, this also prompts the hybrid system indicator to switch to a tachometer.

TECHNOLOGY

Dual-zone air conditioning with electrostatic switches

The new IS has a dual-zone air conditioning system with touch-sensitive electrostatic switches to control temperature. Sliding a finger up or down the bar shaped switch adjusts the temperature in half-degree steps; alternatively you can simply press the up and down arrow markings at the top and bottom of the switch.

Advanced multi-media systems

Two multimedia systems are available, used in conjunction with the high-resolution, seven-inch colour display: Lexus Display Audio and Electro Multi Vision Navigation.

The Lexus Display Audio is controlled using an eight-direction joystick and now includes a smartphone linking function so smartphone navigation applications can be used, with information presented on the display screen.

The Electro Multi Vision Navigation is operated using a second generation version of Lexus’s Remote Touch Interface. This controller works like a computer mouse and has been revised to be even more user-friendly.

Premium sound system

The new IS comes as standard with a sound system that includes a fully digital, Class D, six or eight-channel amplifier that can create virtually distortion-free sound with minimal voltage losses. The natural sound dynamics and rich harmonies generated by its high definition amplification are faithfully reproduced in an improved six or eight-speaker layout, which includes a new 55mm wide-range tweeter.

Mark Levinson Premium Surround System

The Mark Levinson Premium Surround System, available with the new IS’s Electro Multi Vision Navigation, creates sound based on the concepts of Effortless Dynamics and Effortless Transient Response. These combine natural dynamics with high response and tracking performance to give sound quality equivalent to a live concert hall performance.

Using the same technologies found in top-end home audio systems, it features a 12-channel, fully digital Class-D amplifier that generates 125W per channel through 12 GreenEdge high-efficiency speakers plus three coaxial Unity speakers. A new auto volume system automatically adjusts the volume for each track played to ensure consistent volume levels and full audibility of even the quietest passages of music.

The power-saving GreenEdge technology in each of the speakers allows twice the volume for the same power consumption. It covers a wider frequency band than conventional systems, giving a better dynamic range. The Mark Levinson system includes three new 90mm GreenEdge Unity speakers mounted in the front of the cabin, with a coaxial structure which integrates mid and high-range units within the same structure.

To the rear there are two further 90mm GreenEdge units which feature a new Wide Dispersion technology, with built-in acoustic lenses to disperse sound more evenly through the cabin. Together these five speakers give consistent timbre for front and rear seat occupants, resulting in a new level of surround sound definition, atmosphere and aural quality.

A new 200mm GreenEdge subwoofer uses the latest inverted motor structure technology, in which the magnet driving the speaker cone is mounted inversely, significantly reducing the depth of the unit with no loss in power or acoustic performance.

POWERTRAINS

Two versions of the new IS will be available: the IS 250, with a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine, and the full hybrid IS 300h, the first IS to use the Lexus Hybrid Drive system, incorporating a four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine.

IS 300h

The introduction of the new IS 300h reinforces Lexus’s commitment to the future of full hybrid technology. It uses a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive that delivers significant improvements in fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and particulate emissions, with no loss of performance.

The system features a 141bhp/105kW electric motor and a newly developed 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine that produces a maximum 178bhp/133kW. The engine benefits from a new D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system.

The rear wheels are driven through the hybrid powertrain’s E-CVT transmission. Total system output is 220bhp/164kW, enabling nought to 62mph acceleration in 8.3 seconds and a 125mph top speed.

Thanks to Lexus Hybrid Drive’s improved efficiency, average fuel consumption is 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions are from a class-leading 99g/km (figures apply to the IS 300h SE model with 16-inch wheels).

The new IS 300h is the first Lexus hybrid in which the hybrid battery is located beneath the luggage deck board, which means boot space is close to that of its petrol-powered counterparts.

Sequential Shiftmatic

The IS 300h’s seamless E-CVT transmission uses shift-by-wire technology, operated using an electronic shift lever.

Selecting Sport or Sport S drive mode allows the transmission to work as a sequential shiftmatic system, operated using the paddle shifts on the steering wheel. The system has been tuned to closely match increases in engine speed with vehicle acceleration. Under deceleration, engine braking force is delivered in six steps, with a shift feel similar to that of a manual transmission. Together these enhancements to the E-CVT help create a more engaging driving experience.

Active Sound Control

The driving experience gains an extra dimension thanks to Active Sound Control, a new technology that compliments engine sound with an audio feed through a dedicated speaker that delivers the sound of acceleration and deceleration, even when the hybrid system is running purely on electric power, with the engine switched off.

IS 250

The new, rear-wheel drive IS 250 is powered by a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine, with a maximum 204bhp/152kW at 6,400rpm and 250Nm of torque at 4,800rpm, enabling nought to 62mph acceleration in 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 140mph.

The engine, which featured in the previous IS 250, is a chain-driven DOHC 32-valve unit with a particularly compact and lightweight design. Its weight-saving features include a die-cast aluminium cylinder block and intake manifold, a resin intake chamber and installation of both the water and oil pumps within the chain cover. Performance is enhanced by the V6’s D-4 direct injection and Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing.

Six-speed Super Electronically Controlled Transmission

The IS 250’s 6 Super ECT close-ratio six-speed automatic transmission has a sequential manual shift mode. It benefits from numerous technologies that enable faster shift speeds, earlier torque converter lock-up and downshift throttle blips, allied to the different driving modes available in the IS’s Drive Mode Select system.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

The development of the new IS has targeted best-in-class driving enjoyment, but not the cost of the quietness and comfort that are an essential part of any Lexus.

The new bodyshell is lighter, yet more rigid. The front suspension has been revised and an all-new rear suspension design has been introduced, to give excellent grip and response to steering inputs.

A new steering system gives lighter, smoother and more accurate feel, with an enhanced response and feedback.

The new Drive Mode Select system features (on UK versions) four switchable driving modes: EV (IS 300h only), Eco, Normal, and Sport/Sport S, which deliver the driver’s preferred balance of economy, comfort, performance and handling.

F Sport

The IS F Sport models not only display more sporting design features inside and out, they also benefit from genuine dynamic enhancements, notably specially tuned front and rear suspension systems.

The F Sport versions can be instantly recognised thanks to their special grille and front bumper design: there are more prominent chrome trim elements and a different, L-shaped mesh pattern is used for the grille. The “waistline” of the spindle-shaped grille is set higher than on the standard models, creating a larger lower grille that can draw in the greater volume of cooling air needed for sportier driving.

The front bumper features LED fog lamps at each corner and specific aerodynamic detailing to provide both downforce and extra brake cooling. The F Sport 18-inch alloy wheels have a distinctive Y-spoke design and a dark metallic finish, giving them a link to the LFA’s bloodline.

Inside, the F Sport inherits the innovative driver’s meter design from the LFA, with its moving central ring. Special trim details include an F Sport steering wheel and shift **** finished in perforated leather, a metallic 3D-effect detailing, black seat stitching and aluminium pedals and scuff plates. Two interior colour schemes will be available, including a new Dark Rose exclusive to F Sport.

The IS F Sport also has an exclusive seat design that provides extra support. The seats are made using an integrated foaming method that ensures there are no gaps between the upholstery and the filling, giving both excellent comfort and great lateral holding.

The front and rear suspension and the electric power steering are tuned to enhance the F Sport models’ handling, without compromising ride quality.

ADVANCED SAFETY

The new IS builds on the superior safety performance of its predecessor with high levels of active, passive and preventive safety, including a number of new active safety features.

According to market, the new IS will offer feature a number of advanced, new active safety features, including automatic headlamp high beam operation, Lane Departure Alert, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The new IS benefits from a highly rigid body structure for excellent car-to-car impact performance. In the cabin there are 10 airbags as standard, and, in the pursuit of greater protection for pedestrians, the bonnet has a new pop-up design to help prevent serious injury in a collision.