Next Lexus IS (updated with test mule,page4)......
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 8,349
Likes: 0
From: QC/FRANCE
3IS in 2011?
IS-F Wagon would be nice thats for sure. So it can go up against the Cadillac CTS V Wagon, Audi RS4 Avant and MB C63 Estate. Seeing BMW doesn't have an M3 Touring version.
One thing I am wondering how many sales the IS Wagon IS-F Wagon will take away from the RX.
IS-F Wagon could start at like C$70K. It be like a C$2K premium over the sedan.
One thing I hope the 3IS Coupe will look more "nice" and proportional. Also have it as a true hardtop and not a convertible.
IS-F Wagon would be nice thats for sure. So it can go up against the Cadillac CTS V Wagon, Audi RS4 Avant and MB C63 Estate. Seeing BMW doesn't have an M3 Touring version.
One thing I am wondering how many sales the IS Wagon IS-F Wagon will take away from the RX.
IS-F Wagon could start at like C$70K. It be like a C$2K premium over the sedan.
One thing I hope the 3IS Coupe will look more "nice" and proportional. Also have it as a true hardtop and not a convertible.
Last edited by JessePS; Mar 13, 2010 at 07:50 AM.
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 6,471
Likes: 0
From: SF
The way Lexus needs to step up their game in this particular 3 Series dominated segment is to first offer a solid performing sedan and coupe. Then they should explore wagon and convertible variants based off the demand for the sedan and coupe. It's a really easy formula...but Lexus keeps trying to veer off into left field hoping everyone else will follow.
Driver
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 145
Likes: 0
From: CA
Lead Lap
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 4,428
Likes: 10
From: NC
Test Mule
Much like the larger GS sedan that we recently spied, Lexus is apparently working on a substantial overhaul for its smaller rear-drive IS, as well.
Though still in early test mule stages, the next IS is expected to ride on a shorter version of the GS platform, which could give it a slightly wider stance than the car currently on the road. Expect the usual sedan and convertible variants to be on hand, as well as a forthcoming IS coupe set to battle the BMW 3 Series and upcoming Mercedes-Benz C-class 2-door.
The reworked IS sedan will likely bow sometime in 2012 and the coupe is pegged to arrive shortly thereafter with the usual V6 powertrains as well as an eventual high-performance F variant in at least 1 bodystyle. The only question we have is, will a force-fed 4 powerplant also join the party?
Last edited by GS69; Oct 6, 2010 at 11:45 AM.
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Right now my biggest worry is that they screw up the dynamics like they seem to have done with the CT. My expectations for Lexus design are already pretty low... but if they can make the LFA drive good no reason why they can't make the next IS drive good.
