2011 Lexus IS (Pics and Specs) F-sport package opt,AWD IS 350 added, IS F revised
07-16-10, 09:28 PM
#1
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2011 Lexus IS (Pics and Specs) F-sport package opt,AWD IS 350 added, IS F revised
Credit our own IS forum
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...acelift-8.html
F sport package
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...acelift-8.html
F sport package
Originally Posted by N
Lexus Revises and Expands IS Sport Sedan Line for 2011

• All-New IS 350 All-Wheel Drive Model
• New F Sport Package for IS 250/350 Rear-Wheel Drive Model
• Revised Front Styling and Interior Trim
Lexus is expanding choices in its popular IS sport sedan line for 2011, adding a 306-horsepower IS 350 all-wheel drive (AWD) model and offering a new F Sport Package for the IS 250/350 rear-wheel drive (RWD). Revised front and rear styling details sharpen all IS models for 2011. In addition, the IS sedans feature minor interior trim changes.
A new front grille and bumper distinguish the IS sport sedans for 2011, while at the rear, the models show a new taillamp cover and revised tailpipe design. New HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps are standard on the IS 350 and available for the IS 250. Keeping with Lexus’ attention to detail, the 2011 IS models feature new-design standard 17-inch and optional 18-inch wheels, along with revised exterior color choices.
The IS 350 AWD model joins the IS 250 AWD, which has accounted for 30 percent (nationally) of IS 250 sales since the model’s introduction. Now, IS customers can have the traction and grip of all-wheel drive with the IS 350’s higher performance capability.
The F Sport Package available for the 2011 IS 250/350 RWD takes inspiration from the IS F ultra-performance sedan, combining special suspension and steering tuning and 18-inch wheels with distinctive design touches. Giving the IS 250/350 F Sport Package model a sporty demeanor are a front lip spoiler and rear deck spoiler, plus the 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark super-chrome finish. There is also a matching dark-chrome front grille insert, and a new Ultrasonic Blue exterior color is available in conjunction with the F Sport Package.
Inside, special F Sport heated front seats feature a special microfiber insert and leather side bolsters to provide more grip for the driver and passenger during cornering. The package also adds F Sport badging to the steering wheel, shift **** and doorsill scuff plates.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The IS 250’s 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350’s 3.5-liter V6 offers a more potent 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350 RWD model can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 also differs in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, optimizing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds.
An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS 350 models and the IS 250 AWD. The IS 250 RWD comes standard with a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS models provide a sporty driving experience while also offering a supple, quiet ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension use high-strength steel and aluminum components to reduce unsprung weight. Sophisticated monotube shock-absorbers integrate multi-leaf linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort.
The all-wheel-drive system available for the IS 250 and IS 350 provides extra traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system’s electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
Aiding the IS models’ traction and stability is Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). More advanced than other traction and stability systems, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and help correct the situation with a combination of braking and throttle control. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). The driver can disengage VSC via the “TRAC off” switch, which can be useful in certain situations.
The IS 350’s brake system is equipped with larger ventilated front and rear rotors and aluminum four-piston front calipers. Standard all-season performance tires are 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 and IS 350 AWD). Eighteen-inch wheels are available.
Safety/Security Features
A reinforced passenger compartment helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats. In addition to the advanced dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the IS includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide overall occupant protection.
The IS 250 offers optional High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with LED daytime running lamps. IS 350 models feature standard HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps and headlamp washers. The rear back-up camera, included with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse gear. The exterior mirrors integrate turn signals.
The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car’s front and rear bumpers, helping to alert the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any IS model is also equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system’s seven-inch touch screen display.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
The Lexus IS models include a standard leather-trimmed interior with 10-way power front seats; some competitive vehicles make a leather interior optional. The numerous standard amenities in the IS models also include dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, HomeLink® and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The AWD models in addition feature standard heated seats. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 194 watts (max.) total power, 13 speakers, iPod®/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming and an integrated satellite radio receiver. The Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Luxury Options
An optional Luxury Plus Package includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats, plus three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.
Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system’s color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
The Lexus IS also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.
Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative XM services including XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeather™ and XM Sports and Stocks services. XM services require separate XM subscriptions. The XM Sports and Stocks service is included with an XM radio subscription. All XM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and “air kick” tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there.
Interior Design
The IS models’ luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird’s-eye Maple trim, contribute to an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
The multi-information display located within the speedometer integrates a trip computer and an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location. When equipped with the available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.
F Sport Performance Accessories
Lexus offers a selection of F Sport Performance Accessories for the IS models, including performance-enhancing parts such as 19-inch forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust system and more. F Sport Performance Accessories by Lexus U.S.A. are engineered by Toyota Racing Development (TRD). When installed by an authorized dealer, the accessories are covered by warranty for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.
Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.

• All-New IS 350 All-Wheel Drive Model
• New F Sport Package for IS 250/350 Rear-Wheel Drive Model
• Revised Front Styling and Interior Trim
Lexus is expanding choices in its popular IS sport sedan line for 2011, adding a 306-horsepower IS 350 all-wheel drive (AWD) model and offering a new F Sport Package for the IS 250/350 rear-wheel drive (RWD). Revised front and rear styling details sharpen all IS models for 2011. In addition, the IS sedans feature minor interior trim changes.
A new front grille and bumper distinguish the IS sport sedans for 2011, while at the rear, the models show a new taillamp cover and revised tailpipe design. New HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps are standard on the IS 350 and available for the IS 250. Keeping with Lexus’ attention to detail, the 2011 IS models feature new-design standard 17-inch and optional 18-inch wheels, along with revised exterior color choices.
The IS 350 AWD model joins the IS 250 AWD, which has accounted for 30 percent (nationally) of IS 250 sales since the model’s introduction. Now, IS customers can have the traction and grip of all-wheel drive with the IS 350’s higher performance capability.
The F Sport Package available for the 2011 IS 250/350 RWD takes inspiration from the IS F ultra-performance sedan, combining special suspension and steering tuning and 18-inch wheels with distinctive design touches. Giving the IS 250/350 F Sport Package model a sporty demeanor are a front lip spoiler and rear deck spoiler, plus the 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark super-chrome finish. There is also a matching dark-chrome front grille insert, and a new Ultrasonic Blue exterior color is available in conjunction with the F Sport Package.
Inside, special F Sport heated front seats feature a special microfiber insert and leather side bolsters to provide more grip for the driver and passenger during cornering. The package also adds F Sport badging to the steering wheel, shift **** and doorsill scuff plates.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The IS 250’s 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350’s 3.5-liter V6 offers a more potent 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350 RWD model can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 also differs in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, optimizing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds.
An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS 350 models and the IS 250 AWD. The IS 250 RWD comes standard with a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS models provide a sporty driving experience while also offering a supple, quiet ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension use high-strength steel and aluminum components to reduce unsprung weight. Sophisticated monotube shock-absorbers integrate multi-leaf linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort.
The all-wheel-drive system available for the IS 250 and IS 350 provides extra traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system’s electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
Aiding the IS models’ traction and stability is Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). More advanced than other traction and stability systems, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and help correct the situation with a combination of braking and throttle control. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). The driver can disengage VSC via the “TRAC off” switch, which can be useful in certain situations.
The IS 350’s brake system is equipped with larger ventilated front and rear rotors and aluminum four-piston front calipers. Standard all-season performance tires are 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 and IS 350 AWD). Eighteen-inch wheels are available.
Safety/Security Features
A reinforced passenger compartment helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats. In addition to the advanced dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the IS includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide overall occupant protection.
The IS 250 offers optional High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with LED daytime running lamps. IS 350 models feature standard HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps and headlamp washers. The rear back-up camera, included with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse gear. The exterior mirrors integrate turn signals.
The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car’s front and rear bumpers, helping to alert the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any IS model is also equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system’s seven-inch touch screen display.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
The Lexus IS models include a standard leather-trimmed interior with 10-way power front seats; some competitive vehicles make a leather interior optional. The numerous standard amenities in the IS models also include dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, HomeLink® and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The AWD models in addition feature standard heated seats. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 194 watts (max.) total power, 13 speakers, iPod®/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming and an integrated satellite radio receiver. The Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Luxury Options
An optional Luxury Plus Package includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats, plus three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.
Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system’s color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
The Lexus IS also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.
Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative XM services including XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeather™ and XM Sports and Stocks services. XM services require separate XM subscriptions. The XM Sports and Stocks service is included with an XM radio subscription. All XM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and “air kick” tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there.
Interior Design
The IS models’ luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird’s-eye Maple trim, contribute to an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
The multi-information display located within the speedometer integrates a trip computer and an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location. When equipped with the available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.
F Sport Performance Accessories
Lexus offers a selection of F Sport Performance Accessories for the IS models, including performance-enhancing parts such as 19-inch forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust system and more. F Sport Performance Accessories by Lexus U.S.A. are engineered by Toyota Racing Development (TRD). When installed by an authorized dealer, the accessories are covered by warranty for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.
Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.
07-16-10, 09:36 PM
#2
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The one-trick ES may be the bread-and-butter car over at Lexus, but the number-two seller is where the action is. To keep the IS line fresh and appealing, Lexus has announced several updates across the line for 2011.
The most interesting updates are applied to the 2011 Lexus IS F sports sedan
The most interesting updates are applied to the 2011 Lexus IS F sports sedan
. (Note: A 2010 Lexus IS F is pictured as no pictures of the updated 2011 IS F are available.) While an impressive piece of work, we found it to be just short of the M3-beater Lexus was shooting for. After looking over feedback from its first three years on the road, Lexus has made some important updates for 2011 to address some of the biggest concerns facing the car.
Namely, Lexus has tackled the ride and handling. We found the IS F to be something of a punishing ride off the track and lacking the utterly intuitive steering of the M3. The folks at Lexus apparently agreed and set their engineers at righting those wrongs. To that end, they've revised all the spring rates and shock settings as well as the rear bushings and camber angle, all in the name of improved ride comfort and responsiveness. They also set about tweaking the electric power steering system to improve steering feel and driver control.
Unfortunately, Lexus also caved to recent allegations of electronic gremlins and installed a brake override function on the IS F, likely putting an end to power-braking launches and other such shenanigans.
Topping things off, Lexus also did a little sprucing up inside the car and out. Outside, the 2011 IS F gets some trendy LED daytime running lights while the interior is treated to new gauges, a silver-trimmed steering wheel, "dark finish aluminum" trim and a "Sport" button relocated from the center stack to the steering wheel. Cars ordered with the black interior now get seats with leather bolsters and Alcantara inserts to better hold you in turns. The Terra Cotta interior is out, replaced with a new orange and black leather interior package.
If the mighty IS F is a bit too rich for you blood, Lexus has also done some work on the standard IS. In fact, you can now get an "F Sport" package on your IS 250 or IS 350, provided they're of the rear-wheel-drive variety. F Sport models get front and trunk lip spoilers, a "dark chrome" grille insert, special "dark super-chrome" five-spoke 18-inch wheels and a new optional paint color called Ultrasonic Blue. More importantly, the F Sport Package gets special suspension and steering tuning to improve handling. Finally, F Sport models get new leather-and-microfiber seats to hold you in place and "F" badges on the steering wheel, shifter and door sills.
The biggest update for the average consumer, though, is the all-new IS 350 All-Wheel Drive model, essentially a more powerful version of the current IS 250 All-Wheel Drive, which by itself accounts for 30 percent of IS 250 sales nationally.
The IS 250C and IS 350C convertibles, meanwhile, get only minor changes. They include new black and silver interior trim and an optional Saddle Tan or Light Gray interior when you pop for the Luxury package. Deep Sea Mica replaces Ultrasonic Blue as the IS convertible's blue color option.
All 2011 IS models except the top-shelf IS F also get a slightly revised exterior. The front fascia received minor tweaks and is complemented by a revised grille and HID headlights with LED daytime running lights that are standard on the IS 350 and optional on the IS 250. Out back, the 2011 IS gets revised taillights and tailpipes.
Namely, Lexus has tackled the ride and handling. We found the IS F to be something of a punishing ride off the track and lacking the utterly intuitive steering of the M3. The folks at Lexus apparently agreed and set their engineers at righting those wrongs. To that end, they've revised all the spring rates and shock settings as well as the rear bushings and camber angle, all in the name of improved ride comfort and responsiveness. They also set about tweaking the electric power steering system to improve steering feel and driver control.
Unfortunately, Lexus also caved to recent allegations of electronic gremlins and installed a brake override function on the IS F, likely putting an end to power-braking launches and other such shenanigans.
Topping things off, Lexus also did a little sprucing up inside the car and out. Outside, the 2011 IS F gets some trendy LED daytime running lights while the interior is treated to new gauges, a silver-trimmed steering wheel, "dark finish aluminum" trim and a "Sport" button relocated from the center stack to the steering wheel. Cars ordered with the black interior now get seats with leather bolsters and Alcantara inserts to better hold you in turns. The Terra Cotta interior is out, replaced with a new orange and black leather interior package.
If the mighty IS F is a bit too rich for you blood, Lexus has also done some work on the standard IS. In fact, you can now get an "F Sport" package on your IS 250 or IS 350, provided they're of the rear-wheel-drive variety. F Sport models get front and trunk lip spoilers, a "dark chrome" grille insert, special "dark super-chrome" five-spoke 18-inch wheels and a new optional paint color called Ultrasonic Blue. More importantly, the F Sport Package gets special suspension and steering tuning to improve handling. Finally, F Sport models get new leather-and-microfiber seats to hold you in place and "F" badges on the steering wheel, shifter and door sills.
The biggest update for the average consumer, though, is the all-new IS 350 All-Wheel Drive model, essentially a more powerful version of the current IS 250 All-Wheel Drive, which by itself accounts for 30 percent of IS 250 sales nationally.
The IS 250C and IS 350C convertibles, meanwhile, get only minor changes. They include new black and silver interior trim and an optional Saddle Tan or Light Gray interior when you pop for the Luxury package. Deep Sea Mica replaces Ultrasonic Blue as the IS convertible's blue color option.
All 2011 IS models except the top-shelf IS F also get a slightly revised exterior. The front fascia received minor tweaks and is complemented by a revised grille and HID headlights with LED daytime running lights that are standard on the IS 350 and optional on the IS 250. Out back, the 2011 IS gets revised taillights and tailpipes.
07-16-10, 09:42 PM
#3
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The IS-F is cleaner and I like it all the more for it but the IS is becoming somewhat plain looking to me. Strange, since I used to really think it was the best looking current Lexus.
The GS still looks great to me though.
The GS still looks great to me though.
07-16-10, 10:08 PM
#4
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Not sure why it took this long to get an IS 350 AWD. I remember being 18 and raving at the dealer how stupid it was the the GS 300 was the only AWD model available and that you couldnt get the 430 in AWD. Thus, my dad got a BMW....Lexus is slowly getting the picture.
Still lolly gagging along with a lonely 6AT though. Boring.
Still lolly gagging along with a lonely 6AT though. Boring.
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07-17-10, 01:01 AM
#8
I like how Lexus arbitrarily lowered their previously understated 0 to 60 figure of 5.6 to a still understated figure of 5.3 with no change to the engine at all for the IS350.
07-17-10, 01:13 AM
#9
^i was wondering this as well, but then again, i think its better to be understating than overstating and not being able to back your stock car up with the numbers being spit out by the manufacturer.
as for the mini-facelift, the front looks ok, but reminds me of the 2010 corolla s a little bit. im not sure why lexus decided to bring USB to the ISx50 line, even if it is for the f-sport package. i thought that shouldve been exclusively for the F, but then again they did offer it for the IS C when it came out. and im really glad to see the 350 AWD come out. i was wondering why it wasnt produced till now, but better late then never.
as for the mini-facelift, the front looks ok, but reminds me of the 2010 corolla s a little bit. im not sure why lexus decided to bring USB to the ISx50 line, even if it is for the f-sport package. i thought that shouldve been exclusively for the F, but then again they did offer it for the IS C when it came out. and im really glad to see the 350 AWD come out. i was wondering why it wasnt produced till now, but better late then never.
07-17-10, 02:53 AM
#10
Lexus Fanatic
i see they switched the chrome trim around the grille. much better looking grille now.
the 2009 version was a nasty shape.
i like how the ISF grille is now an F sport option for the regular IS.
not sure about all those creases in the front bumper.
the 2009 version was a nasty shape.
i like how the ISF grille is now an F sport option for the regular IS.
not sure about all those creases in the front bumper.
07-17-10, 04:54 AM
#11
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Not sure why it took this long to get an IS 350 AWD. I remember being 18 and raving at the dealer how stupid it was the the GS 300 was the only AWD model available and that you couldnt get the 430 in AWD. Thus, my dad got a BMW....Lexus is slowly getting the picture.
Still lolly gagging along with a lonely 6AT though. Boring.
Still lolly gagging along with a lonely 6AT though. Boring.
Everyone seems to be trying to put the LED strips in everywhere after Audi did it, but not sure it is as well executed. Same with Benz, not really necessary.
07-17-10, 06:06 AM
#12
Pole Position
Ahhh welcome to LED DRL fad Lexus!
Why none of the automakers that use LED DRLs don't put LED tube instead of gazzillion little LEDs inside a headligths? It would look a lot nicer and more seamless. Check out Saab LED strips that resemple tubes in someway.
Unlike Audi/Jag/Merc LEDs, Lexus has made theirs with a lot more glow so they blend into each other (at least on new LS) which looks better. Audi/Jag/Merc looks like christmas tree lights so very tacky for me
Why none of the automakers that use LED DRLs don't put LED tube instead of gazzillion little LEDs inside a headligths? It would look a lot nicer and more seamless. Check out Saab LED strips that resemple tubes in someway.
Unlike Audi/Jag/Merc LEDs, Lexus has made theirs with a lot more glow so they blend into each other (at least on new LS) which looks better. Audi/Jag/Merc looks like christmas tree lights so very tacky for me
07-17-10, 09:56 AM
#14
^agreed, hids should be standard on all Lexus models.
The changes are ok. I like the new rims... but they're not enough for me to want to give up my '06 IS for this one. Will wait to see what the next gen looks like...
The changes are ok. I like the new rims... but they're not enough for me to want to give up my '06 IS for this one. Will wait to see what the next gen looks like...
07-17-10, 10:31 AM
#15
I continue to be very impressed with Lexus and how they handle the IS line...I hope they follow a similar model for the GS, LS, and 3SC in the future. The fact that they are making substantial upgrades a year or two before the redesign is a testament to their dedication in seeing this car succeed.
2006 IS debuts
2008 ISF is born, F Sport accessories are added
2009 IS line is refreshed
2010 ISc is added, LSD added for ISF
2011 IS line is refreshed again, numerous retuning and upgrades to the ISF, AWD for the IS350
2006 IS debuts
2008 ISF is born, F Sport accessories are added
2009 IS line is refreshed
2010 ISc is added, LSD added for ISF
2011 IS line is refreshed again, numerous retuning and upgrades to the ISF, AWD for the IS350
