I hope this is not a repost, but i just read on AOL Autos that the new IS350 will only have 245hp?? They did a whole preview of 2006 models and the new IS was one of them. Here is what they wrote:

"2006 Lexus IS250/IS350: Despite the race pedigree of the in-line six-cylinder engine, Lexus will be dropping this engine type and switching over to a conventional V-6 engine to power the second generation IS sport sedan -- leaving rival BMW as the only brand of sport sedan still available with a straight six. And there will be two sub-models to choose from -- each with their own version of this engine. The entry level IS250 will come equipped a small-displacement (2.5 liter) V-6 with expected output of approximately 205-hp, a slight drop from the '05 IS300's 215-hp, 3-liter inline six. But the step-up model -- the '06 IS350 -- will be fitted with a much more potent 3.5 liter, 245-hp V-6 tied to a six-speed manual tranmission. As before, the IS will remain rear-wheel-drive -- but all-wheel-drive will be available for the first time. Also new: a race-derived sequential manual transmission similar to the unit used in the BMW 645 and M6. The new ISD will also offer a touch-screen, voice-activated navigation system, premium Mark Levinson audiophile stereo and and "Optitron" instrument cluster.

Base price: $29,000 (estimated)"

Something tells me this is nothing more than speculation.. If that's the case, then they probably shouldn't write anything at all.. Anyway, here's the link if you want to check out the whole article:

http://www.aol.com/autos/article/4.adp

Sorry but that's old misinformed news. If they're talking about a 6 speed manual transmission, that's the IS250. Lexus Press Releases already confirmed over 300 hp for the IS350. I even announced this information back in October 2004 when Lexus Marketing & Team Lexus - Chuck Goldsboro briefed us at our Terrace Suites @ California Speedway during the Lexus Grand Am Cup Weekend.

I like the part about six-speed manual transmission though! Perhaps they meant 345hp?!

Well, then AOL really shouldn't be putting out articles like this.. it's false advertising....

AOL also statest that their software is bug free, when it actually corrupts Windows system files. They also state that they protect against viruses, when a ton of viruses come through it since it's an email client.

I wouldn't believe AOL for a second. About anything. Including pre-release car info.

Interesting article. However...

It sure is going to take some time to get used to the switched tach and speedo in the IS. Especially when you swap back and forth with other cars you own. I wonder why they decided to put the speedo on the left?I hope they change that when the car actually comes out.

AOL is crazy. If it's the same motor as the Avalon + direct injection and even better flowing exhaust and intake setup, then how could it possibly have any less than the Avalon which already has 280hp???

Wow I never really noticed that. I mean I saw where they were, but I never really thought about them being opposite of all the other cars I've owned.

dunno, when was the last time i trust stuff from aol... @_@

Unfortunately, that's todays information world. More and more infos on anything, leading to more and more errors.

But we really shouldn't care for AOL mistake. They were confused between the GS V6 3.0 liter 245 HP that could have been put under the IS hood and what turned out to be quite a surprise the new 3.5 V5 boosted to 300 +. They should have checked or at least read the New York annoncement.

Anyhow, who would rely on AOL to collect serious infos?.

easily a mistake. no reason to make a big deal out of it.

Thank you. This is closed
1. Old unreliable news
2. Lexus themselves stated over 300hp