They should have done this with the 2008 model year. It's hard to get one and it just seems to frustrate people especially in light of the fact that it appears that a lot of the special order problems involve a manual transmission. Perhaps that is Lexus's way of saying not to order that version of the car, and when no one wants one because they can't get one that'll be Lexus's cue to say no one buys them so we're dropping the option. I think for their reputation it would be in the best interest of Lexus to be rid of the manual transmission option.

 

I'd guess no major change in the IS line until model year 2011. That would be a 5 year run of the current platform. Lexus may even extend it to 2012. With the release of the IS-F in a few months, they will milk the current IS line for another 3 years. Expect minor changes over the next few years (ie. coinholder, different colors, IS250 power increase, different style wheels).

I doubt they would even come out with a coupe or convertible for the current IS model. Why launch a coupe or convertible more than halfway through the model life? I forsee 2012, 3rd generation IS as a coupe and sedan with a convertible coupe the following year, offered in 3 trims, ie. 250, 350, and IS-F.

 

I agree with the first 3 items. I'd be surprised to see turn signal mirrors. They should have done this by now--even the Avalon has it. Lexus.com does not specify this as a std feature for the GS Hybrid:

Mirrors Power-adjustable, electrochromic (auto-dimming) outside mirrors with defoggers and auto tilt-down in reverse

I see the LS all over the place, and I dont even see that model with turn signal mirrors (which is ridiculous)

 

I agree, but it appears that the 2008 Audi S5 may be there now:

 

There should be cosmetic changes to the IS350 by '09 (other than the IS-F), because there are cosmetic changes to the '08 GS460.

My hypothesized guesses: new LED taillights, clear front headlights and turn signals, new rear bumper design and reflectors, perhaps a new wood trim option, different interior and guage lighting scheme, and a new spoiler option.

 

Wow, that Audi looks too much like the 3 series coupe IMO...

As for the IS, I dont think they will change that much. Lexus is pretty subtle with their changes within a generation from what I have noticed over the years. I def think they will do new tail lights at least though. Probably the clear ones.

 

I'm not a fan of the clear tail light lenses. Seems to be the trend. I've seen it more on the cheaper cars than the expensive ones. The clear plastic just looks cheap to me. I wish the IS had LED turn signals to match the brake lights.

 

Personally I dont think they will change much of anything. The last IS didnt change worth a damn during its lifetime, nor did the last ES. Simple things like wheel designs, grille designs, colors or trim may be altered, but other than that I feel it will more than likely stay the same until 2010 or 11. However I do feel they need to come out with a coupe that has enough differences to stand out from the sedan all while being easily identified as an IS, similar to how Infiniti executed the G series. Also, if they do in fact come out with a coupe I feel it would be in their best interest to offer a manual trans so as to properly compete with the likes of the G37 and 3 series coupes. From what I have heard however they did a pretty poor job on the current manual in the IS250, however it is their first real run at doing a mass production manual trans.

 

Folding hard top....I hope

 

mist likely they will have facelift....or they will come out with a "XX" edition.......

lexus are well know for that....

 

Hopefully, an IS Coupe will come out but I can't imagine seeing a fully re-designed IS until late 2010 for the 2011 model.

 

Is real-time traffic on the NAV too much to ask for? I've been waiting and waiting for this to be supported. That'd be a nice addition for next year.

- T

 

that girl and the s5 are very sexy!

 

They'll probably pull a classic BMW trick by making stuff like the HID or 18 inch wheels standard, while raising the price only a few hundred bucks. That way you market a lower OTD price to the consumer, but doesn't kill resale values of the previous owners by as much.

 

I am trying to decide whether to trade my wrecked and repaired car on a 2008 or wait until 2009. Does anyone know when there will be more definite information on changes for 2009? I am afraid to wait and risk them discontinuing GFM in 09 on the other hand maybe there will be some changes so I will not be trading for exactly the same car.