IS 300h not for the US (discussion thread)
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Lead Lap
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IS 300h not for the US (discussion thread)
Lexus unveiled its the hybrid version of the IS sedan, but it's not coming to the U.S.
For here, Lexus is going to sell 2 versions with conventional V-6 engines, underscoring performance that makes them fun to drive. The car, which has a "bold, powerful stance," has been tested at raceways around the world, Mark Templin, head of the Lexus brand in the U.S., told reporters at the North American International Auto Show here.
In the U.S., the IS will come as either the IS 250, with a 2.5 liter engine, or the IS 350, with a 3.5-liter powerplant. In Japan, Europe and some other markets, there will be an IS 300h, the hybrid.
Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor Sales, says it was decided to not bring the IS hybrid to the U.S. because it is sandwiched between 2 other models in the lineup that have them -- the cheaper CT Hybrid and the more expensive ES Hybrid. "We feel we can bracket that market," Lentz said in an interview.
To keep the IS interesting, drivers can choose from 4 different driving modes -- Eco, Normal, Sport and, for the 3.5-liter version only, Sport Plus. It's the 1st vehicle, Lexus says, to measure g-forces and use "artificial intelligence" to help shift the car.
The new IS comes to showrooms in June.
Pole Position
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The real reason is that they foresee that almost every IS sold in Europe will be the IS300h so they probably don't have the production capability to produce anymore for the US market.
Secondly, the US is still receptive to the 2.5L engine unlike Europe so they may be clearing excess inventory of 2.5L engines, using the US as a clearing house so to speak. Expect the IS300h to make its US debut 6mth to 1 year after the official 3IS debut.
That's my take on it anyway. Since its essentially a no brainer decision to bring the IS300h to the US. The thing would literally sell itself!!
Secondly, the US is still receptive to the 2.5L engine unlike Europe so they may be clearing excess inventory of 2.5L engines, using the US as a clearing house so to speak. Expect the IS300h to make its US debut 6mth to 1 year after the official 3IS debut.
That's my take on it anyway. Since its essentially a no brainer decision to bring the IS300h to the US. The thing would literally sell itself!!
Lexus Fanatic
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The real reason is that they foresee that almost every IS sold in Europe will be the IS300h so they probably don't have the production capability to produce anymore for the US market.
Secondly, the US is still receptive to the 2.5L engine unlike Europe so they may be clearing excess inventory of 2.5L engines, using the US as a clearing house so to speak. Expect the IS300h to make its US debut 6mth to 1 year after the official 3IS debut.
That's my take on it anyway. Since its essentially a no brainer decision to bring the IS300h to the US. The thing would literally sell itself!!
Secondly, the US is still receptive to the 2.5L engine unlike Europe so they may be clearing excess inventory of 2.5L engines, using the US as a clearing house so to speak. Expect the IS300h to make its US debut 6mth to 1 year after the official 3IS debut.
That's my take on it anyway. Since its essentially a no brainer decision to bring the IS300h to the US. The thing would literally sell itself!!
as to the why, i would guess it is price - IS300h will be $5k more expensive in Europe than 250. So IS350 and IS300h would be same price.
CL Community Team
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From: California
Lexus unveiled its the hybrid version of the IS sedan, but it's not coming to the U.S.
Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor Sales, says it was decided to not bring the IS hybrid to the U.S. because it is sandwiched between 2 other models in the lineup that have them -- the cheaper CT Hybrid and the more expensive ES Hybrid. "We feel we can bracket that market," Lentz said in an interview.
The CTh and ESh are fwd hybrids whereas the ISh is a rwd hybrid (just like the GSh) and will sell well here in the U.S.
It appears Lexus discontinued the diesel IS (IS 200d/220d) and replaced it with the hybrid IS (IS 300h). Well the diesel IS never made it to the U.S. and I guess the hybrid IS won't make it here either. Bummer!
Last edited by Trexus; Jan 16, 2013 at 10:58 AM.
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From: Under an IS F since 2008
Lexus Europe happily announced that the MY14 IS300 h will also be available in F-Sport Package.. 
+ Bonus LED Fog Lights..
F-Sport IS300 h with LED Fogs (Euro/JDM Spec)
2014 IS300 h w/ F-Sport Package
F SPORT | DYNAMIC RESPONSE
FULL HYBRID | THE POWER OF h
Enjoy,
~ Joe Z
+ Bonus LED Fog Lights..
F-Sport IS300 h with LED Fogs (Euro/JDM Spec)
2014 IS300 h w/ F-Sport Package
F SPORT | DYNAMIC RESPONSE
- Sport S+ mode on the IS 300h F SPORT retunes adaptive variable suspension and power steering for a more dynamic drive.
Unmistakably bold, the IS 300h and IS 250 F SPORT models feature exclusive 18-inch alloys, F SPORT grille and LED fog lights.
Inside, you’re greeted by amazing LFA-style instruments.
FULL HYBRID | THE POWER OF h
- The new IS 300h delivers 220 din hp of full hybrid power, yet is targeted to emit less than 100 g/km of CO2. Powered by third-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive, the IS 300h intelligently combines an advanced 2.5-litre direct-injection petrol engine with a high-output electric motor, while innovative Active Sound Control delivers a sophisticated engine note.
Enjoy,
~ Joe Z
Last edited by Joe Z; Jan 16, 2013 at 11:44 AM.
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From: Under an IS F since 2008
