I'm planning on replacing my 2016 NX Sport at the earliest possible opportunity. I'm considering everything from a truck to a Mustang GT or Jeep. Even a Tesla Model 3 is a consideration. Trucks are too expensive (hard to justify)for how much I might use one, and I worry about a Mustang in the winter (I'm in the Denver Metro area). Jeeps have had reliability issues in my experience, and I just can't decide what to think about the Tesla. Based on my experience with my last 2 Lexus's (bad choices, disappointing service), I promised myself I was done with them. However my wife's RX is a terrific car, so here I am considering another. I'm thinking either an IS or an RC is most likely, since I'm tired of trying to be practical, reasonable or even responsible. My favorite car I've owned was my 2011 IS350, so I'm thinking it makes sense to consider another. I might also consider an RC, just because I like coupes. It sounds like everyone is generally happy with both, but I'm worried about an upcoming refresh. I'm thinking there's one in the near future. Probably for the 2020 MY, and it would freak me out to buy a new IS (or RC), and have a new one come out next year! Has anyone heard rumors? Both models are due. Another thing. One of Lexus real weak points is their use of technology, seemingly 2 years or more behind everyone else. What is the consensus on the most recent (2019) tech? Is it OK on a daily basis? I don't know if they adopted ApplePlay, yet. Doesn't the UX have it? I'm hoping they've made substantial progress since my last purchase.

I don't do many miles. The RX is our road car, and mine gets me back and forth to the light rail station (my 2 1/2 year old NX only has 16K miles). I'm hoping that if I have a car that I actually enjoy driving, I'll drive more. Any help, ideas, or suggestions would be appreciated!

 

I would just keep what you have. The IS is fun but it's not going to change your life or driving habits. I have a CT and IS and drive the CT more. It's fun enough.

And you won't be seeing a new IS for a long time. Probably late 2020 as a MY21

 

Last I heard, some insiders (on Lexus Enthusiast) say that the next gen IS will begin production in July 2020 as a 2021 model year vehicle. I'm waiting for more details to drop (probably later this year) before I decide on my next upgrade. I'm especially interested to know about engine and transmission choices.

 

I suspect, based on common sense and combined with other info out there (posted by me a long time ago)

an increased displacement turbo 4.

2.4L 4 Cylinder Turbo pushing 255 and 300+ hp as the sole engine choices for the standard models. IS300 and IS400. I believe there is a chance for the IS400 to get a detuned TT V6 from the LS. But I believe it's looking more and more like the upper model to get a 2.4L 4 Turbo pushing 300+ hp.

And a performance IS-F model getting a TT V6 425 hp +.

I suspect both models to use a 10 speed automatic transmission with the performance getting a tweaked version.

My personal predictions.

I also predict a weight loss of 150 lbs vs the outgoing model.

 

I also think there will be an E model of some sort. probably hybrid. possibly electric. This could even form the basis of a higher tier model but i don't think this segment is ready for that yet.

 

If your predictions come true (and the IS400 does not happen), that would mean the IS only competes against the 330i, A4 and the C300. There won't be a mid-range model like the M340i, S4, C43 and Genesis G70. This seems a bit odd, considering that Infiniti has a Q50 Red Sport, Acura is making a turbo V6 engine for the TLX Type-S, and Genesis jumped in swinging with the 3.3T Lambda II in the G70. What would Lexus' reasoning be for this move, do you think?

 

I think it's a toss up. My earlier first prediction for a higher trim IS was a TT V6. But more and more automakers are learning you don't need 6 cylinders to make 300+ hp anymore. BMW, Mercedes, Ford are pumping out 300 hp+ 4-Turbos now.

 

Hope they keep the NA V6 but also have a turbo model to keep up with the times.

 

Personally, that's what I am predicting. They could develop a non-turbo version of the 3.4-liter engine used in the LS. Supposedly it's a brand-new engine architecture - I'm sure they had bigger things in mind than just the LS. The LS is important, don't get me wrong. But we've seen LS engines get handed-down to other models in the past (like the awesome GS 430 and GS 460). However, that's sort of optimistic on my part, I admit.

I wonder if an improved 8AR-FTS engine would be used in some future products, such as the new IS. Given the prototype of that engine that was recently shown (if I could find the link...), I doubt they are done with that platform.

 

Sounds like my dream car...