Lexus has unveiled its new IS sports sedan at the Beijing Motor Show, with new styling and updated safety, luxury and convenience features.
A dynamic new front fascia headlines the exterior styling changes with new headlamps, large air intakes in the front bumper and an evolution of Lexus’ signature spindle grille design.
The grille now folds back at a higher point, changing the proportions at the top and bottom sections to provide a sportier, more aggressive appearance while blending effortlessly into the reshaped bonnet, Lexus said.
The F Sport model spindle grille features an exclusive three-dimensional F-mesh pattern with jet-black metallic coating that incorporates functional brake ducts.
The new IS also features an enhanced character line on the side of the vehicle that adds to its dynamic profile while emphasising forward motion.
A range of new alloy wheels complement the refreshed design and utilise revised spoke arrangements and machined surfaces to create a powerful visual statement.
The updated rear design includes more pronounced L-shaped LED light guides with a triple layering feature in the taillight housing. New rectangular chrome exhaust tips also accentuate the IS sedan’s sporting nature and tie in with the angular design ethos employed.
A new multimedia screen, which has increased in size from seven to 10.3 inches, represents the key update to the IS cabin. The new high resolution display offers a larger and clearer image of the various functions of Lexus’ advanced multimedia system.
“Enter” buttons have been added to the sides of the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) on the centre console to boost user functionality (as employed on the new RX launched earlier in the year).
The audio and ventilation control panel has also been refined to fit completely within the enlarged knee bolsters with a new hairline-finish surface that provides visual appeal while also giving a high quality feel.
New stitching on the meter hood and refined speedometer and tachometer deliver an additional sporty feel, while new cup holder designs that are reshaped to also house larger smart phones, a larger leather-wrapped palm rest and new markings for the premium in-dash analogue clock provide additional convenience and luxury touches.
The existing line-up of powerful and efficient engine offerings will continue on the new IS sedan, starting with the innovative 2.0-litre twin-scroll turbocharged four cylinder unit of the IS 200t, alongside the charismatic 3.5-litre quad cam V6 of the IS 350.
The new IS sedan is scheduled to arrive towards the end of the year, with local specification and pricing to be announced at a later date, the manufacturer said.
