The Lexus IS is a medium executive saloon that combines style and practicality. The IS could work as a family car, although space is limited in the back and the boot is also very small, so buying one as a regular family vehicle may not be wise. The IS has a very affordable asking price compared to its competitors, whilst being just as well equipped in terms of style and performance. It possesses class and sophistication in abundance, and offers a smooth, enjoyable drive.
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Latest Lexus IS Car Reviews:
The Lexus IS 200d SE is classy and fast. It offers good competition to medium executive class leaders such as the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. It performs best on smooth roads and comes with such an e...
The IS 200d offers Lexus' legendary quality and reliability and its a handsome car too. The ride isn't up to much and performance could be better but if you're looking for an executive barge with l...
There is no doubt that the Lexus IS is a wonderfully refined and luxurious vehicle, and the driving experience is pleasant enough too. The range of equipment to be found in the car is exceptional ...
This car packs a punch! The V8 engine not only makes a fantastic sound but also produces impressive power and performance. This IS F hasn’t substituted sport for comfort so you still get a very com...
The IS saloon is the premium alternative to the German saloons that dominate the market, and the levels of luxury to be found in the car are very good, while the performance delivered by the powerf...
Lexus IS Overview
The Lexus IS comes standard with keyless entry and start plus a security alarm. The smart key can be programmed to open one, two or all four doors at once. Also standard is a 13-speaker sound system with a six-disc CD changer and MP3 compatibility.
In the United Kingdom two versions of the Lexus IS are sold; the IS 250 and the IS 220d, both rear-wheel drive. The car is available with a wide range of engines and transmissions, including an 8-speed automatic version.
Background
The Lexus IS was first produced in 1998, and originally available as a four-door saloon. The car received critical acclaim and had a top speed of 134mph.
In 2000, a five-door hatchback version of the car was made available, which featured a 3 litre 6-speed engine. The first generation IS interior featured unique elements not typically found in other Lexus models. These included a chrome metal ball shifter and a pop-up navigation screen. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test results in 2001 gave the IS 300 the maximum five stars in the Side Driver and Side Rear Passenger categories, and four stars in the Frontal Driver and Frontal Passenger categories.
In 2005 a completely redesigned second generation of the Lexus IS was introduced. It was equipped with improved safety features and sleeker, coupe-like contours.
The five-door hatchback version was dropped from the line-up after low sales. In late 2006 the existence of a high-performance variant of the IS was confirmed, which was capable of 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds and had a top speed of 170mph.
In 2009 a two-door convertible version of the model was introduced, with improved steering and suspension. In 2010 the diesel version of the car returned with improved fuel consumption figures.
Summary
The IS has been a very successful model for Lexus throughout its lifetime, and continues to attract buyers with its sophisticated style and high level of performance.
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