Meet The New Lexus IS

Introduced in 1999, The compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedans have sold more than a million units.
Introduced in 1999, The compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedans have sold more than a million units.

Not much has changed when it comes to the design, but Lexus has focused a lot on driving dynamics which they call “Lexus Driving Signature.” When it comes to aesthetics, the changes are subtle but noticeable. The car is lower, wider than the car it replaces. This is mostly to make room for wheel and suspension changes. When it comes to wheels, Lexus has added a set of new 19-inch wheels. A new-design Lexus Spindle Grille features a three-dimensional structure that originates from the foremost tip of the grille. Block forms based on a spindle motif combine with a mesh pattern to achieve a sporty impression.

When it comes to the headlights, the Nike like swoosh (daytime running lights) has moved into the headlight cluster. The biggest change at the back comes in the form of an L-shaped light bar that spans across the rear of the car. Lexus has added two more colours to the range, Sonic Iridium and Sonic Chrome. The F Sport version boasts an exclusive “F” mesh pattern as well as a grille-bottom air intake, special 19-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and the F Sport-exclusive Radiant Red Contrast Layering external panel colour.

The new IS boasts a new version of Lexus Safety System+, which includes added functions such as Emergency Steering Assist. The firms The Pre-Collision System has also been improved. Other safety features include Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Automatic High Beam, parking support brakes, and the Panoramic View Monitor. Inside a new multimedia system features a new touchscreen while available chromatic colours are used on the upper instrument panel.

Lexus South Africa says that the new IS will be available for sale in Mzansi early next year. The range will comprise three model derivatives which Lexus SA will announce at launch

Images: Quickpic

Malusi Msomi
Lover of all things cars. Automotive photographer, freelance motoring journalist and founder of one of the biggest social media automotive communities in the country, DBN Spotter. My world revolves around three words; Drive, shoot, write.