The 2016 Lexus Is 200t marked a significant shift for the Japanese luxury brand, injecting a dose of turbocharged performance into its entry-level sports sedan. For years, Lexus had been synonymous with reliability and understated luxury, often appealing to a more mature demographic. However, the IS 200t aimed to broaden its appeal, targeting a new generation of drivers seeking a blend of Lexus refinement with more engaging driving dynamics. This review delves into the specifics of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t, exploring its engine performance, interior features, exterior styling, and overall driving experience to determine if it successfully bridges the gap between luxury and sport.
Exterior Styling: A Bold Statement
The first impression of the 2016 Lexus IS 200t is undeniably its striking design. Lexus moved away from the conservative lines of previous generations, embracing a bolder and more aggressive aesthetic. The most prominent feature is the “Predator” or spindle grille, a large, hourglass-shaped design that dominates the front fascia. While polarizing, it gives the IS 200t a distinctive and assertive presence on the road. The review car, finished in a vibrant Redline, further amplified this bold statement, although more subtle colors like Atomic Silver might better accentuate the car’s sculpted lines for some tastes.
Flanking the imposing grille are sharp, angular headlights with distinctive LED daytime running lights, adding to the modern and sophisticated look. The bodywork is heavily sculpted, particularly around the rear fenders, giving the IS 200t a muscular stance. Despite being the smaller sedan in the Lexus lineup compared to the ES, the IS’s design language makes it appear compact and agile. The rear continues the dramatic styling with L-shaped taillights that extend along the trunk lid, creating a cohesive design element that visually reduces the perceived bulk of the trunk. Dual exhaust outlets add a sporty touch, though they are primarily for aesthetics, maintaining symmetry across different IS trims.
Interior Comfort and Features: Lexus Refinement
Stepping inside the 2016 Lexus IS 200t reveals the hallmarks of Lexus craftsmanship: high-quality materials, meticulous attention to detail, and an emphasis on comfort. The interior is well-appointed with plush materials throughout, creating a luxurious ambiance expected in a Lexus vehicle. Ergonomics are generally excellent, with controls logically placed and easy to reach. The gear shifter is positioned for convenient manual shifting, should the driver choose to engage the eight-speed automatic transmission manually.
The steering wheel is comfortable and offers both tilt and telescopic adjustment, although the absence of a power-adjustable steering column at this price point is a minor oversight, especially for taller drivers who appreciate the added entry and exit space. The optional F-Sport seats are a standout feature, providing excellent support and comfort, even on long journeys. Ventilated and heated functions enhance comfort in varying climates. While the light-colored leatherette in the test vehicle looked attractive, darker options might be more practical for families to resist stains.
Rear passenger space is adequate for shorter trips but might feel a bit cramped for larger adults on longer drives. However, children will find the rear seats comfortable. One notable drawback in the interior design is the placement of the front cupholders. Their positioning in the center console intrudes into passenger elbow space and their close proximity can make it difficult to accommodate two larger cups simultaneously, a surprising design flaw in an otherwise well-thought-out interior.
Performance and Driving Experience: Turbocharged Fun
Under the hood, the 2016 Lexus IS 200t features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a departure from the naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines traditionally associated with Lexus. This engine produces 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for spirited driving. While on paper, it boasts more horsepower than competitors like the BMW 320i, real-world performance figures, such as 0-60 mph times around 7 seconds, are comparable.
The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth and almost imperceptible shifts in normal driving mode. Switching to Sport mode sharpens throttle response and shift points, enhancing the driving experience for more engaging roads. While a manual transmission is not offered, the automatic provides a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. The IS 200t’s handling is a strong point, offering tight steering and a well-tuned suspension that inspires confidence in corners. The ride, however, leans towards the firmer side, which, while contributing to sporty handling, can be slightly less forgiving on rougher road surfaces. Road noise is also a bit more noticeable than expected in a Lexus, particularly compared to the more comfort-oriented ES model.
Technology and Audio: Intuitive and Immersive
Instead of a touchscreen interface common in many modern cars, the 2016 Lexus IS 200t utilizes aRemote Touchpad, a joystick-like controller located in the center console, to manage the infotainment system displayed on a recessed screen in the dashboard. While touchscreens are often considered intuitive, the Remote Touch system requires a slight learning curve but offers benefits like keeping the screen further away from the driver’s eyes, potentially reducing eye strain, and eliminating fingerprint smudges on the display.
For audiophiles, the optional Mark Levinson 17-speaker premium audio system is a worthwhile upgrade. It delivers exceptional sound quality, providing a rich and immersive audio experience that can easily drown out unwanted background noise.
Comparison with Competitors: Balancing Sport and Luxury
When cross-shopping in the entry-level sports sedan segment, the 2016 Lexus IS 200t naturally competes with models like the Infiniti Q50 and the BMW 3 Series. Compared to the Infiniti Q50 2.0t, the IS 200t offers a more engaging driving experience with tighter steering and a more responsive suspension. The Lexus also feels more agile, likely due to its rear-wheel-drive configuration being lighter than the all-wheel-drive Q50.
However, the Infiniti Q50 prioritizes ride comfort, offering a smoother and quieter ride, particularly on less-than-perfect roads. The BMW 3 Series, a perennial benchmark in the segment, offers a broader range of engine options and is often praised for its refined driving dynamics. The Lexus IS 200t carves out its niche by blending Lexus luxury and reliability with a more sporty edge thanks to its turbocharged engine and sharp handling, appealing to buyers who want a balance of both worlds.
Conclusion: A Sporty Lexus with Minor Quirks
The 2016 Lexus IS 200t successfully injects sportiness into the Lexus IS lineup, offering a compelling option for those seeking a luxury sports sedan with a turbocharged engine and engaging driving dynamics. Its bold styling, luxurious interior, and spirited performance make it an attractive choice in the competitive segment. While the ride is firmer and road noise is slightly more pronounced than some competitors, the IS 200t excels in delivering a balanced driving experience. Minor drawbacks like the cupholder placement and lack of a power steering column are easily overlooked in light of the car’s overall strengths. For drivers seeking a Lexus with a more youthful and dynamic character, the 2016 Lexus IS 200t is a compelling contender.
