The Lexus IS sedan has long held a significant position in the luxury automotive landscape, boasting over a million global sales and a reputation for blending sporty dynamics with Lexus’ renowned refinement. The 2017 Lexus Is represents a mid-cycle evolution, showcasing not just cosmetic updates, but a deep commitment to enhanced driving performance, sophisticated styling, and a cabin that embodies meticulous craftsmanship, exceptional comfort, and intuitive human-machine interface (HMI) design.
Lexus Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi articulated the driving force behind the 2017 IS enhancements: “Before starting work on the new IS, my designers travelled the world, interviewing customers and searching for inspiration. This research phase was vital, as we were challenged with taking the already successful IS to the next level.” This dedication to understanding customer needs and desires is evident in the comprehensive updates implemented in the 2017 model.
The design philosophy for the 2017 Lexus IS focused on creating a more assertive and confident presence while retaining its athletic stance and coupe-like roofline. Kobayashi elaborates, “After months of design sketches and computer time, our craftsmen were ready to model the bodywork. While keeping its athletic stance and long coupe roofline, we’ve given the IS a more confident look. New design elements include a stronger spindle grille, enhanced side kick-up line and jewel-like LED lighting that all combine to create the most distinctive IS we have ever built.”
Beyond aesthetics, the 2017 Lexus IS underwent rigorous engineering enhancements. Kobayashi’s team invested an unprecedented level of attention for a mid-lifecycle program, subjecting the car to extensive real-world and test-track evaluations. This commitment to pushing boundaries is reflected in the introduction of new lightweight suspension components and refined adjustments to the coil springs, shock absorbers, and stabilizer bar, all meticulously engineered to deliver a more engaging driving experience without compromising Lexus’ signature ride comfort.
A significant addition to the 2017 Lexus IS is the inclusion of Lexus Safety System+. This suite of advanced safety technologies underscores Lexus’ dedication to driver and passenger safety, equipping the car with features designed to prevent accidents and mitigate potential impact. Features such as Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert enhance driver awareness of surrounding hazards, while the advanced LED headlights provide superior illumination for safer nighttime driving.
The interior of the 2017 Lexus IS also received meticulous attention to detail, with subtle yet impactful refinements to the shape, placement, and appearance of controls. These enhancements reflect a focus on both heightened sensory quality and optimized HMI performance. Notable upgrades include a larger 10.3-inch high-resolution display for the Lexus Premium Navigation system and the availability of exquisite laser-etched dark wood trim, previously introduced in the RX luxury SUV.
Further enhancing the appeal of the 2017 Lexus IS are new alloy wheel designs, updated exterior and interior color palettes, and a more potent 10-speaker Pioneer Premium Sound audio system. The powertrain options remain consistent, offering the efficient IS 300h full hybrid and the dynamic 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol IS 200t, paired with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission.
Exterior and Interior Design: A Refined Evolution
The 2017 Lexus IS builds upon the already popular design language of its predecessor, retaining the core essence of its exterior aesthetics while introducing impactful refinements, particularly to the front fascia.
Exterior Design: Sharper Lines, Stronger Presence
Recognizing the enduring appeal of the current generation IS styling, Lexus designers focused on evolving the front-end design to project a more assertive and dynamic character. The most prominent change is the redesigned front, featuring new headlamps, enlarged air intakes integrated into the bumper, and a further evolution of the iconic Lexus spindle grille.
The redesigned headlamps, now featuring full LED technology, exhibit a more pronounced and angular design, extending inwards to create a distinctive visual signature. This sharp styling accentuates the signature “L” configuration of the daytime running lights, contributing to a more focused and modern appearance. The bumper, seamlessly integrating larger air intakes, flows gracefully from the front wings, creating a wider and more planted stance on the road.
Image alt text: 2017 Lexus IS front end showcasing redesigned spindle grille and sharp LED headlights, emphasizing the sporty and aggressive styling of the luxury sedan.
The signature spindle grille of the 2017 IS adopts a more pronounced angle, leaning back at a higher point than before. This subtle yet effective change alters the proportions of the upper and lower grille sections, resulting in a sportier visual balance and creating the impression of a lower center of gravity. The grille seamlessly merges into the reshaped bonnet, contributing to a cohesive and sculpted front profile.
The profile of the 2017 Lexus IS is further refined by a more pronounced character line that flows along the vehicle’s length, adding a sense of dynamism and visual interest. Complementing the updated styling are a selection of new 16, 17, and 18-inch wheel designs. These include two standout options: a 17-inch wheel featuring five sets of twin spokes with a bright machined finish, and a sophisticated multi-spoke 18-inch rim design.
The rear of the 2017 Lexus IS receives subtle yet impactful updates, highlighted by new triple-layered LED light guides and redesigned rectangular exhaust tips with a chrome finish. These elements further accentuate the sporty DNA of the IS, adding a touch of modern sophistication to the rear styling.
Expanding the exterior color palette, Lexus introduces two new shades for the 2017 IS: Deep Blue Mica and Graphite Black. These new options offer customers greater personalization and further enhance the visual appeal of the refreshed sedan.
Enhanced Interior Design and Human-Machine Interface (HMI)
Inside the cabin of the 2017 Lexus IS, meticulous attention has been paid to enhancing both visual and tactile quality, alongside improvements to the HMI for displays and controls. These refinements aim to elevate the overall sensory experience and user-friendliness of the interior.
Multimedia Systems, Remote Touch Interface, and Connectivity
A key upgrade in the 2017 Lexus IS interior is the significantly larger centrally mounted screen for the Lexus Premium Navigation multimedia system. Increasing in size from 7 to 10.3 inches, this new high-resolution display presents information with greater clarity and detail. The implementation of a split-screen design allows for simultaneous display of different information, enhancing driver convenience by enabling quick glances and function selection with minimal distraction from driving.
All 2017 Lexus IS models come equipped with a comprehensive multimedia system featuring USB, Aux-in, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Lexus Premium Navigation package further enhances connectivity with the latest iteration of the Remote Touch Interface control and optional in-car Wi-Fi. Voice command operation is also supported for hands-free control of the system. The Remote Touch Interface on the center console benefits from improved HMI design with the addition of a dedicated “Enter” button on its side, simplifying operation.
The standard Lexus Media Display features a seven-inch screen and utilizes a rotary dial in the center console for content control.
Revised Cabin Features with Takumi Craftsmanship
Embodying Lexus’ commitment to Takumi craftsmanship, the 2017 IS interior features subtle yet significant refinements. The audio and ventilation control panel in the center of the dashboard has been redesigned to sit more seamlessly between the knee bolsters, featuring a new hairline finish for a premium tactile feel.
New stitching details around the instrument binnacle hood add to the sporty ambiance of the cockpit, exemplifying Takumi attention to detail. Refinements to the speedometer and tachometer further enhance the visual appeal of the instrument cluster. Practical upgrades include new cup holders, a larger leather-wrapped and stitched palm rest for the Remote Touch Interface, and updated dial markings on the analog clock positioned centrally on the dashboard.
Image alt text: 2017 Lexus IS interior dashboard highlighting the upgraded 10.3-inch high-resolution display, laser-etched dark wood trim, and meticulously crafted control layout, demonstrating Lexus’ focus on luxury and user experience.
New Laser-Etched Dark Wood Trim Inserts
For the first time in the IS model range, the 2017 Lexus IS offers laser-etched dark wood trim inserts. These exquisite trim pieces are produced by skilled craftspeople at Yamaha Fine Technologies, utilizing a technique often employed in the creation of high-end musical instruments.
The innovative process involves precise laser-etching to cut through the wood veneer, revealing a layer of aluminum beneath. This creates a striking visual contrast between the natural warmth of the wood and the cool metallic appearance of the aluminum. A clear, protective top coat, polished to a high shine, further enhances the depth and richness of the finish.
Improved Pioneer Premium Sound System
The Pioneer Premium Sound System in the 2017 Lexus IS has been upgraded with the addition of two 9cm Coherent Source Transducer speakers, positioned on each side of the instrument panel. These speakers integrate a tweeter and mid-range speaker, expanding the system to a total of 10 speakers and further enhancing sound reproduction quality.
The system incorporates a fully digital, Class-D, eight-channel amplifier, engineered to deliver virtually distortion-free sound with minimal voltage losses. The high-definition amplification faithfully reproduces natural sound dynamics and rich harmonies through the 10-speaker layout, which includes a 55mm wide-range tweeter. System functionalities include AM/FM/DAB radio tuner, DVD/CD player, and Bluetooth connectivity.
15-speaker Mark Levinson® Premium Surround System
For audiophiles seeking a truly immersive in-car audio experience, the 2017 Lexus IS offers an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System. Specifically designed for the IS interior, this system delivers 5.1-channel digital surround sound through a speaker array utilizing GreenEdgeTM technology. GreenEdgeTM technology enhances efficiency, producing twice the sound output for the same energy consumption compared to conventional systems. An Auto Volume System intelligently adjusts audio performance between different artists and recordings, ensuring optimal sound delivery.
New Interior Color Options
Expanding interior personalization options, two new shades have been introduced for selected markets: Nuance Black (exclusive to Sport grade models) and Noble Brown. Additionally, the previous Moonstone and Ivory options have been replaced by Sandstone, a new light shade that blends the elegance of Ivory with a more contemporary, lighter tone.
IS F SPORT: Amplifying the Sporting Spirit
The 2017 Lexus IS range continues to offer F SPORT versions for both the IS 300h and IS 200t, injecting an even greater dose of sporty styling and performance-oriented features.
Visually, the F SPORT models make a bolder statement with a dark chrome finish on the spindle grille and an exclusive three-dimensional “F” mesh pattern. The lower grille section incorporates functional cooling ducts for the brakes, seamlessly integrated with the car’s side garnishes to enhance aerodynamics. Larger, newly designed 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels are standard on F SPORT models.
Inside the cabin, F SPORT models feature a distinctive three-spoke F SPORT steering wheel, supportive sports front seats, LFA-inspired instrumentation, Naguri machined aluminum-effect trim inlays, and an aluminum pedal set. Adaptive Variable Suspension and specially tuned steering are incorporated to ensure the handling dynamics live up to the assertive visual promise.
Performance: Precision Engineering for an Engaging Drive
The 2017 Lexus IS benefits from meticulous engineering refinements focused on enhancing driving performance. These improvements are the result of extensive aerodynamic fine-tuning and chassis enhancements.
Focus on Aerodynamic Excellence
Lexus engineers dedicated hundreds of hours to wind tunnel testing to optimize the aerodynamics of the 2017 Lexus IS. Utilizing a 260-meter long wind tunnel capable of generating hurricane-force winds, they meticulously scrutinized airflow and made detailed adjustments, even as minute as adding aluminum tape behind the rear bumper to ensure smooth airflow.
Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi emphasizes the importance of this approach: “At 100km/h a car’s performance is affected largely by wind resistance. Even driving around the city, aerodynamics affects both fuel efficiency and handling. It might not be the easy way, but this approach has resulted in one of the most refined sedans ever built.”
Revised Suspension and Steering for Improved Dynamic Performance
Significant improvements in the dynamic performance of the 2017 Lexus IS are achieved through precisely calculated revisions to the front and rear suspension and steering systems.
The front double-wishbone suspension incorporates a new forged aluminum lower arm assembly, resulting in a 49 percent increase in rigidity compared to the previous steel component. A new No1 bush, 29 percent more rigid than before, further enhances stiffness. The use of lightweight aluminum allows for increased rigidity without adding weight. These enhancements contribute to a noticeable improvement in steering response, particularly at cruising speeds. The front suspension system also features a new upper support bush, revised coil spring rate for improved roll control, new shock absorber components, and refined damper settings, all working in concert to enhance yaw response.
Image alt text: 2017 Lexus IS suspension diagram highlighting new lightweight aluminum components, revised coil springs and shock absorbers, illustrating the engineering enhancements for improved handling and ride comfort.
The rear multi-link suspension also benefits from a new No1 bush for the upper arm, a new stabilizer bar, new shock absorber components, and revised damper settings. These changes to the shock absorbers ensure effective damping force even at very low vehicle speeds, contributing to enhanced stability and ride comfort across a wider range of driving conditions.
The electric power steering ECU settings have been reassessed and revised to achieve more precise steering control and feedback. As a result of these comprehensive measures, both the standard and F SPORT versions of the 2017 Lexus IS exhibit improved ride quality, enhanced body control, increased rear wheel traction, and greater straight-line stability, alongside more responsive steering and improved feedback.
Before implementation, these dynamic changes underwent rigorous assessment through extensive on-road and test track evaluations to fine-tune the final settings and ensure optimal performance from the integrated package of dynamic improvements.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
Lexus’ unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system is standard on all 2017 Lexus IS models. VDIM enhances vehicle performance, traction control, and stability by integrating data from sensors throughout the vehicle to coordinate the operation of ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC), and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with the electric power steering (EPS).
This holistic integration of vehicle dynamics, encompassing motor torque, braking, and steering, allows VDIM to optimize not only the activation of safety systems but also to further enhance the vehicle’s kinetic performance. VDIM operates proactively, intervening before the vehicle reaches its dynamic limits. This expands the dynamic envelope of the 2017 Lexus IS and ensures smoother vehicle behavior at the limits of performance, thanks to less intrusive intervention from active safety systems, resulting in a more enjoyable driving experience.
Powertrains: Proven Performance and Efficiency
The 2017 Lexus IS retains its established powertrain options, offering the IS 300h full hybrid and the IS 200t 2.0-liter turbo petrol, catering to diverse customer preferences for efficiency and performance.
Full Hybrid IS 300h
The IS 300h, representing the majority of European IS sales, delivers exceptional smoothness and fuel efficiency while maintaining the engaging driving dynamics that are characteristic of the IS. The full hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a compact, high-output electric motor. Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing, Lexus’ D-4S fuel injection technology, and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system further enhance efficiency and performance.
The powertrain features an electronic continuously variable transmission (E-CVT) with a sequential shift mode, controllable via steering wheel-mounted fingertip paddle controls. Lexus Hybrid Drive engineering delivers low emissions and excellent fuel economy, with official combined cycle figures from just 97g/km CO2 and 4.3 l/100km fuel consumption, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and markets with stringent emissions regulations.
IS 200t Turbo Petrol
The IS 200t is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, twin-scroll turbocharged petrol engine, paired with the smooth-shifting eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission originally developed for the IS F and also featured in the RC F performance coupe. This transmission provides quick and responsive gear changes, enhancing the sporty driving character of the IS 200t.
The engine incorporates innovative technologies including D-4ST direct fuel injection and Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW), enabling the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson cycles by varying the intake valve opening angle. This technology optimizes both power delivery and fuel efficiency. The engine utilizes both direct high-pressure fuel injection into the cylinders and a low-pressure system for injection into the ports. Power output is rated at 245 DIN hp/180 kW at 5,800rpm, with a maximum torque of 350Nm delivered between 1,650 and 4,400rpm.
DRIVE MODE SELECT with New “Customise” Function
The IS Drive Mode Select system offers up to five switchable driving modes, controlled via a rotary dial on the center console: Eco, Normal, Sport, and, for models equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension, Sport S and Sport S+. The 2017 Lexus IS expands the system’s functionality with a new “customised” mode. This allows drivers to individually tailor chassis settings, throttle response, and air conditioning operation to their personal preferences, offering a truly personalized driving experience. Switches located immediately below the rotary control allow engagement of all-electric EV mode (IS 300h hybrid models) and Snow mode.
Class-Leading Safety Technology: Lexus Safety System+
The 2017 Lexus IS benefits from the advanced protection provided by Lexus Safety System+, a comprehensive suite of active safety features designed to prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of driving scenarios. The IS has also achieved a top five-star safety rating in Euro NCAP testing, reflecting its robust passive and active safety measures.
LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM+
Lexus Safety System+ in the 2017 IS includes Pre-Crash System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Automatic High Beam (AHB).
Pre-Crash System (PCS)
The Pre-Crash System (PCS) in the 2017 Lexus IS utilizes a windshield-mounted camera and a front-mounted millimeter-wave radar to scan the road ahead, detecting potential obstacles, including vehicles and pedestrians. The system is effective not only when driving straight but also when cornering. PCS analyzes data from sensors, including vehicle speed, steering angle, and yaw rate, to assess the risk of a rear-end collision with a preceding vehicle. If a high risk is detected, the system triggers a warning buzzer and illuminates a “BRAKE” command in the multi-information display to alert the driver.
Upon brake pedal application, the system initiates Pre-Crash Brake Assist to provide optimal braking force, potentially achieving deceleration of up to 60 km/h to reduce impact severity or even bring the vehicle to a complete stop before impact. If the driver fails to respond to alerts and does not apply the brakes, Pre-Crash Brake will automatically activate to reduce vehicle speed. The Pre-Crash Safety system also incorporates pedestrian detection, activating automatic braking when a pedestrian is detected in front of the IS at speeds between approximately 30 and 80 km/h.
Adaptive Cruise Control
The PCS radar unit also powers the Adaptive Cruise Control system, helping the driver maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Once the road ahead clears, the 2017 Lexus IS smoothly accelerates back to the pre-set cruising speed. The system can operate in two modes: constant speed control (conventional cruise control) or vehicle-to-vehicle distance control. Drivers can select long, medium, or short vehicle-to-vehicle distances based on preference, with settings displayed in the multi-function display.
Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) utilizes a camera mounted behind the rear-view mirror to monitor the vehicle’s position relative to lane markings on the road surface. If LDA detects the vehicle drifting out of its lane without turn indicator activation, it illuminates a warning on the multi-information display and sounds a buzzer alert, prompting the driver to correct the vehicle’s course.
Automatic High Beam (AHB)
Automatic High Beam (AHB) maximizes nighttime visibility by automatically switching between high and low beams. The system detects headlights of oncoming traffic or taillights of vehicles ahead, automatically switching to low beam to avoid dazzling other drivers, then reverting to high beam when the road ahead is clear. This maximizes the use of high beam illumination for improved driver vision at night.
ROAD SIGN ASSIST (RSA)
Road Sign Assist (RSA) uses the windscreen-mounted camera to recognize traffic signs and display relevant information to the driver in the multi-information display. RSA can detect signs compliant with the Vienna Convention, including electroluminescent and flashing signs.
OTHER ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES
Beyond Lexus Safety System+, the 2017 Lexus IS incorporates further advanced systems and controls to enhance safety and vehicle control. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) assist in safe maneuvering, and all IS models are equipped with an Auto Location Tyre Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS). Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) continues to provide integrated control of braking, traction, stability, and steering functions.
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) employs rear-mounted radar to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes, outside the driver’s mirror view. An indicator light illuminates in the corresponding side mirror to alert the driver when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. If the turn indicator is activated while a vehicle is in the blind spot, the warning light flashes.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), utilizing the same radar, warns the driver of approaching vehicles from either side when reversing out of a parking space. RCTA triggers a warning light in the corresponding door mirror and sounds a warning buzzer to alert the driver to potential hazards.
Auto Location Tyre Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS)
Auto Location Tyre Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS) uses individual sensors integrated into each tire’s air valve assembly. This system displays individual tire pressure values for each tire in the driver’s instrument binnacle. When low pressure is detected in a tire, its value is highlighted in amber, providing precise information to the driver compared to conventional systems that only indicate low pressure without specifying the affected tire. AL-TPWS activates upon ignition, enabling drivers to check tire pressures before driving. Maintaining correct tire pressures contributes to both safer driving and optimized fuel economy.
PASSIVE SAFETY
The 2017 Lexus IS achieves exceptional passive safety performance thanks to its strong and rigid body shell, engineered to provide robust occupant protection in various impact scenarios, including frontal, offset, side, and rear collisions. This structural integrity contributed to the IS achieving a top five-star rating in Euro NCAP testing, achieving the highest score in its class at the time of inspection.
All 2017 IS models are equipped with eight airbags as standard: dual-stage front airbags, side and knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and full-length curtain airbags. The front airbags feature variable force operation, deploying with force adjusted to the severity of the impact as measured by sensors.
Pop-up Hood
Lexus prioritizes pedestrian safety with a pop-up hood system in the 2017 IS. This system provides enhanced pedestrian protection while allowing designers to maintain a low and attractive hood line. A sensor in the front bumper detects pedestrian impact, triggering actuators to raise the hood by approximately 70mm. This creates additional space between the hood and engine, allowing the hood to deform and absorb impact energy, reducing potential head injuries. The system is designed to avoid activation in collisions with objects like bollards or street furniture.
LED Headlights
The full LED headlights of the 2017 Lexus IS offer increased light intensity at close range, providing a 10 percent improvement in light intensity 15 meters in front of the car compared to high-intensity discharge headlights. The breadth of illumination is also wider, by one meter to the left and right, compared to HID headlights combined with fog lights. This demonstrates the comprehensive performance of the LED headlights, effectively covering the functions of both headlights and fog lights, enhancing visibility and safety in diverse driving conditions.
History-Making Performance: One Million IS Sales
The Lexus IS achieved a significant milestone in 2016, surpassing one million cumulative global sales since the first generation model’s launch in 1999. This achievement underscores the enduring appeal and success of the IS model line.
Introduced 17 years prior, the Lexus IS was conceived to attract a younger demographic to the brand with a compact, sporty sedan offering sharp styling, a responsive straight-six 2.0-liter engine, and rear-wheel drive. As the third Lexus model launched in Europe, following the LS and GS, the IS successfully established Lexus in a highly competitive segment of the premium car market. Its engaging driving dynamics and sporty profile were complemented by high equipment levels and safety standards.
Lexus’ burgeoning reputation for exceptional quality and customer service further fueled customer interest in the IS, and the range expanded to include the more powerful 3.0-liter IS 300 and, in 2001, the innovative SportCross compact wagon. The original IS paved the way for the second generation model, debuting at the Geneva motor show in 2005. Embracing Lexus’ new L-finesse design philosophy, the second-generation IS showcased more distinctive and sophisticated styling and enhanced refinement. The initial IS 250, featuring a 2.5-liter V6 petrol engine and available with a new automatic transmission, was joined in 2006 by the IS 220d, Lexus’ first diesel-powered model.
In 2007, the Detroit motor show witnessed the unveiling of the IS F, a high-performance sedan “built by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts,” marking the first Lexus to wear the F performance badge, a precursor to the LFA supercar and subsequent RC F and GS F models. Every aspect of the IS F was honed for performance, featuring a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 423 DIN hp and paired with the world’s first eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 270 km/h.
The versatility of the IS was further expanded in 2009 with the introduction of the IS 250C, a stylish coupe-convertible featuring a three-part retracting hard top. The roof mechanism was the fastest in the market, and its design ensured the car looked equally appealing with the roof up or down, while maintaining generous rear passenger space.
The current, third-generation IS marked a new era with the introduction of Lexus Hybrid Drive for the first time. Since its 2013 launch, the IS 300h has become the dominant choice for European customers, accounting for 90 percent of IS sales. The current range also offers the 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine with innovative D-4ST fuel injection technology, balancing responsive torque and fuel efficiency.
The IS remains a core model in Lexus’ global lineup, marketed in over 70 countries and achieving over 6,000 sales monthly. Reaching one million total sales in July 2016 was a significant achievement for a model that was the first Lexus designed primarily for Europe, a region where its popularity endures. Notably, one in five Lexus IS vehicles sold globally are purchased by European customers.
Technical Specifications
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major Dimensions & Vehicle Weights | |||||
| Overall | Length | mm | 4680 | 4680 | |
| Width | Folded Mirrors | mm | 1810 | 1810 | |
| With Mirrors | mm | 2027 | 2027 | ||
| Height | mm | 1430 | 1430 | ||
| Wheelbase | mm | 2800 | 2800 | ||
| Tread | Front | mm | 1535 | 1535 | |
| Rear | mm | 1550/1540 | 1550/1540 | ||
| Seating Capacity | Pers. | 5 | 5 | ||
| Kerb Weight | Total | kg | 1620-1680 | 1590-1680 | |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | kg | 2130 | 2125 | ||
| Trunk Space | L | 450 | 480 | ||
| Coefficient of Drag | Minimum | 0.25 (eco) /0.26 | 0.28 | ||
| Towing Capacity | With Brake | kg | 750 | 1500 | |
| Without Brake | kg | 750 | 750 | ||
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Capacity | L | 66 | 66 | |
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
| Engine | |||||
| No. of Cyls. & Arrangement | 4 cylinders, in-line | 4 cylinders, in-line | |||
| Valve Mechanism | 16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i | 16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i | |||
| Displacement | cm³ | 2494 | 1998 | ||
| Emission Certification | EURO 6 | EURO 6 | |||
| Fuel Type | Petrol 95 or + | Petrol 95 or + | |||
| Max. Output | EEC | kW/rpm (DIN hp/rpm) | 133/6000 (181/6000) | 180/5800 (245/5800) | |
| Max. Torque | EEC | Nm/rpm | 221/4200-5400 | 350/1650-4400 |
| IS 300h | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid System | |||||
| Motor Generator | Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (1KM) | |||
| Max. Voltage | V | 650 | |||
| Max. Output | kW (DIN hp) | 105 (143) | |||
| Max. Torque | Nm | 300 | |||
| Hybrid Battery | Battery Type | NiMH | |||
| Nominal Voltage | V | 230.4 | |||
| Number of Battery Cells | 192 | ||||
| System Voltage | V | 650 | |||
| Total System Output* | kW (DIN hp) | 164 (223) | |||
| * The combined total power of the engine and electric motor (using the battery) (internal measure) | |||||
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
| Performance | |||||
| Max. Speed* | km/h | 200 | 230 | ||
| Acceleration* | 0 to 100 km/h | sec. | 8.3 | 7.0 | |
| * In-house measured figures |
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chassis | |||||
| Transmission | Type | E-CVT | Automatic | ||
| Driven Wheels | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | |||
| Brake Type | Front | Ventilated discs | Ventilated discs | ||
| Rear | Ventilated discs | Ventilated discs | |||
| Lock to Lock | 2.841 | 2.841 | |||
| Min. Turning Radius | Tyre | m | 5.2 | 5.2 | |
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
| Fuel Consumption & Emissions | |||||
| Fuel Consumption | Combined | L/100km | From 4.3 | From 7.0 | |
| CO2 Emissions | Combined | g/km | From 97 |
