2014 Lexus IS has arrived on the automotive canvas. The new car is completely redesigned and features one of the largest spindle grille ever, particularly on the F Sport variant, and it’s a bit too bold for our liking. The new grille on the IS 250, IS 350 and IS 300h is more digestible though.
Overall, the car looks dynamic with wide, flared wheel arches and clean character lines running along its side merging into both ends of the car. LEDs are the way to go when it comes to lights and Lexus has towed the rope. Both front and rear lights add to the bold personality of the car.
On the inside, the LFA inspired cockpit features the refinement and quality you’d expect of a Lexus. With a longer wheelbase, rear seat legroom has been increased nearly three inches.
And, for the first time, the 2013 Lexus IS will feature 60:40 split folding rear seats further enhancing the flexibility and cargo capacity of the new, larger trunk.
As you might expect, this car is loaded with new technology. The meter cluster is all LFA. New electrostatic switch technology allows the climate control system to be adjusted with a simple slide of the finger.
Lexus claims to have improved the driving dynamics of the new IS. The IS 350 F SPORT is powered by a 300 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 that is mated to the same 8-speed transmission as in the IS-F high performance sedan. Four different drive modes are offered – Eco, Comfort, Performance and Handling.
For 2014, the Lexus IS will feature a hybrid powertrain for the first time ever on an IS. The IS 300h will initially be sold in Japan, followed by other markets around the world. Expect to see this variant in Middle East as well. The IS 300h packs in a powerful electric motor with a newly developed 2.5 liter, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine featuring a new D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-I and a high-efficiency Exhaust Gas Recirculation system.
In addition to the F Sport and hybrid versions, IS 250 and IS 350 variants will also be offered. The all-new 2014 Lexus IS will go on sale in June. No word on price of the new car has been put out as yet.
