 2011 IS 250 | 2011 IS 350 | 2011 IS 250C | 2011 IS 350C | 2011 IS 350C VIP Auto Salon | 2013 IS C  |
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Image credits: © Lexus.
MSRP: $33,595-61,300
Invoice: $30,235-55,175
2012 Lexus IS news, pictures, and information | ||
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Lexus IS Sport Sedan Line Features AWD and RWD Models
•Standard Leather-Trimmed 10-Way Power Front Seats•Available 3.5L V6 Offers 306 Horsepower
•Available F Sport Package Offers Exclusive Úpgrades for IS 250/350 Rear-Wheel Drive Models
Complete wîth AWD and RWD models, two powerful engine choices, and a stylish package wîth 17-inch standard wheels, the Lexus IS sport sedan continues to be a favorite among customers. The IS moves into the 2012 model year virtually unchanged after receiving numerous changes last year including revised front and rear styling, minor interior updates, an IS 350 all-wheel drive (AWD) model, and an F Sport Package for the IS 250/350 rear-wheel drive (RWD). The IS sedan models receive a revised color palette as Nebula Gray Pearl replaces Smoky Granite Mica and Fire Agate Pearl replaces Glacier Frost Mica.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350's 3.5-liter V6 offers a more potent 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350 RWD model can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. Both engines employ dual Variable Valve Timing wîth intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 also differs in that it augments the direct fuel injection wîth port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, optimizing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds.An advanced six-speed automatic transmission wîth §teering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS 350 models and the IS 250 AWD. The IS 250 RWD comes standard wîth a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, wîth the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS models provide a sporty driving experience while also offering a supple, quiet ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension use high-strength steel and aluminum components to reduce unsprung weight. Sophisticated monotube shock-absorbers integrate multi-leaf linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort.
The all-wheel-drive system available for the IS 250 and IS 350 provides extra traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as §teering and throttle angle from driver activity combined wîth vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
 | Vital Stats |
| Engine : 2.5 L., 6-cylinder Power: 204 hp Torque: 185 ft-lbs Engine : 3.5 L., 6-cylinder Power: 306 hp Torque: 277 ft-lbs | |
6-speed Manual, 6-speed Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable | |
The IS 350's brake system is equipped wîth larger ventilated front and rear rotors and aluminum four-piston front calipers. Standard all-season performance tires are 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 and IS 350 AWD). Eighteen-inch wheels are available.Safety/Security Features
A reinforced passenger compartment helps protect the occupants wîth front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats. In addition to the advanced dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the IS includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide overall occupant protection.
The IS 250 offers optional High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps wîth LED daytime running lamps. IS 350 models feature standard HID headlamps wîth LED daytime running lamps and headlamp washers. The rear back-up camera, included wîth the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse gear. The exterior mirrors integrate turn signals.
The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, helping to alert the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any IS model is also equipped wîth the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system's seven-inch touch screen display.Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
The Lexus IS models include a standard leather-trimmed interior wîth 10-way power front seats; some competitive vehicles make a leather-trim interior optional. The numerous standard amenities in the IS models also include dual-zone automatic climate control wîth rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on IS 350), power moonroof wîth one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping §teering wheel, all power windows wîth automatic up/down feature and jam protection, HomeLink® and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. In addition, the AWD models feature standard heated seats. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 194 watts (max.) total power, 13 speakers, iPod®/ÚSB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming and an integrated satellite radio receiver. The Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.Luxury Options
The F Sport Package available for the IS 250/350 RWD takes inspiration from the IS F ultra-performance sedan, combining special suspension and §teering tuning and 18-inch alloy wheels wîth a dark super-chrome finish. Giving the IS 250/350 F Sport Package model a sporty demeanor are a front lip spoiler, rear deck spoiler and dark-chrome front grille insert. Últrasonic Blue exterior color is available in conjunction wîth the F Sport Package.
Inside, special F Sport heated front seats feature a microfiber insert and leather side bolsters to provide more grip for the driver and passenger during cornering. The package also adds F Sport badging to the §teering wheel, shift knob and doorsill scuff plates.
An optional Luxury Plus Package includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats, plus three-position memory for Driver's seat, §teering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic §teering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available in conjunction wîth the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback wîth 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system's color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
The Lexus IS also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® wîth Safety Connect®, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped wîth these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform wîth Safety Connect is on vehicles equipped wîth the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.
Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative SiriusXM services including NavTraffic, NavWeather, Sports, and Stocks. SiriusXM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions and require separate audio and data subscriptions.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans have their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled wîth tightly drawn bodywork, give the IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and 'air kick' tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there.
Interior Design
The IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim, contribute to an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
The multi-information display located within the speedometer integrates a trip computer and an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location. When equipped wîth the available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon wîth the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.
F Sport Performance Accessories
Lexus offers a selection of F Sport Performance Accessories for the IS models, including performance-enhancing parts such as 19-inch forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust system and more. F Sport Performance Accessories by Lexus Ú.S.A. are engineered by Toyota Racing Development (TRD). When installed by an authorized dealer, the accessories are covered by warranty for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.
Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come wîth a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty wîth roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage.Source - Lexus
Toyota's luxury division unveiled its newest sport-luxury compact sedan in 2001, the Lexus IS 300. Sharing its engine with the larger GS 300, the IS was built with rear-wheel drive and carried a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that achieved 215 horsepower. The engine operated with VVT-i. During its first season, only a five-speed automatic transmission was offered, but it did incorporate Formula One-inspired E-Shift gear selection on the steering wheel. The wedge-shaped IS body had a semi-fastback roofline and was sharp-edged in design. It was called a ‘condensed high performance stance' by Lexus. A choice of either 16 or 17 inch wheels could be mounted on the IS 300 and front side airbags were installed along with antilock braking and traction control. Available on the vehicle was a limited-slip differential. Inspired by sport watched, a chronograph-style instrument panel was installed in the vehicle. The IS 300 was originally designed for the European market, and is promised to give ‘compelling challenge' to European sport sedans.
Though smaller than the BMW, the Lexus IS300 carried a fairly tight rear seat, though it had a high level of comfort. In Japan the Lexus IS300 was sold as the Toyota Altezza. Introduced in 1999, the IS 300 went on sale in June of 2000. Shortly afterward it appeared as the CART Championship pace car. Along with the IS 300 SportCross, a five-speed manual-transmission version was debuted. The sedan and the little-known SportCross was somewhat publicized by two racing entries in the 2001 Grand-Am Cup North American Street Stock Series. Competitive immediately, the IS scored its first pole position in its fourth race and first race win in the fifth round at Virginia internatiojnal Raceway.
In March of 2003 the IS SportDesign was introduced, basically a cosmetic package equipped with a special grille, tailpipe along with other touches. Sharing its in-line six-cylinder engine with the Supra, the Lexus IS 300 came with rear-wheel drive and an interior that was more sport than luxury. 215 horsepower was produced with the six along with 218 lb-ft of torque that used variable valve timing to broaden its torque curve. The IS 300 also had a two-stage induction system along with a two-way bymass muffler that enhanced breathing and lower noise. Excellent handling was provided by a double wishbone suspension.
When desired, the SportCross and the automatic transmission sedan featured E-Shift steering wheel-mounted shift buttons for finger-tip control over gear shifts. Basically a wagon/crossover version with the same dimensions as the sedan, the IS 300 featured a rear tailgate, a split fold-down rear seatback and fold-down front passenger seatbacks that allowed it to carry either long or odd-shaped items. A rear power outlet and a seatback table were also located in the folding passenger seat.
Wind noise was lowered due to a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, while the interior was quieted with sound-dampening asphalt sheets in the roof. Optional on sedans was a real spoiler, while the SportCross featured a unique spoiler as standard equipment. The IS300 had drill drilled aluminum pedals with rubber pads, supportive height-adjustable seats and stainless steel doorsill scuff plates. 17-inch wheels, low-profile performance-tread tires, auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, a high-power audio system with both a cassette player and six-disc in-dash CD changer with eight speakers, and High-Intensity Discharge headlights were all standard features.
Optional on the IS300 was eight-way power driver's and passenger seats, heated front seats and a power moonroof. The interior could be outfitted with an optional leather/Alcantara trim package or a full leather-trimmed interior in either ivory or black.
The SportCross offered the Vehicle Stability Control system as an option. This was also optional on the automatic sedan. This feature was helpful in controlling traction while cornering on slippery or dry road surfaces by utilizing throttle intervention. To help limit rear-wheel slip on acceleration the VSC supplements the standard full-range traction control. Brake Assist and Electronic Brake force Distribution was featured on the four-sensor, four-channel anti-lock brake system. To determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, brake assist is designed to figure this out, along with if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS. The system supplements the braking power applied until pedal pressure is released.
Pretensioners and height-adjustable anchors are incorporated on the front seatbelts in the Lexus IS 300 to help avoid the forces to the upper torso in a serious frontal collision. The SRS, Supplemental Restraint Systems included dual front airbags, side curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front seat-mounted side airbags. A personal security feature is the speed-sensitive and shift-linked automatic door lock/unlock system.
An optional feature on the Lexus IS 300 was the Lexus Navigation System which used a DVD for map storage. All on one disc, the DVD contains all of the U.S. and the major cities in Canada. High-speed route calculation, multi-route calculation, route preview, a dual-map screen mode and simplified highway junction graphics are functions of the Navigation System. Deployed from the dashboard, the System is easily hidden when not in use. The remote controls for the system are hidden in the center console between the front seats. A dashboard storage compartment with a spring-loaded retractable lid is featured on models not equipped with the Navigation System.
For 2004 all Lexus IS models added a standard maintenance indicator light along with automatic power door locks. In October of 2005 the second generation of IS models were introduced, the IS250 and the IS350.By Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click hereThough smaller than the BMW, the Lexus IS300 carried a fairly tight rear seat, though it had a high level of comfort. In Japan the Lexus IS300 was sold as the Toyota Altezza. Introduced in 1999, the IS 300 went on sale in June of 2000. Shortly afterward it appeared as the CART Championship pace car. Along with the IS 300 SportCross, a five-speed manual-transmission version was debuted. The sedan and the little-known SportCross was somewhat publicized by two racing entries in the 2001 Grand-Am Cup North American Street Stock Series. Competitive immediately, the IS scored its first pole position in its fourth race and first race win in the fifth round at Virginia internatiojnal Raceway.
In March of 2003 the IS SportDesign was introduced, basically a cosmetic package equipped with a special grille, tailpipe along with other touches. Sharing its in-line six-cylinder engine with the Supra, the Lexus IS 300 came with rear-wheel drive and an interior that was more sport than luxury. 215 horsepower was produced with the six along with 218 lb-ft of torque that used variable valve timing to broaden its torque curve. The IS 300 also had a two-stage induction system along with a two-way bymass muffler that enhanced breathing and lower noise. Excellent handling was provided by a double wishbone suspension.
When desired, the SportCross and the automatic transmission sedan featured E-Shift steering wheel-mounted shift buttons for finger-tip control over gear shifts. Basically a wagon/crossover version with the same dimensions as the sedan, the IS 300 featured a rear tailgate, a split fold-down rear seatback and fold-down front passenger seatbacks that allowed it to carry either long or odd-shaped items. A rear power outlet and a seatback table were also located in the folding passenger seat.
Wind noise was lowered due to a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, while the interior was quieted with sound-dampening asphalt sheets in the roof. Optional on sedans was a real spoiler, while the SportCross featured a unique spoiler as standard equipment. The IS300 had drill drilled aluminum pedals with rubber pads, supportive height-adjustable seats and stainless steel doorsill scuff plates. 17-inch wheels, low-profile performance-tread tires, auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, a high-power audio system with both a cassette player and six-disc in-dash CD changer with eight speakers, and High-Intensity Discharge headlights were all standard features.
Optional on the IS300 was eight-way power driver's and passenger seats, heated front seats and a power moonroof. The interior could be outfitted with an optional leather/Alcantara trim package or a full leather-trimmed interior in either ivory or black.
The SportCross offered the Vehicle Stability Control system as an option. This was also optional on the automatic sedan. This feature was helpful in controlling traction while cornering on slippery or dry road surfaces by utilizing throttle intervention. To help limit rear-wheel slip on acceleration the VSC supplements the standard full-range traction control. Brake Assist and Electronic Brake force Distribution was featured on the four-sensor, four-channel anti-lock brake system. To determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, brake assist is designed to figure this out, along with if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS. The system supplements the braking power applied until pedal pressure is released.
Pretensioners and height-adjustable anchors are incorporated on the front seatbelts in the Lexus IS 300 to help avoid the forces to the upper torso in a serious frontal collision. The SRS, Supplemental Restraint Systems included dual front airbags, side curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front seat-mounted side airbags. A personal security feature is the speed-sensitive and shift-linked automatic door lock/unlock system.
An optional feature on the Lexus IS 300 was the Lexus Navigation System which used a DVD for map storage. All on one disc, the DVD contains all of the U.S. and the major cities in Canada. High-speed route calculation, multi-route calculation, route preview, a dual-map screen mode and simplified highway junction graphics are functions of the Navigation System. Deployed from the dashboard, the System is easily hidden when not in use. The remote controls for the system are hidden in the center console between the front seats. A dashboard storage compartment with a spring-loaded retractable lid is featured on models not equipped with the Navigation System.
For 2004 all Lexus IS models added a standard maintenance indicator light along with automatic power door locks. In October of 2005 the second generation of IS models were introduced, the IS250 and the IS350.By Jessica Donaldson
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2012| Comparable Vehicles | |
| Acura RDX | ($32,895-37,995) |
| Acura TL | ($35,605-45,085) |
| Audi Q5 | ($35,600-43,000) |
| BMW 1 Series | ($30,950-43,800) |
| BMW 3 Series | ($33,150-67,050) |
| BMW 3 Series | ($33,150-67,050) |
| Cadillac CTS | ($35,165-62,165) |
| Cadillac SRX | ($33,250-33,250) |
| Chrysler 300S | : |
| Hyundai Azera | ($32,000-32,000) |
| Hyundai Genesis | ($34,200-46,500) |
| Infiniti EX | ($35,600-39,300) |
| Infiniti G25 Sedan | ($32,400-45,150) |
| Lincoln MKZ | ($34,605-36,495) |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | ($34,800-61,435) |
| Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class | ($35,885-37,885) |
| Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution | : |
| Nissan LEAF | ($35,200-37,250) |
| Nissan Maxima | ($31,750-34,450) |
| Toyota Avalon | ($33,195-36,435) |
| Volvo S60 | ($31,450-37,700) |
| Similar Automakers | |
| Audi | BMW |
| Infiniti | Jaguar |
| Land Rover | Mercedes-Benz |
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| BMW 3 Series |
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| Chevrolet Code 130R Concept |
| Chevrolet Cruze |
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| Lexus: 2011-2020 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Lexus History |
| Other models by Lexus |
| Manufacturer Website |
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| CT 200h ES | GS GX | HS IS | LFA LS | LX RX | SC |
| 2011 IS 250 | 2011 IS 350 | 2011 IS 250C | 2011 IS 350C | 2011 IS 350C VIP Auto Salon | 2013 IS C |
