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2007 Lexus IS 250/IS350

Lexus IS 250/350 Luxury Sport Sedans Offer New 'X Package' for 2007

2007 Lexus IS 250/IS350
In their second year on the market, the next-generation Lexus IS 250/350 luxury sport sedans ratchet up both handling performance and comfort with reconfigured standard equipment, option packages, and the ability to disengage the stability and traction control systems. The V6-powered Lexus IS models, which debuted in 2006, combine striking styling with one of the most compelling packages of performance, luxury, and safety in this highly competitive segment.2007 Lexus IS 250/IS350
The 2007 IS line again offers three models, each powered by a new-generation, high-output V6 engine. The rear-wheel-drive IS 350 leads the segment with a 306-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 and can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The IS 250 is powered by a 204-horsepower 2.5-liter version of the new V6 and is available as a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive model.

2007 Lexus IS 250/IS350
New for 2007, the 'X Package' option for the IS rear-wheel-drive models combines sport suspension and five-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels with a boldly styled front-lip spoiler, sport pedals, and illuminated door scuff plates. A new Premium Package has been made standard for the all-wheel drive IS 250 and optional for the rear-wheel-drive models and includes perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats. The comprehensive 'Sport' and 'Luxury' option packages share much of their content, with the Sport Package also including sport suspension.


2007 Lexus IS 250/IS350'Lexus alone offers a unique choice in the entry-luxury segment, with the rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive IS models emphasizing the sportier side and the front-wheel drive ES 350 focusing on ultimate comfort,' said Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter. 'The ES and IS models, of course, deliver the expected Lexus dedication to quality, along with true luxury that enhances the driving experience rather than distracting from it.'

True to Lexus tradition, the IS 250/350 models have been rewarding customers with exemplary quality. Most recently, the IS was named Highest-Ranked Entry Premium Car in the in the 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality StudySM.

Dynamic Appeal
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS, while establishing their own distinctively upscale, sporty presence. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the IS an athletic 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). Close attention to underbody-airflow management reduces drag and also helps minimize and balance front and rear lift to enhance high-speed stability and handling.


While the sound of powerful V6 engines will resonate with driving enthusiasts, all vehicle occupants will appreciate Lexus' ability to keep undesirable noises to a minimum. 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. The attention paid to reducing aerodynamic drag is also evident in the A-pillar and outside rearview mirror designs, which lower wind noise from a notoriously difficult area. No detail has been overlooked, down to sound-absorbing sun visors.

High-Technology Safety and Luxury
In addition to their performance-oriented powertrains, the IS models bring a wide array of standard and available features designed to convey the true Lexus feel throughout. Lexus' focus on safety for the IS models includes standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) for the IS 250. The IS 350 is exclusively equipped with a sport-oriented version of the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, an advanced technology that integrates all of the car's dynamic-control systems. All IS models feature eight standard airbags, and the IS was the first car in its segment to offer an optional pre-collision system that can help reduce collision damage.

The Lexus IS also offers premium, high-technology options more often associated with prestige-luxury models, such as Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS); heated and ventilated front seats; a power-tilt-telescope steering wheel and – exclusive to Lexus – a 14-speaker Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio System.

Powerful V6 Engine Family
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 version delivers a best-in-class 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM along with 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 RPM. Both of these V6 engines use aluminum cylinder blocks and heads and employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. A dual-exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds, and a variable-valve system in the mufflers helps reduce noise at lower speeds.

2007 Lexus IS 250/IS350
A direct-type fuel-injection system provides a cooling effect in the cylinders, enabling the high compression needed to extract maximum energy from the fuel. (concept carz) Both engines benefit as well from reduced internal friction via chain-driven camshafts and roller-rocker arms. Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 differs chiefly in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, increasing power and efficiency.

An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS 350, IS 250 and the all-wheel drive model. The rear-wheel drive IS 250 comes standard with a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.

The high technology also pays dividends in fuel economy, with the IS 350 returning an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway. The IS 250 has an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway with the six-speed automatic transmission, 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway for the six-speed manual, and the IS 250 AWD model attains 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway. All 2007 Lexus IS models carry the Últra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ÚLEV II) certification.

Sophisticated Dynamics Match High Power
The Lexus IS was engineered from the tires up for a sporty driving experience. The double-wishbone front suspension features a high-mount upper control arm, and the lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness. The multilink rear suspension emphasizes precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the IS sport sedans ultra-stable for confident driving. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components reduce unsprung weight, helping the IS remain stable on bumpy surfaces and improving ride comfort.

Monotube shock absorbers employ larger pistons than conventional twin-tube shocks to provide superior damping-force response and control, especially at low piston speeds. The sophisticated shock-absorber design utilizes multileaf linear control valves to help improve damping force, plus rebound springs that offer improved body control without the typical ride comfort tradeoffs. Available sport suspension with 18-inch wheels further enhances handling response.

In the IS 250, VSC helps to control loss of lateral traction while cornering by using throttle intervention and applying individual wheel braking to help control any discrepancy between where the driver is steering and where the vehicle is heading. The IS 350 is exclusively equipped with Lexus' innovative VDIM system to provide superior handling dynamics and traction control.

The IS 350's sport-tuned version of VDIM allows a higher intervention threshold for more spirited driving. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking and throttle control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). New for 2007, the IS models includes the ability to disengage VSC or VDIM via the Trac off switch, which can be useful in certain handling situations or when trying to extricate the car from snow, for example.

Advanced Steering, Powerful Brakes
The Electric Power Steering (EPS) rack and pinion steering gear helps to provide linear steering response, precise control and better straight-line stability. In addition, the vehicle-speed-sensitive system helps offer more precise control of steering assist than a traditional hydraulic system can, eliminates parasitic loss from a hydraulic pump, and reduces weight and complexity.

The Lexus IS braking systems are commensurate with their performance capability. A variable ratio link-type pedal and tierod-type booster enhance brake-pedal rigidity and system response. The IS 250 features ventilated front and solid rear rotors; the IS 350 steps up to larger ventilated front and rear rotors. In addition, the IS 350's aluminum four-piston front calipers aid in heat dissipation and stopping power and reduce unsprung weight.

Standard all-season performance tires measure 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on AWD). Available as a stand-alone option or as part of the sport suspension, performance-tread ('summer') 225/40R18 front tires and 255/40R18 rear tires reward the enthusiast driver with even higher cornering grip.

Comfort Through Últimate Convenience
The brand's traditional attention to comfort and convenience is abundantly present in the overtly sporty IS. The luxurious and muscular cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron® gauges and smartly integrated metallic or available Bird's-eye Maple trim help create an elegant yet active environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail strongly convey the Lexus identity.

Standard amenities include 10-way power front seats; dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and pollen filter (plus smog filter on IS 350); power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings; manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel; all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

Lexus offers a refreshing approach to designing controls as compared to some competitors that are making controls more complex to learn and distracting to use. One example is the multi-information display located in the speedometer. This versatile feature integrates a trip computer that provides: outside temperature; driving range; average fuel consumption; average fuel consumption since refueling (per tank); current fuel consumption; and average speed. The display also includes an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location.

Additional features are added to the multi-information display depending on selected options. When an IS model is equipped with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, the display can show a car icon with the selected following distance; when equipped with Intuitive Park Assist, the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers. A multi-function switch allows the driver to set an adjustable speed warning and an adjustable-RPM shift light in the tachometer.

The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. The standard HomeLink® programmable garage door opener also operates home security devices and other systems.

The Security of a Lexus
Passive-safety technology in the Lexus IS begins with a reinforced passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants with front-and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats. In addition to the dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, as well as a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger.

Advanced dual-stage front airbags are designed to deploy at one of two speeds, according to impact force. The driver's front airbag also includes an extra low stage designed to deploy based, in part, on the seat's position on its track. The front passenger's airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to disperse the force of the bag.

First introduced on the previous-generation LS flagship model, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision damage and is now available on all Lexus sedan model lines. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and maintain a set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. PCS relies on the radar sensor to detect obstacles in front of the car, and a PCS computer with sensor inputs from vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate is designed to determine whether a collision is unavoidable.

In such a situation, PCS preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.

Increased Visibility
Visibility plays a major role in the Lexus safety portfolio. The available High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) helps to illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. The rear back-up camera, included with 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 optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any IS model is also equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system's seven-inch touch screen display.

The Sound of Luxury
The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc in-dash CD changer, 194 watts of total power and 13 speakers. Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds. A convenient mini-jack in the center console enables connection of an iPod® or other digital music player.

Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio System that is available in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 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 vehicle is parked.

Premium Protection
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with 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

Lexus Continues Personalized Settings for 2007 Model Line

All Lexus models for 2007 will continue to offer the complimentary Personalized Settings service that was launched across the model line for 2005. Depending on the Lexus model, the Lexus dealer can make up to 16 different adjustments to the electric and electronic systems on the vehicle. Settings that can be customized according to personal preference include interior lighting, window and moonroof operation, tilt steering wheel position and door lock control.

'Customer preference continues to be a top priority for Lexus,' said Bob Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager. 'With Lexus Personalized Settings, we give our customer additional choices on how to set a vehicle's various convenience features according to personal preference.'

At the time of purchase or lease, the Lexus customer is presented with a pamphlet describing all the possible settings that the dealer can adjust on the selected model. Examples include choices for how the power windows, moonroof and door locks operate with the remote key, and how the tilt and telescoping steering wheel responds when the engine is turned on or off.


2007 Lexus IS 250/IS350In most Lexus vehicles, the tilt and telescoping steering wheel is set to move up and away from the driver when the transmission shift lever is placed in park and the ignition is turned off. This popular feature is offered to help the driver to move in and out of the vehicle with ease, but it can also be turned off by changing the setting so the steering wheel remains stationary.

The Personalized Settings feature offers several options for operating the power door locks and windows with the remote key. The standard unlock mode for most 2006 models unlocks all doors by pressing the ÚNLOCK button once on the remote. The customer can choose to have this setting changed so only the driver side door unlocks after pressing the ÚNLOCK button once, and then unlocking the rest of the doors by pressing the button a second time.

In the standard mode, all the power windows will roll down and the moonroof (if equipped) will slide open when the customer presses the ÚNLOCK button for 2.5 seconds with all doors unlocked. The customer can also elect to turn off this feature. The moonroof operation from the remote key can also be set to open when the ÚNLOCK button is pressed for 2.5 seconds and to tilt or slide according to the customer's preference.


Lexus Personalized Settings also allow lighting systems to be adjusted for added convenience. Cabin illumination can be adjusted to stay on for 7.5, 15 or 30 seconds after a door is closed. The length of time the headlights stay on once the ignition is shut off (with all doors closed and headlights in the ON or AÚTO position) can be set at 30, 60 or 90 seconds. The customer may also choose to have the headlamps turn off as soon as the ignition is shut off and the driver's door is opened. In addition, the sensitivity of the automatic headlights can be adjusted to turn on under darker or lighter ambient light conditions.

On the RX 350 and RX 400h luxury utility vehicles, the customer can select different settings for how the power rear liftgate operates. For example, the standard setting for opening the rear power door is to unlock all doors first. If the customer prefers, this can be changed to allow the rear door to open without unlocking all the doors. In addition, settings can be adjusted for the back door buzzer's sound volume and number of beeps.

All programming of Lexus Personalized Settings must be completed by a Lexus Dealer and requires a special tool. The complimentary service is a one-time service available for up to 12 months from the date of purchase or lease of a new Lexus vehicle. Additional adjustments to Personalized Settings after the initial 12-month period can be made for an additional charge.

Source - Lexus

Related Reading : Lexus IS History

Toyotas 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....
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