Lexus redefines compact sports sedan with the new IS

Borneo Motors Singapore has unveiled the Lexus IS sedan on local shores amidst much anticipation.

The new compact sedan has grown 75mm in length to 4,660mm, is 10mm wider and has a wheelbase that's 70mm longer. The IS is also the latest model to receive the signature spindle grille. The result is a sportier and edgier-looking model, which seeks to take the brand's emotional appeal to the next level. 

Under the new IS' sheet metal lies the marque's cutting edge technologies. The IS is the second model in the Lexus lineup to utilise laser welding and adhesive bonding techniques, which give rise to improved chassis rigidity. This in turn enhances the driving dynamics of the car, without losing on comfort. 

The new IS is also 10kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the use of aluminium in various locations, such as the bonnet. The new IS also sports an all new suspension and redesigned brakes for better road handling. 

Safety, too, is of paramount importance in the IS. The new compact sedan sports an array of active and passive safety systems. Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) works like a central command centre, integrating the vehicles's Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Electronic Power Steering (EPS). More notably, while conventional systems set in only when a vehicle's dynamic limit has been reached, the VDIM begins to activate part of the controls with a less obtrusive intervention.

Making the debut in Lexus cars is the Pop-Up Hood (PUH) - a pedestrian protection system which raises the hood by 70mm to maximise the allowance between the hood and engine, and allow the hood to deform and absorb the impact of a pedestrian's head on the vehicle.

Coinciding with the first IS Hybrid is the debut of F Sport trim for the compact sedan. To further enhance driving pleasure, the IS Hybrid utilises Active Sound Control (ASC) - a system which generates electronic engine sound from a standalone speaker.

In the IS250 F Sport, an Intake Sound Generator takes up the task of creating a more sporting engine note by amplifying the vibration of the intake pulse and introducing it into the cabin.  

At launch, two variants of the IS will be initially offered - IS250 with a 2.5-litre V6, capable of punching out 208bhp; and a IS Hybrid with a 2.5-litre in-line four powerplant, which together with the hybrid drivetrain, pumps out a total of 223bhp. Each of these variants will be available in three trim levels - Standard, Luxury and F Sport. 

Prices for the new IS start at $237,000 for the IS250 and $241,000 for the IS300h, inclusive of COE and three years/100,000km Manufacturer's Warranty (whichever comes first).