The sleek and sporty-looking Lexus IS 300 has been updated with some subtle exterior changes, including new head and tail lamps that endow it with an even sharper disposition. Additionally, the aggressive F Sport grille and twin trapezoidal exhaust tips accentuates the car's athletic demeanour.

Inside, the cabin boasts high levels of comfort, refinement and quality, customary for the Japanese brand. The infotainment screen has also been enlarged to 10.3-inches, while a new drive mode has also been added to the Drive Mode Select system. Where the IS 300 stands out over its peers is in the attention to detail inside the cabin - from the stitching to the way the buttons click, you can feel the meticulous work that has been done to deliver that sense of quality and craftsmanship.

Where the Lexus IS 300 most impresses is the way it drives. As you'd expect from a Lexus, it is supremely capable in delivering a serene and comfortable ride. The ride is firm but forgiving, allowing you to cruise along in comfort. However, when you put your foot down, you're not disappointed either. The turbocharged 2.0-litre engine kicks out 241bhp and 350Nm of torque, sent to the rear wheels in a smooth and surprisingly linear manner.

Coupled with a quick-shifting eight-speed gearbox and an accurate steering rack, this allows you to push the car into corners much harder than you'd expect. Planted and well-balanced through corners, the IS 300 is also capable of delivering generous amounts of fun when you demand it.

In a segment that tends towards sensible, practical but slightly bland cars, the Lexus IS 300 stands out by focusing on delivering an emotional experience - a combination of its bold exterior design, high-quality cabin and dynamic drive.