The debut of the new Lexus IS at the Beijing Motor Show

At the 2016 Beijing Motor Show, Lexus has taken the covers off its facelifted IS sedan, armed with a fresh new look and a number of important changes, building on the styling direction, exciting performance and innovative technology that characterised the completely new Lexus IS introduced in 2013. 

Lexus has kept the essence of the car's exterior appearance intact, but the entire front fascia has undergone a transformation, highlighted by new headlamps, large air intakes in the front bumper and an evolution of Lexus' spindle grille.

The bumpers, with incorporated air intakes, flow dynamically from the fenders, giving the new front end a high level of aggressiveness. The new grille folds back at a higher point, changing its top and bottom proportions that enhance its sporty feel with a visually lower center of gravity, while blending effortlessly into the reshaped hood. The F Sport's grille features an exclusive three-dimentional F-mesh pattern, with jet-black metallic coating that incorporates functional brake ducts. 

Adding to the IS' dynamic flair are standard 10-spoke 17-inch wheels. Changes to the rear are highlighted by more pronounced 'L'-shaped LED light guides that are now triple layered within the tail light housing, and new rectangular chrome exhaust tips that accentuate the car's sporting nature.

Thoughtful improvements have also been incorporated into the new IS' cabin. The multimedia display screen has grown from 7.0-inches to 10.3-inches. The new high-resolution monitor offers a larger and clearer image of the various functions on the multimedia system. 'Enter' buttons have also been added to the sides of the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) on the centre console, making the system easier to use. On the central dash, the audio and ventilation control panel has been refined to fit completely within the knee bolsters, with a new hairline-finish surface that provides both a high-quality feel and improved appearance. Other changes to the new IS include new cup holders, a new larger leather-wrapped palm rest with stitching for the RTI and new markings on the in-dash analog clock.

The new IS model lineup will remain unchanged with three engine offerings. The rear-wheel drive IS 200t will be powered by the recently-added 241bhp 2.0-litre twin-scroll turbocharged inline-four engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. 

Safety equipment on the new IS has been upgraded with the Lexus Safety System+. It combines Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam and Radar Cruise Control.