Writing yet another chapter in the book of compact luxury sports sedans, the new 2021 Lexus IS was unveiled via a unique and engaging online virtual reveal.

The new 2021 IS looks to expand upon the legacy it has carved out in the compact luxury sports car segment over the previous two decades and will be available for sale in approximately 40 countries around the world, including the U.S.A, Japan, and other countries in Asia.

Since Lexus was launched, the tactile feel, behaviour, and execution for each model has been driven by the vision and efforts of the Chief Engineer. By establishing a uniform Lexus Driving Signature across the entire lineup, the hope is to continue propelling the brand's evolution and reinforce its identity in the luxury space.

This cultural shift within Lexus product development builds on the learnings and improvements seen on the F brand cars, and the latest models of the flagship vehicles - the LC, LS and LX, that involve an 'Always On' philosophy for continual, running enhancement.

The 'relentless pursuit of perfection' has always been a guiding philosophy for the brand, but also at stake is the mission to create a uniform Lexus Driving Signature, and that objective begins with the new IS.

For the first time, the new IS will be available with larger 19-inch wheels to improve cornering force and provide a greater contact patch with the road. Engineers revised the suspension layout and front pickup points to help accommodate the larger tyre-and-wheel package.

Overall, two different 19-inch wheels are available on F Sport models, including a unique BBS wheel specific to the F Sports equipped with the Dynamic Handling Package. Standard 18-inch wheels will replace the outgoing 17-inch wheels on all other models.

The IS F Sport lineup is restructured in the 2021 model year, as F Sport variants will only be offered on the IS350 powered by the 307bhp 3.5-litre V6 engine. The F Sport variant features a host of visual and performance cues that immediately set it apart, including a unique front bumper with functional aerodynamic enhancements, rear bumper, grille surround, rear lip spoiler, rocker molding and more. Along with F Sport 19-inch wheels, a unique centre cap and larger rear tires for added performance, the car is also equipped with a cool air intake with sound generator and an F Sport exhaust and diffuser. In addition, unique F Sport badges adorn the sides and rear of the vehicle as well.

The 2021 IS will be available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, and there are three distinct powertrain options available.

The RWD IS300 features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 238bhp and 350Nm of torque. It comes equipped with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission. It integrates an advanced G-force Artificial Intelligence system that monitors multiple performance parameters to determine the optimum gear selection.

For added traction in cold-weather climates, the IS300 AWD is also available, powered by a 3.5-litre V6 that delivers 256bhp and 320Nm or torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. On dry roads it maintains a 30:70 front-to-rear torque split for maximum performance, but it's capable of sending as much as 50% to the front wheels. For buyers who crave maximum power, there's the IS350 in either RWD or AWD powered by a 3.5-litre V6 that produces 307bhp and 380Nm of peak torque, with a zero to 100km/h time of 5.6 seconds for the RWD model and 5.7 seconds for the AWD model. 

The interior features standard NuLuxe-trimmed seating, a dual-zone automatic climate control system with touch-sensitive controls, an available power moonroof, and SmartAccess with push button start.

The IS features a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen nearly 76mm closer to the driver for easy access to the controls. An expansive new 10.3-inch touchscreen is available on vehicles equipped with navigation or Mark Levinson with navigation. The new multimedia system features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration.

The standard Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) found on the new IS receives additions for 2021 in the form of the new LSS+ 2.5. A number of key features that are part of the Lexus Safety System+ have been enhanced, along with the addition of a few key features, such as the Pre-Collision System, which include Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection and Bicyclist Detection, and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Additional LSS+ 2.5 features include Intelligent High Beams and Road Sign Assist. Standard Rear Cross Traffic Alert can offer added peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side while backing out with a visual and audible warning.