Lexus Launches IS 250, 300h and IS 350 Sedans In Australia

BY Editor

Lexus Launches IS 250, 300h and IS 350 Sedans In Australia – Jul 09, 2013– Melbourne, Australia  (Techreleased) – Lexus has launched the third generation of the highly successful IS 250 and IS 350 sedans in Australia with its largest model line-up, including F Sport variants across the range and an all-new IS 300h hybrid model.

IS 250, 300h and IS 350 Sedans

The rear-wheel drive IS models feature a new longer, wider platform with a 60/40 rear-fold split seat, innovative on-board features and a more rigid body thanks to new construction techniques.

F Sport models will leverage the more rigid platform to offer enhanced driving dynamics, with unique steering and chassis tune via an adaptive variable suspension system teamed to the new drive mode select feature.

F Sport models are differentiated by a bespoke interior and exterior styling package, including front and rear bumpers, side skirts, grille, wheels and badging.

All new IS models will feature segment-rivalling levels of standard equipment, including new-to-IS pop-up hood, drive mode select, Lexus Remote Touch, tyre pressure warning sensors, eight airbags, satellite navigation^{^}, reversing camera, smart entry and start, and heated and ventilated front seats.

All vehicles benefit from an increase in length of 75mm, with the bulk of that increase delivered in segment-leading rear-seat legroom and greater boot space.

Making its debut in Australia will be the all-new Lexus Enform telematics system^# (available from the fourth quarter of 2013) that provides a range of connected services to IS owners, including:

• Enform Concierge: A quick dial service to Lexus Customer Care centre, Drive Care, Lexus Dealers and Destination Assist.
• Destination Download: Following a call to Lexus Concierge, IS owners can download destinations to their vehicle for use and guidance.
• Fuel Finder: Allows customers to find and compare their nearest service station for fuel price and availability of premium fuels.
• Local Search: Provides an internet-based search for local businesses and services.
• Weather: Live search of current and forecast weather conditions for any chosen location.

The technologically advanced new IS models are further complemented by a completely redesigned interior and exterior – the latter featuring Lexus’ trademark spindle grille.

The new IS models will feature the IS 250 and IS 350, the latter receiving an all-new eight-speed transmission, alongside the all-new IS 300h hybrid model.

Each engine is paired with a unique transmission to ensure optimal use and delivery of power and torque.

IS 250 models will feature a 2.5-litre all-alloy V6 developing 153kW and 252Nm of torque, with that power delivered via a six-speed sequential transmission with throttle blipping and fast shift capabilities.

IS 350 models will offer a 233kW, 378Nm all-alloy 3.5-litre V6 powerplant matched to a new eight-speed transmission.

Derived from the IS F performance sedan, the driveability of the IS 350 now benefits from a wider spread of gears and the addition of IS F-style shift logic with quick shift and throttle blipping.

The IS 300h’s 2.5-litre, four cylinder petrol-electric hybrid powerplant develops a combined power output of 164kW – yet consumes just 4.9-litres^* of fuel per 100km while emitting just 113g of CO₂ per kilometre^*.

The new hybrid powerplant is mated to a purpose-built, electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT), offering six-step shift logic and paddle shift.

Dubbed ‘shift-matic’, the new transmission reacts more quickly to driver inputs and road conditions to offer greater response and control.

The all-new IS models will be available from mid-July 2013.