2013: Review of the all new Lexus IS

• First official images of the new-generation Lexus IS, released ahead of the car’s world debut at the Detroit motor show
• Powerful and elegant exterior references Lexus’s LF-CC concept car
• Clean cabin design with sportier driving position
• Increased wheelbase and width make for more cabin space and greater luggage capacity
• IS F Sport models display differentiated exterior styling and adopt more supportive seats
• Further press information to be released to coincide with IS’s public unveiling on 15 January

The first official pictures of the all-new Lexus IS have been released, revealing powerful and elegant exterior styling and a cabin that is more spacious and driver-focused. Even at first glance it is clear to see how faithful Lexus has remained to the acclaimed LF-CC concept car that trailed its design thinking at last year’s Paris motor show.
The images precede the new model’s world debut at the Detroit motor show in 15 January and its introduction in South Africa later this year.

Exterior design
The new IS is inspired by Lexus’s LF-CC concept and displays its own interpretation of the spindle front grille arrangement that has become a hallmark of all new Lexus models. Overall the impression is of power, elegance and a stronger brand identity.

Viewed in profile, the new IS shows the mass of the cabin concentrated towards the rear, with a rising line flowing from the blower body into the rear lamp clusters, adding further elegance and dynamism.
There is also a new, powerfully articulated headlamp cluster design, with Lexus’s signature L-shaped daytime running lights presented independently below.
Interior design
The cabin design is clean and elegant, with an ergonomically ideal environment created for the driver.
The new IS’s increased width and longer wheelbase allow for significantly more comfort for rear seat passengers and greater luggage capacity, too. The combination of the extended wheelbase and a thinner front seat design delivers best-in-class knee-room and access in the rear. The new rear seats also have a 60:40 split-folding function.
The new-design driver’s seat is more comfortable and provides better lateral support. The seat hip point and the angle of the new steering wheel – inspired by the LFA – are both lower, and the steering wheel’s reach adjustment has been increased, giving a more sporting driving position.
The refinement of the cabin materials, trims and finishes is complimented by advances in technology and the introduction of a high-quality analogue clock. The centre console controls feature a Lexus first: electrostatic switches that need just a finger touch to adjust the air conditioning temperature.

Exclusive F Sport design features
The new IS F Sport models can be instantly recognised thanks to their special grille and front bumper design. The “waistline” of the spindle-shaped grille is set higher than on the standard models, creating a larger lower grille that can draw in the greater volume of cooling air needed for sportier driving.
The IS F Sport also has an exclusive seat design that provides extra support. The seats are made using an integrated foaming method that ensures there are no gaps between the upholstery and the filling, giving both excellent comfort and great lateral holding.
In another direct reference to the LFA supercar, the IS F Sport features a driver’s meter with a moving centre ring.