Lexus premieres new sporty IS 2020
Though the outlook has not been through much changes, the engine got a performance upgrade
Japanese luxury automaker – Lexus launched the latest IS worldwide, on June 16, 2020, via an online event. Since its debut in 1999, the IS made its sweet spot among sports-sedan enthusiasts and over the past two decades, Lexus has managed to sell around 1.09 million units of IS.
Since 1989, Lexus has been manufacturing luxury vehicles under the banner of Toyota. It is Japan's largest premium car manufacturer and is ranked among the 10 largest Japanese global brands. The Lexus brand gained recognition in the Bangladeshi market with is luxury sports utility vehicle – NX.
The Lexus NX is identical to Toyota Harrier; everything on the outside looks the same. NX's interior, however, is more luxurious and the entire vehicle, in general, is more fine-tuned compared to the Harrier. The NX is marketed by different names in different countries and in Bangladesh, it is commonly known as "Lexus Harrier".
The Lexus IS, commonly referred to as "Lexus Altezza" in Bangladesh, made its stand in the local market with its fine-tuned engine that delivers quality performance. Its latest model comes in nine variants which include three special editions. The nine variants consist of IS 300 and IS 350s which are equipped with two transmission options; AWD (all-wheel drive) and RWD (rear-wheel drive).
To enhance the performance, the IS comes with four performance driving modes. The normal mode provides the optimal balance of fuel efficiency and engine performance. The eco mode moderates the throttle response and engine power output for increased fuel efficiency. The sports mode comes with two options; S – alters powertrain for faster gear shifting and dynamic throttle mapping, and S+ - takes it another step further by tightening the suspension to reduce body lean. The custom mode allows the driver to create his or her own unique profile of drive mode settings for a more personalised driving experience.
The latest IS features a bold trim level which is quite similar to the 2019 model. On the front, the triple-beam headlights add a sharp edge to the cars looks and can automatically switch from high to low beam when the sensor picks up another vehicle ahead. The taillights on the back stretch out to the rear fenders.
On the inside, the dashboard is fitted with a 10.3-inch multimedia display that comes with a voice-activated navigation system. The digital gauges in the cockpit are nearly identical to the ones of the Lexus LFA supercar. To further enhance the infotainment needs, this model features 15-speaker, 835-watt Mark Levinson premium surround sound audio system.
All variants of the latest IS come with standard Lexus Safety System+; pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, high-speed dynamic radar cruise control. And intelligent high beams.
The Lexus IS 2020 is available in seven colours - eminent white pearl, liquid platinum, atomic silver, nebula gray pearl, caviar, obsidian, and redline. The interior is available in four options as well; chateau, flaxen, black, and nuance black NuLuxe and all four options come with Illustrious piano black trim.