First looks at the new Lexus IS – due for local release early next year – show a further development of the Spindle Grille with improved tech-spec inside the car.
Lexus International Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi says: “What we had foremost in mind in developing the new IS was to make it a car that excelled in communicating with the driver and, as a car with wide latitude for providing such feedback, would never fail in doing so, regardless of the road conditions or driving status. We retained the compact body and aimed to make the new IS a Lexus compact sports sedan that provides high-quality ride comfort while offering a high level of vehicle control.”
Muscular fenders, straight-line-type rear combination lamps sporting an ‘L’ motif, and three-dimensional bumper garnishes add to the look kicked off by a new-design grille that features a three-dimensional structure originating from the foremost tip of the grille.
There are now two new exterior colours developed for IS. These include Sonic Iridium, which accentuates the shape of the vehicle, as well as Sonic Chrome, which exhibits a metallic quality in a high-gloss finish.
The F Sport version boasts an exclusive ‘F’ mesh pattern as well as a grille-bottom air intake, special 19-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and the F Sport-exclusive Radiant Red Contrast Layering external panel colour.
Inside a new multimedia system features a new touchscreen while available chromatic colours are used on the upper instrument panel.
The new IS boasts a new version of Lexus Safety System+, which has further evolved through the introduction of advanced safety technologies, including added functions such as Emergency Steering Assist, which improves the system’s lane recognition performance.
The Pre-Collision System has been improved to detect daytime cyclists as well as pedestrians in low-light conditions and oncoming vehicles and pedestrians crossing the street. Also featured are functions such as Emergency Steering Assist, which assists steering within the vehicle’s lane as cued by the driver.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) combine to help the driver stay on course. In the new IS, lane recognition performance has been improved. When LTA is activated, AI technologies are applied to camera-actuated, white-line recognition for advanced deceleration of the vehicle in line with the size of the curve. Keeping lateral g-forces constant while driving through curves contributes to stable and comfortable driving and makes driving assist more continuous.
Other new technologies include Automatic High Beam which detects preceding or oncoming vehicles.
Various other forms of advanced safety equipment are featured on the new IS, including parking support brakes, and the Panoramic View Monitor, which supports periphery safety checks.
The new Lexus IS will be available for sale in South Africa early next year. The range will comprise three model derivatives which Lexus SA will announce at launch. Lexus’ 7-Year Warranty and Maintenance Plan will come as standard for IS drivers.
