What's the news?
Lexus has released first images and details of the all-new IS saloon ahead of its debut at the Detroit Auto Show. The third generation car will go head-to-head with the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 when it arrives in the UK during the summer.
Exterior
Clearly inspired by the LF-CC concept, the all-new IS wears the new Lexus spindle grille flanked by an aggressive headlight arrangement. The set up includes a separate L-shaped daytime running light (DRL) mounted below the main housing.
In profile, the new IS is significantly more dramatic than the current model thanks to a cabin that has been shifted rearwards. Combined with the sweeping crease, which runs up from the sill into the tail-lights, the overall look is much more dynamic.
Interior
The new IS's cabin has been thoroughly redesigned with a more driver-focused cockpit. Cabin material, trim and finish are all said to have been improved, as too has legroom thanks to a longer wheelbase than the car it replaces.
Touches of the LFA supercar make an appearance in the design of the steering wheel and part-digital, part-analogue dials that, at the flip of a switch, see the central speedo sliding to the right, revealing the selected menu in a small TFT screen.
Mechanicals
Lexus has not yet announced details of the engine line-up but we do know from prototype drives from before Christmas that the V6-powered IS 250 will be offered alongside a sub-100g/km hybrid IS 300h model that will replace the IS 250d diesel in the model range.
Anything else?
The F Sport model (not the full fat IS F, which has not been announced as yet) will feature unique touches to both the interior and exterior with a distinctive waistline and bespoke seats.
Paul Healy - 10 Jan 2013