BEIJING MOTOR SHOW: Facelifted Lexus IS unveiled

Lexus has lifted the wraps off its updated IS model, which carries over mechanicals from the current range, but adopts a cleaner look, a new interior design and a new safety pack.

Identifiable by a new front fascia featuring revised headlights, larger air intakes and a restyled 'spindle' grille, the IS also sports a new sculpture line in the sheet metal along the car's flanks. L-shaped LED tail lights bookend the look of the car at the rear and two new exterior colours are introduced: Deep Blue Mica and Graphite Black Glass Flake.

Inside, the new IS boasts an infotainment screen now measuring 10.3 inches, in lieu of the previous seven-inch unit. Enter buttons have been added for easier use of the haptic 'Remote Touch Interface' single-point controller. Audio and climate control switchgear have been modified to fit within a smaller footprint in the centre fascia. And the instrument binnacle shroud is now enhanced with new stitching. Earlier interior colours, Moonstone and Ivory, are replaced by one new colour, Chateau. The cupholders are new, the leatherbound palm rest for the Remote Touch Interface is larger and the analogue clock in the dash comes with new calibrations.

Finally, a new Lexus Safety System + pack bundles together Pre-Collision, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam and Radar Cruise Control.

The updated IS range is expected in Australia before the end of the year.