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NEWS
DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: Lexus releases official IS pics
Important new model revealed prior to its debut at America's premier motor showAggressive sweeps and curves are blended with some legacy cues in the styling of the new, larger Lexus IS.
Pictures released by Lexus overnight show the new IS has visually evolved from the current car, with a GS-style spindle grille and packaging inherited from the LF-CC concept car introduced at the Paris motor show last year.
Set to make its public debut on January 15 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the new IS will feature a cleaner interior design and "sportier driving position" with "more supportive seats", in contrast with the current car, Lexus claims.
According to press material accompanying the images, the IS is longer in the wheelbase and wider, providing a roomier interior and also boasting increased luggage capacity – an important selling feature in the North American markets. The extra length has led to supposedly class-leading knee room in the rear of the car, and the rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split for through-loading to the boot.
At the helm, the seat is more comfortable and supportive in lateral movement. The hip point has been lowered, as has the angle of the steering wheel, which was inspired by the design of the wheel for the LFA. Reach adjustment is longer too.
Trim materials have been improved and a highpoint of the interior is a premium analogue clock. And Lexus has developed electrostatic switches for the climate control system. A gentle touch will adjust the temperature for optimum comfort.
F Sport versions of the new IS will be distinguished from other variants by grille and front bumper styling, with the spindle grille pinched at a higher point, for a larger air intake below to draw in more air. Inside, the seats are designed to provide more support than the standard units, and an innovative "foaming method" used during the manufacturing process ensures gaps between the foam and the outer material are filled. Lexus claims this aids lateral holding and comfort.
A feature inspired by a similar facility in the LFA is the driver's meter in the IS F Sport, which comes with a moving centre ring.
Precise timing for the new model's launch in Australia are yet to be confirmed, but Lexus expects the new car to follow the tradition of previous generations, with the IS launch taking place roughly 12 to 18 months after the latest GS. That would place the local launch for the IS in the second half of this year, 2013.
More information will be revealed in Detroit next week and motoring.com.au will be there to report the up to date details.
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