DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: New Lexus IS in Oz by Spring

Lexus has confirmed it will release three variants of the redesigned IS mid-size sedan in Australia shortly after it goes on sale in the USA in June this year, including the first ever IS hybrid.

Revealed at this week’s Detroit motor show, the expanded IS range will include a hybrid variant flanked by two petrol-powered offerings, while at the same time offering prestige buyers a completely redesigned look, more passenger and cargo space, and a driving experience Lexus says is closely akin to that of the recently released Lexus GS.

Other new additions to the Lexus IS range include the adoption of a 60:40-split folding rear seat and an LFA supercar-inspired instrument cluster within a more driver-oriented cockpit.

Australia will receive from launch the IS 250 (2.5-litre petrol) and IS 350 (3.5-litre petrol) variants, and a range-first petrol-electric hybrid dubbed the IS 300h. All models will be offered in F Sport guise, with other variations yet to be confirmed.

The hybrid model utilises a newly developed 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with direct injection, operating in conjunction with an electric motor to output a combined total of 162kW.

Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are still a secret, though Lexus is claiming less than 4.3L/100km for the combined cycle and a “sub-100 gram [per kilometre]” CO2 output.

IS 250 and IS 300h models are fitted exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the range-topping IS 350 adopts a high-tech eight-speed unit. All models feature ‘throttle blipping’ on downshifts and are electronically controlled via a new Drive Mode Selector with four preset options (ECO, NORMAL, SPORT/SPORT S and SPORT S+).

The new IS is 75mm longer than its predecessor, giving the premium medium sedan a much needed gain in interior space. Along a 70mm-longer wheelbase and redesigned front seats that are 15mm thinner, the IS now offers an additional 85mm of rear-seat knee room. The model is also 10mm wider.

Hybrid variants feature a battery located beneath the luggage deckboard, ensuring no decrease in cargo space over petrol-powered models. Lexus has not yet revealed the number of cargo litres available in the new model.

The driving position is also improved by way of greater lateral support in the seating, increased steering column range adjustment, plus new hip point and steering column angles. Ergonomics are improved by a heavily revised HMI system that uses electrostatic switches to allow the control of some functions via finger swipe.

Lexus says GS-sourced suspension, laser screw welding and adhesive body bonding contribute to a 20 per cent increase in roll rigidity. Selected models also receive adaptive variable damping and variable gear ratio (electric-assisted) steering for the first time.

Safety see the IS offer the usual array of supplementary restraint systems and electronic driver aids, but add a pyrotechnic pop-up bonnet to reduce pedestrian injuries, automatic high-beam assist, a blind-spot monitor and lane departure warning (on selected models).

“We adopted an entirely different approach to the development of the new IS,” explained Lexus IS chief engineer Junichi Furuyama. “Every aspect of the new IS has been engineered with a renewed focus on the sporting performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback.”

The all-new Lexus IS range will arrive in Australia early in the third quarter of this year, with pricing and variant specifics to be announced closer to that time.

More news and coverage of the 2013 Detroit Motor Show

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