Lexus updates IS; drops SC

The IS range of Lexus midsizers has received its first major makeover since the current GSE20R model, released in 2005.

Updated styling and engines will be revealed on the Lexus stand at the upcoming Paris motor show in October, alongside the CT 200h hybrid small car.

The IS250's 2.5-litre V6 engine has been revised for better CO2 figures (now 194g/100km) to meet Euro 5 requirements. The new model will be offered with an automatic transmission only, in the UK at least. No confirmation from Lexus Australia whether it will drop the manual option, however most models sold Down Under are ordered with the six-speed auto.

Engine output remains at 153kW/252Nm.

European customers are also offered a diesel version. The 2.2-litre turbodiesel is rated at 110kW/340Nm and the 0-100km sprint takes just a little over 10 seconds.

Previously Lexus Australia has said no to bringing the diesel offering to local buyers, and that stand is unlikely to change due to the brand's focus on hybrid and efficient petrol models.

What Australians will see, however, is exterior updates for the IS 250 and IS 250 Convertible models in the form of a revised front grille, new alloy wheel designs and restyled head and taillights. The interior is also offered with a new range of trim colours.

The F-Sport specification wears redesigned front and rear spoilers, "faired-in" foglights, and 18-inch new alloys "inspired by the IS F".

Pricing is expected to remain the same. Specification and prices will be announced late this year, coinciding with details of the brand's intention for a "refresh across the line up" and the local launch of the IS 350.

In other Lexus news, the brand has decided to drop its rather unloved SC430 convertible, after almost 10 years' production. The two-door hard-top coupe-convertible inspired models like the IS 250 and IS F, according to Lexus.

"The end of production of SC 430 signals the start of a new era for Lexus -- one defined by L-finesse design and innovation," says Lexus Australia chief executive Tony Cramb. "Lexus is currently gearing up for the next decade when we will launch our first supercar -- the LFA -- along with a host of new product including our first hatch, the CT 200h."

The new IS 250 can be seen in the flesh at October's Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.

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