2019 Lexus IS
The Lexus Style Manifesto
Lexus has built some exotic-looking concept cars (not to mention the LFA supercar), but until the current-generation IS sedan launched in 2013, none of that standout styling translated to the luxury brand’s mainstream production models. The IS has become a styling statement for Lexus, introducing design features that would find their way onto most of the automaker’s other models. The 2019 IS is no different, featuring striking contours that have inspired the rest of the line-up.
Performance
With the IS, Lexus sought to create a genuine sports sedan that could go head to head with segment leaders like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. The IS manages to be suitably sporty but comes equipped with the level of refinement returning customers expect from Lexus.
For 2019, buyers can choose from three powertrain options. The IS 300 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. This engine produces 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, getting the IS 300 from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 143 mph. This model also gets an EPA-rated 26 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway).* Those who love to kick things up a notch can opt for the IS 300 AWD, which comes equipped with a 260-hp V6 and a 0-60 time of 6.1 seconds (not to mention all-wheel drive).
Finally, the beefiest model in the IS lineup is the IS 350 AWD, which sports a 3.5-liter V6, six-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive. The V6 is rated at 311 hp and 280 lb-ft, and with it the IS 350 can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 5.6 seconds and top out at 142 mph. EPA-rated fuel economy for the IS 350 is 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway).*
Features
The 2019 Lexus IS is a four-door, five-seat luxury sports sedan. Pricing starts at $38,310.**
Befitting a luxury car, the IS comes with a generous array of standard equipment. Some of the highlights include 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels, moonroof, LED headlights, heated exterior mirrors, 60/40 split-fold rear seat, tilt-and-telescoping steering column, Bluetooth®, electrochromic rearview mirror with compass, Siri® Eyes Free voice control for iPhone users, and a 10-speaker audio system with a 7-inch display screen.
Optional features include a heated steering wheel, 10.3-inch display screen, navigation, Mark Levinson® 15-speaker surround sound system, heated and ventilated seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a memory system for the driver’s seat, mirrors, and steering column.
Like most Lexus models, the IS is also available with an F Sport package, which gives the car a more aggressive look and adds some genuine performance hardware. The IS F Sport package includes Adaptive Variable Suspension with Sport+ mode (IS 350 only), heated sport seats with contrast stitching, perforated leather steering wheel and shifter, unique front fascia, rear bumper, 18-inch alloy wheels, high-friction brake pads, and a TFT instrument cluster inspired by the one in the Lexus LFA supercar.
Design
When it was introduced in 2013, the current-generation IS marked a radical departure for Lexus. Whereas previous Lexus models were conservatively styled, the IS introduced a more dramatic design language, like the slash-like LED daytime running lights that have since transitioned to most other Lexus models.
The entire front fascia incorporates sharp headlights, large air intakes in the front bumper, and a "spindle" grille that’s even more stylized than before. The grille folds back at a higher point, giving the IS a sleek appearance. At the back, the taillights emphasize the existing “L”-shaped lighting elements, and rectangular chrome exhaust tips complete the cutting-edge look.
Inside, you'll find an available 10.3-inch central display screen that supplements the standard 7.0-inch unit. The Remote Touch Interface infotainment controller includes conveniently located “Enter” buttons to make it easier to use.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2018 Lexus IS includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, an arsenal of airbags, and the Lexus Safety System+, which includes a pre-collision system, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, and high beam assist. Optional features include a rearview camera, park assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Verdict
The 2019 Lexus IS combines the best of old Lexus with a new focus on sporty driving and extroverted styling. For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2019 Lexus IS, contact us online or visit MotorWorld | MileOne Autogroup at 150 MotorWorld Drive, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.
* Preliminary mileage estimates determined by Lexus. EPA mileage estimates not available at time of publishing. Actual mileage will vary.
** MSRP does not include delivery, processing and handling fee of $995. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment. Dealer price will vary. Does not include accessory options installed by dealer.
Image Credit: Lexus