This is the 2021 Lexus IS. It’s the Japanese manufacturer’s latest attempt at competing with the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
It’s a task in which the IS has had varying levels of success depending on where in the world it’s on sale. Whilst it has done well in America and Asia, it’s never quite been able to cut it in the UK or Europe… so we’re not getting it.
The new Lexus IS saloon looks exactly how I expected it to. Though it is predictable, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. Whilst the design language is very similar to the previous model, slight improvements have been made all round.
It now appears wider and lower giving the IS a better stance and improved presence. While the grille is absolutely huge, it still looks good unlike the grille on the new 4 Series. The slimmer, sharper headlights complete the aggressive front end.
The side profile features some attractive lines and creases which taper in towards the back of the car. This is where you’ll find the sporty rear bumper with twin-exit exhausts. The new uni-beam light cluster stretching across the IS’s rear-end takes centre stage.
F-Sport variants get a couple of extra features such as an exclusive ‘F’ mesh grille, a rear spoiler and specialised 19-inch alloys.
Changes aren’t so obvious inside the new Lexus IS. Front and centre is the new 10.3-inch infotainment display which is now compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The unpopular touchpad controls for the infotainment unit remain but the screen itself is now touchscreen giving the user another option. Other than that, there are a couple of minor changes to the interior trims and accents but nothing at all drastic.
The powertrain choices carry over from the previous model, too. The headline is the return of the IS350 with its 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated V6 putting 311bhp through the back wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The IS300 gets a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged unit offering 241bhp. The hybrid IS300h retains its 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-pot paired with an electric motor producing 178bhp.
The 2021 Lexus IS will supposedly set the bar for all future Lexus models in terms of their dynamics. The IS has been extensively tested at Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama which boasts a 5.3km circuit with a similar style and landscape to the Nurburgring.
Lexus’ aim when developing the steering for the IS was “achieving linear response to accelerator operation and driver intention”. With its wider track, more rigid design and responsive steering, the new IS is quieter, more comfortable and more enjoyable to drive.
Do you think the Lexus IS would be a match for the 3 Series or C-Class if it was available in Europe? Let us know in the comments section below or via our Facebook and Twitter pages.
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