(January 16, 2013) DETROIT — Lexus on Tuesday unveiled the all-new 2014 IS sedan available in rear- and all-weather drive versions of the IS 250 and IS 350, with a further evolution of F SPORT available across the entire model range. Europe, Japan, and select international markets, will get the IS 300h, the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive.
 
Driving performance is a key selling point in the sport sedan segment. In conjunction with a bold new design including the Lexus spindle grille, the all-new IS has been engineered to have excellent dynamic capabilities to provide an exceptional driving experience.
 
“I adopted an entirely different approach to the development of the all-new IS,” said Junichi Furuyama, IS chief engineer. “Specifically, it was to make an entertaining driving experience a major premise behind all aspects of performance.
 
“The conventional approach involves developing each individual aspect in the hope that they will combine to offer an engaging driving experience. By contrast, development of the new IS flipped this process on its head, first establishing the pleasurable driving experience owners desire, and then developing the individual performance elements to support it.”
 
Every aspect of the IS has been engineered with a renewed focus on engaging performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback.
 
“The IS has always been precise and fun to drive,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “The all-new IS kicks it up a notch with true sport sedan driving dynamics, state of the art onboard technologies, and an all-new design that makes it look fast even when it’s standing still.”
 
Incorporating several Lexus-first features and technical innovations, the IS showcases an interior design with all the refinement and quality expected of a Lexus, plus a focused driver’s environment, a significant improvement in rear seat comfort and spaciousness, and a larger, more convenient trunk.
 
Rear- and all-weather drive versions of the IS 250 are powered by a 2.5 liter V6 gas engine.  The IS 350 features a 3.5 liter V6 engine.  The IS 300h will employ the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain, based on a newly developed 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine.   
 
The IS 350 RWD features the eight-speed, Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission from the IS F high performance sedan with quicker shifts, full torque converter lockup and throttle blips in manual mode. The new IS is the first Lexus model to adopt G force Artificial Intelligence (G-AI) control in Sport mode.  This system automatically selects the optimal gear and downshift pattern in response to G force, and maintains the selected gear through a corner. 
 
F SPORT models not only benefit from exclusive, exterior and interior design features, but also genuine dynamic enhancements. Both the front and rear suspension systems and the electric power steering are exclusively tuned for F SPORT, enhancing handling performance. An Adaptive Variable Suspension system is tuned for F SPORT models, while Variable Gear Ratio Steering is also available on IS 350.
 
F SPORT models announce their presence with an exclusive spindle grille that incorporates a bolder insert design. The bottom corners of the front bumpers feature aerodynamic detailing to provide enhanced brake cooling. Unique 18-inch wheels feature a Y-spoke design inspired by the LFA.
 
On board, drivers will receive vehicle information from an innovative driver’s meter cluster with a moving center ring, inspired by the LFA. Interior trim detailing includes an F SPORT steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminum pedals and scuff plates that include the Lexus logo.