The new Lexus IS

The new Lexus IS made a debut on Monday, June 15,2020 at a virtual launch ceremony after the initial

postponement .
Since the debut of the first generation in 1999, the Lexus IS has pursued the fun of driving unique to compact

rear-wheel-drive sports sedans. The all-new IS takes high-level driving performance and sporty styling after

more than a million units sold, over more than 20 years to new extremes.
In strengthening its Lexus Driving Signature of performance, the new IS was honed at various facilities

throughout the world, including the new Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama that opened last year, according to

the  Lexus company. Uncompromising attention to detail will allow drivers of the new IS to enjoy a comfortable

driving sensation in everyday driving situations.

The aggressive styling design creates a wide and low form characterised by sharpness, while the IS features

advanced safety technologies, including an evolved version of Lexus Safety System+.
Lexus International Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi says: “What we had foremost in mind in developing the new

IS was to make it a car that excelled in communicating with the driver and, as a car with wide latitude for

providing such feedback, would never fail in doing so, regardless of the road conditions or driving status.
“We retained the compact body and aimed to make the new IS a Lexus compact sports sedan that provides high-

quality ride comfort while offering a high level of vehicle control.”
In addition to slender headlamps featuring newly-developed compact and lightweight lamp units, a low centre of

gravity is expressed through low-positioned areas around the grille matched by lowered side character lines

and the shape of the rear extremity of the trunk. Muscular fenders, straight-line-type rear combination lamps

sporting an “L” motif, and three-dimensional bumper garnishes add to the aggressive look. In addition, new-

design 19-inch tyres and wide proportions based on a wide track evoke a sense of sporty driving.

A new-design Lexus Spindle Grille features a three-dimensional structure that originates from the foremost tip

of the grille. Block forms based on a spindle motif combine with a mesh pattern to achieve a sporty

impression. There are now two new exterior colours developed for IS. These include Sonic Iridium, which

accentuates the shape of the vehicle, as well as Sonic Chrome, which exhibits a metallic quality in a high-

gloss finish.
The F Sport version boasts an exclusive “F” mesh pattern as well as a grille-bottom air intake, special 19-

inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and the F Sport-exclusive Radiant Red Contrast Layering external panel

colour.
Inside a new multimedia system features a new touchscreen while available chromatic colours are used on the

upper instrument panel.
The new IS boasts a new version of Lexus Safety System+, which has further evolved through the introduction of

advanced safety technologies, including added functions such as Emergency Steering Assist which improves the

system’s lane recognition performance. These advances are part of Lexus’ continuing efforts to prevent traffic

accidents and fatalities, reduce driver burden, and develop driver-assist systems that provide a more natural

and safer  driving experience.
The Pre-Collision System has been improved to detect daytime cyclists as well as pedestrians in low-light

conditions and oncoming vehicles and pedestrians crossing the street. Also featured are functions such as

Emergency Steering Assist, which assists steering within the vehicle’s lane as cued by the driver.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) combine to help the driver stay on course. In the

new IS, lane recognition performance has been improved. When LTA is activated, AI technologies are applied to

camera-actuated, white-line recognition for advanced deceleration of the vehicle in line with the size of the

curve. Keeping lateral g-forces constant while driving through curves contributes to stable and comfortable

driving and makes driving assist more continuous.
Other new technologies include Automatic High Beam which detects preceding or oncoming vehicles. Various other

forms of advanced safety equipment are featured on the new IS, including parking support brakes, and the

Panoramic View Monitor, which supports periphery safety checks.
The new Lexus IS will be available for sale in South Africa early next year. The range will comprise three

model derivatives which Lexus SA will announce at launch. Lexus’ industry-leading 7 Year Warranty and

Maintenance Plan will come as standard for IS drivers.

Source: Auto Report Africa