The compact luxury sports sedan segment is a fiercely competitive market, dominated by the likes of BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class In this highly demanding segment, Lexus has a tall order to create a brand new IS that can not only compete effectively but also stand out as an outstanding winner.
The BMW 3-Series has been the benchmark in this segment for quite some time now, followed closely by the Audi and Mercedes entry level sedans. However, the competition has successfully closed the gap in recent years and there are less and less distinct features to differentiate the various products. Lexus saw this as the perfect time to re-make its IS model as a unique model with a passionate character.
In the past – while the Lexus generally received good reviews for the IS models – buyers in this segment tended to associate the IS with comfort rather than performance. To help sway more peoples’ opinions, the third-generation IS receives a bold new style and a revised suspension; not to mention the new F-Sport version with a lot more character.
Design
The most striking change to the new IS is the exterior. Lexus’ of the past had, at times, been criticized for being too conservative. Its new generation, with its L-Finesse design, is anything but “normal.”
Lexus has rolled out its new signature “spindle” grill across its entire range now. The one found on the new IS is the most dramatic with its lower portion stretched wider and sharper. F-Sport models receive an even more aggressive “chain-mail” treatment.
The lights look equally as sharp. The LED running lights are separated from the main assemblies and add a real sense of drama to the front. The taillights wrap around the rear fenders and give the IS a sexy look.
Beneath the cosmetics, the IS has grown. Wheelbase is up almost three inches while overall length has increased about the same. It is also wider and a bit taller. With its new dimensions, the cabin is set more rearward, accentuating the long hood.
To cope with the added bulk, the chassis was stiffened, with additional braces and revised mountings for the independent suspension. The rear got extra attention and gets an all-new multi-link design that improves cornering ability and increases trunk space.
Lexus has earned the reputation of having some of the best interiors on the market. The IS uses a more cockpit-like approach than others in the line-up. The 2014 IS is the first Lexus to receive the brand’s new infotainment system, which should please tech-savvy customers.
Performance
It may come as a disappointment to some, but the engine choices are carried over from the previous generation. Nevertheless, the 204-hp produced by the base 2.5-litre V6 and 306-hp from the 3.5-litre V6 are adequate and match up well against the competition. They are not perhaps “best-in-class” but deliver smooth, Lexus-like feel and performance.
Both IS 250 and IS 350 come standard as rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is an available option. Also, all models come with a six-speed automatic except for the IS 350 RWD, which has an eight-speed automatic.
The more rigid chassis is certainly noticeable when driving the car hard. Turn in is quick and feedback through the electric steering is just right – a surprising feat considering that many automakers fail to make electric steering feel substantial.
Still, if you want the ultimate sports feel you need to order the IS 350 RWD F-Sport version, though even models without the F-Sport package provide pleasurable driving dynamics.
The suspension soaks up all of the roads imperfections without filtering out the necessary road feel. The IS communicates very clearly what is happening at the contact patches, yet is unfazed by major disturbances. The IS is a refined luxury car with a fair amount of sportiness added in.
Environment
Cabin materials are top quality. The signature Lexus clock, which illuminates at night, adds to the sophistication.
The seats – front and back – feature perforated leather, fine stitching and supportive contours. Rear passengers benefit the most from the stretched wheelbase. The rear seats are still snug, but they are comfortable thanks to added thigh support and soft front seat backs. The IS is very capable of carrying four people at a time, though the IS is not a very roomy sedan in comparison to say, its own Lexus ES sedans.
Features
Starting prices for the 2014 IS range from $37,300 to $44,500.
Standard equipment includes a leather steering wheel with audio controls and paddle shifters, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, integrated garage door opener, keyless entry, and Bluetooth.
Fuel efficiency numbers (L/100km) for the IS 250 RWD are 9.8 city, 6.5 highway and 8.3 combined and the IS 250 AWD sees 10.4 city, 7.3 highway and 9.0 combined. The IS 350 gets 10.8 city, 7.3 highway for 9.2 combined in RWD trim and 11.0 city, 7.7 highway for 9.5 combined with AWD.
Thumbs up
The new IS is one of the most visually appealing in this segment and adds a refined, sporty ride to the Lexus reputation of long-term reliability and value.
Thumbs down
While the IS works well in everyday driving situations, if ultimate driving performance is of the utmost importance, the competitors are still slightly ahead.
The bottom line
If you want something luxurious and refined, the 2014 Lexus IS certainly deserves to be on your shortlist.
