2014 Lexus IS Review

  
Interior of the 2014 Lexus IS Drive



 

 the third major overhaul of the Lexus IS: the compact, rear-drive sedan introduced in North America for the 2001 model year and long the sportiest, most enthusiast-appealing car in Lexus's lineup -- before the LFA, At least. the 2014 IS was inspired by the LFA, borrowing design cues and bits of technology. The development team's goal was "the most fun-to-drive car in the segment." Initially, the new IS will be offered in the same V6-powered IS 250 and IS 350 designations as its predecessor.

 Its wheelbase and length have increased (2.7 inches and 3.6 inches respectively). The IS suspension is reworked with new control arms and anti-roll bar mounts in front and offset springs and shocks in the rear. Development engineers say the combination increases lateral grip, even with the same tires.   
 The power train is largely carryover with improvements throughout. Engine castings are lighter, valve size has increased slightly and spark plugs have been moved to the center of the combustion chamber. Specific fuel consumption improves, though output remains the same: 204 horsepower, 185 lb-ft for 2.5-liter V6 in the IS 250; 306 hp, 277 lb-ft in the 3.5-liter IS 350.

 All-wheel drive is optional with both, using a chain-driven center differential with a default 30/70 torque split. All IS 250s, and 350s with all-wheel drive, will come with the conventional six-speed automatic used in the current car. Even the least expensive 2014 IS will come standard with high-intensity discharge headlights, column-mounted shift paddles, 10 airbags and subscription-free live traffic and weather information -- transmitted through the HD radio and shown on a map in the center display, no nav. system required.Their are a lot of options for this car.

One option that isn't confusing is the F Sport package, though its content varies depending on the model. More than before, F Sport is less a cosmetic package and more a legitimate performance enhancement. rear-drive IS 350 F Sports add an adaptive variable suspension and VGRS, for Variable Gear Ratio Steering. This trick speeds up the steering when the electronics are set to Sport + mode.

 Time for The Specs.
 2014 Lexus IS
 Price: $36,150 - $43,500
 Available: Summer 2013
 It is a Five-passenger, front-engine, rear or all-wheel drive sedan
 Drive-train: 2.5L V6, with 204HP & 185Lb-Ft, Six-Speed Auto; 3.5L V6, with 306HP & 277Lb-Ft, Eight-Speed Auto
 Curb Weight: 3461 - 3737 Lbs.
 Performance: 0-60 in 7.7 Sec. with a top speed of 140 MPH for the IS 250. 0-60 in 5.6 Sec. with a top speed of 143 MPH for the IS 350.