Lexus IS350
The IS will be arriving in showrooms across the country later this year, completely redesigned from the ground up and available in two separate V6 models, the IS 250 and the IS 350. The 2006 IS 250 features a manual transmission rear-wheel drive (RWD) model, as well as paddle-shift automatic RWD and paddle-shift automatic all-wheel drive (AWD) models. The top-of-the-line IS 350 will pack 306 horsepower. Generously sized 17-inch and available 18-inch tires [1] (RWD only) will help the IS handle corners with precision and authority. The available 255/40R18 rear tires’ substantial width and low profile will provide traction to get the power down . Inside all the IS models, the driver will find the engine's push-button start, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, available voice-activated navigation system [2] with backup camera [3], and many other luxury features.
3.5-Liter V6 With 306 hp
The IS 350 boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine, that generates 306 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. A newly-designed direct fuel injection system and dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) that act on both the intake and exhaust valves provide optimal engine performance and efficiency under a variety of driving conditions. More good news: the IS 350's engine is so powerful it can launch you from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds [4].
2.5-Liter V6 With 204 hp
The IS 250 features an energetic 2.5-liter engine that packs 204 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. Since it utilizes a new direct fuel injection system, this engine allows improved control of the air/fuel ratio depending on engine speed and load. This powerful engine is available in three thrilling IS models. The rear-wheel drive IS features either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed paddle-shift sequential automatic transmission. This IS is also available in all-wheel drive with a six-speed paddle-shift sequential automatic transmission.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
The IS 350 features the next step in control, with its standard Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system [5]. Imagine VDIM as a computerized brain, coordinating the numerous vital systems of the IS 350, including the braking system, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Electronic Throttle Control with intelligence (ETCS-i) and Electronic Power Steering (EPS). Using integrated control software, the VDIM sensors calculate vehicle conditions to help maintain control. The VDIM system in the new IS 350 will be tuned for driving fun, allowing drivers to explore the outer limits of the car's handling.
Six-Speed Paddle Shifters
With the increased power of the IS, it's important to have greater control while driving. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are standard with the available six-speed automatic transmission. They allow you to shift quickly and precisely through the gears without having to remove your hands from the wheel. The paddles are ergonomically designed so you can shift through all six gears with confidence.
Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound System
Lexus offers the powerful performance of an available Mark Levinson® [6] sound system. A 10-channel amplifier powers this 300-watt [7] system. The system's 14 speakers fill the IS cabin with superior quality sound, courtesy of four 25mm tweeters, two 16cm woofers, five 65mm mid-range speakers, two 100mm mid-range speakers and one 200mm inverted subwoofer. The proprietary metal cone midrange and tweeter transducers provide superior sound quality because of cone rigidity. Besides the crystal clear sound, this versatile system can play most formats, including 2-channel stereo, 2-channel surround sound, Dolby® Digital 5.1 [8], and DTS 5.1. It even plays MP3/Windows Media® files. The surround sound system with 7.1-channel architecture is tailored specifically to the acoustics of the IS interior and the discerning audiophile.
Bi-Xenon Projector HID Headlamps with AFS
While traditional High-Intensity Discharge (HID) lighting requires halogen bulbs for high-beams, the IS features optional Bi-xenon headlamps for a much brighter light. Featuring an inner shade that retracts when high-beams are selected, the Bi-xenon headlamps improve lighting in two ways. Now you can project a more intense light when high-beams are activated. And the other advantage is that these headlamps feature the available Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS). AFS provides optimum illumination around curves by rotating up to 15 degrees to the left and five degrees to the right, depending on vehicle speed and steering angle. This gives you the advantage of using your high-beams to see around curves.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
The IS offers available Dynamic Radar Cruise Control [9], a highly advanced system that utilizes radar wave technology to maintain a pre-set following distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, throttle is automatically reduced and brakes are applied so the IS slows down. Once the road clears, the IS returns to its pre-set speed. This eliminates the need to brake and reset the system.
MP3/WMA Audio Capability
All IS models come with a miniplug port in the center console for your MP3/Windows Media® Audio (WMA) player. Now you can plug your iPod® or other device directly into the IS audio system.
New Design Elements
The IS utilizes the new Lexus design philosophy of L-Finesse, which is elegant simplicity. Although this results in a stunning new style, many of these design elements also perform a valuable function. The door mirrors have been streamlined, which improves aerodynamic performance and reduces wind noise. Door handles are more ergonomically designed. The streamlined body shape, mirrors and taillamps contribute to smoother air flow around the vehicle, maximizing fuel efficiency and making the ride even smoother.
