Since the launch of the new IS 300h range last year, the model has re-invigorated the luxury medium sedan class, focusing on three key attributes: an evocative design, imaginative technology and leading driving dynamics, embracing a new generation of IS sports sedan owners.
The hybrid market has shown immense growth in the past five years and the shift from diesel to alternative-propulsion vehicles is expected to keep growing at a rapid rate, further supporting the company’s mission to reduce emissions.
Also, Lexus South Africa plans to leverage its existing dominance in the hybrid-electric market to expand its share even further. At the same time, Lexus will position hybrids as performance and technology-rich vehicles. The Lexus IS boasts three model grades in hybrid: IS 300h EX, IS 300h SE and IS 300 F Sport.
Continual Kaizen
As part of the current spec change, three modifications were made: from an aesthetics point of view, the IS hybrid badge and the blue logo have been removed – this is due to Lexus’ future strategy to market and sell vehicles that fit into the brand’s New Energy Vehicle (NEV) offering. Hybrids, plug-in hybrids and/or full electric, the full range’s push start button colour has been changed from blue to gun metallic. Finally, to enhance product appeal and cater to customer requests, a key change is the inclusion of a sunroof in the F Sport model grade. Previously, the sunroof was available as standard only in the SE grade.
High Performance Hybrid
The IS boasts a petrol-hybrid 2.5 litre CVT engine that achieves a maximum power of 133kW @ 6000rpm and maximum torque of 221Nm @ 4200-5400rpm. The models total system output is 164kW and the IS has a combined-cycle fuel consumption from as low as 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres. The 0-100 sprint is dispatched in 8.7 seconds with a top speed of 200 km/h.
More Features as Standard
Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels for the EX and SE (19-inch for the F Sport), an electric park brake, 10.3-inch touch-display with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a pre-collision system for the SE grade and F Sport featuring daytime/night-time pedestrian detection plus daytime cyclist detection, all-speed active cruise control (SE and F Sport), lane tracing assist (SE and F Sport), blind-spot monitor (SE and F Sport), rear cross-traffic alert+brake, as well as a panoramic view monitor for the SE and F Sport when reversing.
In addition to smart entry and start, heated-and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, 10-speaker audio for the EX grade and 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound for SE and F Sport grades. The SE and F Sport models also come standard with satellite navigation, voice control and LED headlamps with automatic high beam.
F Sport Appeal
The IS F Sport is alluring and assertive. Lexus designers didn’t hold back when giving the range topper its coupe-like silhouette and dramatic rendition of the signature spindle grille that shows even greater intricacy in the design. To achieve the desired texture and interaction with light, developing the F Sport grille represents a work of art.
The front grille features the iconic mesh pattern that has been used on all F Sport models, complementing the brand’s sporty image. The lower grille construction incorporates RC-F inspired air intakes, also strengthening its sporty image.
F Sport exclusive items further heighten the sporty driving image, which include the F Sport emblem on the front fender, piano-black garnish on the front grille and lower bumper, as well as exclusive 19-inch aluminium wheels that feature a premium dark-metallic coating.
What’s the ticket?
The Lexus IS models retail from R924 200 for the EX-grade, R988 500 for the SE-grade and R1 007 300 for the F Sport. The entire IS range boasts a best-in-class 7-year/105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle service intervals are pegged at every 15 000km, alternatively once a year.
