Refined Performance
by Malcolm Baylis (13 Dec 05)

Lexus, as a word, doesn't mean anything. It's a word plucked out of the sky, so to speak, back in the 1980s, when the then boss of Toyota decided the company should have a super-duper prestige model to challenge the big hitters from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. But tell the Japanese that the word "Lexus" has no meaning and they look at you as if you are mad. "Lexus means Finesse," they rap back.

And, sure enough, they are right! The latest model to join the growing stable is exactly that - finesse on wheels. The IS is into its second generation and the launch marks an important staged in the march of the brand across Europe, providing superb driving dynamics and refined performance, as well as quality comfort and impressive specification.

The IS is in great shape in more ways than one, too. The design is labelled as "L-Finesse" (there are no prizes for correctly answering what the "L" stands for) and presents a car with a wide track with minimum overhangs front and back and consequently provides a muscular stance, coupled with lots of flowing lines, making it one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in its upper-class segment.

The new model is 175mm longer and 75mm wider than its predecessor and its track width has also been increased by 40mm at the front and 50mm at the back. Fortunately this means more leg and shoulder room for all the passengers.

Ride and drive qualities are really fantastic, helped along by new double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension systems with monotube shock absorbers. It is a system that makes long-distance travel really quite effortless, smooth and comfortable.

Attention to detail goes hand in hand with advanced technology. The new IS is equipped with a wide range of safety and stability equipment, such as ABS, EBD, traction control and vehicle stability control.

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