(Wed 10 Mar 10)

Lexus has introduced a new trim level to its IS range. It's called F-Sport, which was the name previously used for a body styling package intended to make the regular IS look more like the high-performance five-litre V8 IS F.

The new model does much the same job. Available in both 250 petrol automatic and 220d manual-transmission turbo diesel forms, it comes with 18" alloy wheels, a bootlid spoiler, leather/alcantara upholstery, aluminium pedals, a more sporty-looking steering wheel and sports seats. The 250 also gets lowered suspension, though the diesel doesn't.

Although it is one grade down from the range-topping SE-L, the F-Sport also has some SE-L equipment fitted as standard, including rain-sensing wipers, high-intensity headlights, a 13-speaker audio system and memory settings for the front seats and door mirrors.

The F-Sport is priced at £28,290 for the diesel and £29,365 for the petrol automatic, making it £785 cheaper than the equivalent SE-L models.

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