Although the third generation of Lexus IS is on sale from 2013, it is one of the most desirable compact sedans on the market. Now for 2021 Lexus IS is getting significant improvement. Lexus IS 2021 is not a completely new car, rather it is a facelifted version with a fresh look and more tech than its predecessor.
Starting with the design, it is easy to detect a new grille and new headlights with integrated daytime running lights. It is still easy to see an X shape grille but Lexus designers give it a little spice with three-dimensional vents.
Changes are subtle on the side view of Lexus IS 2021. It is only possible to distinguish. What is new in this section is restyled rear doors and new side skirts. Last but not least, Lexus designed all-new 18-inch alloy wheels for IS.
Moving to the rear there is a light bar connecting illuminated taillights together. A new rear bumper and trunk with different designs are also can be seen.
Sidewise, the 2021 model IS is a little larger than the current model. Lexus IS 2021 is now 30 mm longer, 30 mm wider and 5 mm taller than its predecessor. The only untouched measure is its 2.8 m wheelbase.
Moving to the cabin and you will see an almost identical cabin with the current model. Changes in the cabin are limited to side air vents with a circular shape and a new 8-inch touchscreen.
Ordering new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment is also available. This system is compatible with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. By ordering bigger touchscreen customers can enjoy a satnav and 1800 watt Mark Levinson premium audio system. The audio system is equipped with 17 speakers around the cabin.
Other features to mention are dual-zone automatic climate control system, front power seats, and push-button start.
Customers can also order IS 2021 with F Sport package. F Sport models are equipped with new sport bumpers, rear spoiler sport exhaust system, rear diffuser, unique grille, and 19-inch sport alloy wheels.
For the F Sport Model, there are some options available, including adaptive suspension, 19-inch BBS wheels. Carbon fiber mirror caps and carbon fiber rear spoiler. Optional BBS rims are almost 1.8 kg lighter than standard 19-inch wheels.
Inside the F Sport models, there are a couple of extras as a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats. Alloy pedals, special door panels and stainless steel scuff plates.
Lexus didn’t make major changes under the bonnet of 2021 IS. Starting with entry-level IS 300 which uses a 2-litre four-pot force induction engine. This model has a same engine as Lexus NX200 with 241 hp and 349 nm of torque. This little, powerful and efficient engine is paired with an 8-speed conventional automatic gearbox which eventually transfers engine torque to rear wheels.
Next up there is AWD version of IS 300 with 6-speed automatic transmission. Despite the same name, this model features a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 260 hp and 320 nm of torque.
Last but not least the most powerful version of IS is IS 350 with 311 hp V6 engine. Engine displacement for this model is also 3.5-litre and maximum torque is approximately 380 nm. RWD version of IS 350 can run 0-100 kph in just 5.6 seconds. The number for AWD version which is slightly slower is 5.7 seconds. Note that, like IS 300, the AWD model comes with the 6-speed gearbox but RWD model uses an 8-speed automatic.
Despite this is a facelifted car and not a completely new one but Lexus made some modifications through the chassis. Lexus engineers focused on improving body rigidity. The c-pillars are also got reinforcement in order to reduce noise and vibration.
Lexus uses lighter parts on suspension system as well. For example stabilizer bar and new coil springs are 17% and 20% lighter than before. There are also new shock absorbers that can provide a more comfortable ride.
Lexus 2021 IS equipped with Lexus Safety System+. It concludes a camera and a radar with pedestrian and bicycle detection capability.
2021 IS benefits from other safety features like Pre-Collision System, Frontal Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking, Emergency Steering Assist, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Intelligent High Beams, Road Sign Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a Blind Spot Monitoring system.
Lexus IS facelift will go on sale at U.S dealerships this fall and pricing details will be announced later.