2007 Lexus IS 350 (Photo: Stephane Quesnel, Auto123.com)
Moreover, Lexus equipped the IS 350 with a fully independent suspension with double wishbone, anti-dive and anti-squat geometry up front as well as multi-link control arms at the back. The drive is typically stable, but the grip in corners has been improved. Meanwhile, ride comfort is superior, even on damaged roads. Speaking of which, I can assure you that you can accelerate as fast as possible from 0 to 100 km/h on a lacklustre road without having the bad feeling that the car will fall apart. The electronics take over and everything remains quiet. Unbelievable!
When the time comes to slow down, the IS relies on power assisted disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA), vehicle stability control (VSC), traction control (TRAC) and all the other electronic nannies.
Fully equipped... almost
2007 Lexus IS 350 (Photo: Stephane Quesnel, Auto123.com)
The standard features of the Lexus IS 350 are comprehensive and diversified. Wrapped in P225/45R17 (front) and P245/45R17 (rear) tires, the 17-inch alloy wheels help to give a sporty look to this luxury car. I should mention that 18-inch wheels with high performance P225/40R18 (front) and P245/40R18 (rear) tires are also available. In order to always have the right amount of pressure and to enjoy optimal comfort and handling, a tire pressure monitoring system comes standard.
The owner of an IS 350 will also enjoy a host of luxury amenities, such as SmartAccess keyless entry, auto up/down power windows, power remote foldable heated exterior mirrors, an antitheft alarm and a premium audio system with MP3/WMA player, in-dash 6-disc CD changer and 13 speakers. I'll stop right here, otherwise it would take forever to list all the standard features of the Lexus IS 350.
There is nothing missing. Or is there? In my opinion, Lexus missed a great opportunity to impress BMW folks by offering an AWD IS 350 on top of the RWD model, as is the case with the IS 250. No doubt it would have been one of the best sports sedans on the market.
Key words: safety and warranty
2007 Lexus IS 350 (Photo: Stephane Quesnel, Auto123.com)
On the safety front, the IS 350 offers multiple airbags and curtain airbags for front and rear passengers. Bi-xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlights with adaptive front lighting system are available. The latter monitors steering angle and vehicle speed while turning and redirects headlights individually. Finally, every Lexus is protected by a comprehensive 4-year/80,000 km warranty. The powertrain is covered by a 6-year/110,000 km warranty.
