Inside, the IS 300 is what we've come to expect from Lexus -- first-rate fit and finish, ultra-suede seats, leather trim and sporty gauges and controls. A 240-watt, eight-speaker audio system provides a nice alternative to listening to the purr of the engine, while front sport seats hold the back and behind tightly in place around corners.
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| Lexus engineers took the 'why improve on perfection' route with the luxury IS 300. (Photo: Lexus) |
For 2004, the IS 300 is available with a number of add-on packages to the base model. The Appearance package ($42,110) adds a number of interior and exterior features (i.e. power moonroof, 17-inch wheels and fog lamps); the Premium package ($44,860) adds to the Appearance package more nice add-ons (rear fog lamps, limited slip differential (LSD) and heated front seats; and the Special Edition ($39,170) adds performance related items (i.e. LSD and 17-inch wheels).
After driving the IS 300 for a week, and getting back to an earlier point, I'd speculate that Lexus engineers took the 'why improve on perfection' route with this vehicle. Its solid feel and stellar handling, plus superb build quality, more than make up for a rear seat that's a little tight. All things considered, particularly the price, it's difficult to find fault with this luxury sports sedan.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $37,775 - $47,270
- Body Type: 4-door sedan, steel unibody
- Layout: front engine, RWD
- Engine: 215 hp, 218 lb-ft torque, 3.0-L, 24-valve, DOHC I-6
- Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode (5-spd manual)
- Brakes: disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: 1,490 kg (3,285 lbs)
- Acceleration (0 - 100 km/h): 7.1 seconds
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume: 290 L (10.2 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 13.1 / 8.9 L/100 km (22 / 32 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 72/110,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Acura TSX, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac CTS, Jaguar X-Type, Infiniti G35, Lincoln LS, Mazda RX-8, Mercedes-Benz C Class, Nissan Maxima, Pontiac Grand Prix, Saab 9-3, VW Jetta, Volvo S60
- Web Site: www.lexus.ca
