2006 Lexus IS Preview

Wristband Policy Now In Effect for Stunning New Lexus IS

In a nutshell, the all-new Lexus IS is what Lexus, as a brand, is becoming. Your eyes, like mine are probably in a state of disbelief: these

These curves, these shapes, this emotion - in a Lexus? (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

curves, these shapes, this emotion - in a Lexus? Yes, ladies and gents, this is L-Finesse, and it's just one of the many ways that this Japanese firm is redefining itself.

As the smallest, sportiest Lexus in the range, and slated to compete in the stiff entry-level executive market segment around the globe, as its predecessor attempted somewhat unsuccessfully to do, the 2006 update is ideal to lead an internal evolution, or should I say revolution, boldly showing the world the fundamental redirection in styling that will soon affect all Lexus models.

Diving

The IS will be available with two engines in North America, including 2.5-liter and a 3.5-liter six cylinder displacements. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

headlong into the heart of the matter, the IS will be available with two engines in North America, including 2.5-liter and a 3.5-liter six cylinder displacements, but there's a big difference in configuration this time around. Now the engines are "V" shaped rather than inline. Previously, the latter format was used because of its smoothness and refinement - great for a mid- or full-size vehicle with a long nose, but too long for more compact vehicles. The switch to a vee design allows for the larger displacements, as well as better positioning: the engine's more compact size allows it to be placed further back in the chassis for enhanced weight distribution - in this case a perfectly balanced 50:50. And despite its V6 configuration, Lexus' "Pursuit of Perfection" ensures that the engine maintains the extra smooth qualities of the inline-six it replaces.