The entry level IS, the '250' model, is a direct assault in the heart of the lowest rung of the entry-level segment. Though a
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| With variable valve timing and direct injection, the small IS 250 motor makes big power - 204 horses and a respectable 185 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press) |
V6, its small displacement places it right in line with the four-cylinder Acura TSX, Audi A4 2.0T, Volvo S40, Mercedes-Benz C230 and the base BMW 325i - the latter also a six-cylinder model. With variable valve timing and direct injection, this small motor makes big power - 204 horses and a respectable 185 lb-ft of torque. These technologies, as well as the IS' economical six-speed gearboxes and ultra slick body shape, should enable it to eke by with four-cylinder fuel consumption ratings in the city and on the highway. Of course, a near certain hybrid
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| At 306-hp the IS 350's engine topples BMW's 258-hp 330i and Benz's 272-hp C350, as well as the segment's current power-giant, the 300-hp Infiniti G35 Sport. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press) |
variant will take care of fuel conscious power mongers in the future.
At its launch, it was thought that Lexus would equip the more powerful IS with the same 3.0-liter V6 as found in the GS 300. That was, until its rivals had upped the ante with 260 to 270 horsepower alternatives, putting the little Lexus' output below par. Instead, like nemesis Infiniti, the IS 350 will speak softly but carry a big stick with the most powerful engine in its class, M and AMG variants aside. The IS 350 uses the same 3.5-liter unit as featured in the Toyota Avalon, but with 26 additional horses. At 306-hp it topples BMW's 258-hp 330i and Benz's 272-hp C350, as well as the segment's current power-giant, the 300-hp Infiniti G35 Sport.
