Inside, quality is just as good, if not better than the GS. Even though this is a less
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| A large, touch-screen LCD display provides the main controls for climate and stereo functions. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
expensive model, the same high-end matte,soft-touch plastics, burnished metals, and glossy woods have been incorporated throughout so that it feels very expensive. Keyless entry with a push-button start button is standard, and a large, touch-screen LCD display provides the main controls for climate and stereo functions. One original IS hallmark, the chronograph instrument cluster, has been replaced by less confusing Optitron gauges. The doors shut with a satisfying 'thunk', and like the GS or LS, easily mute out the nearby rabble of on-lookers'.
Underneath the taut skin, and less I forget the oh-so-comfortable ventilated
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| Borrowed from the GS is its double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension setup. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press) |
front seats, is a shortened version of the Lexus GS platform. Overall, the decision to base the IS off a larger vehicle means that in itself, the new IS is a bigger vehicle. At 4,575 mm (180.1 inches) long, 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) wide and with a 2,730 mm (107.4 inch) long wheelbase, it's grown in all directions. It has also gained weight, now 1,567 kg (3,455 lbs) for the base RWD IS 250. Also borrowed from the GS is its double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension setup, which has been proven to provide an excellent foothold on the road when tested in the larger car. High-end electronic aids, such as electrical power steering, VSC stability control, and many others, will be available.
