When they finally introduced a production model that combined the artfulness of L-Finesse and the realism imposed by mass-manufacturing processes,
it was the GS sedan. The GS left me somewhat flat, its size and softness negating the tension and hard-edged excitement of the concepts. Its bulging hood and flush bumpers and roofline were all too uniform and pillowy. And then came the new IS.
"From concept to execution, Lexus has created in the new IS series a luxurious sport sedan with a performance to thrill," said Stuart Payne, Lexus. "Driven by the L-Finesse design philosophy introduced earlier this year on the GS, Lexus has infused the IS series with a new sense of passion and innovation."
L-Finesse back with all its slashing, angled forms balanced against the curving
fluid surfaces coming together, marrying the cold, precise accomplishments of technology with the comfort and welcoming ambience of fine craftsmanship combined with soft, rich earth tones.
This marriage is perfectly demonstrated by the door handles and arm rests: the dominant switchback shape of the dark grey upper curves into the lower armrest, where a grip of curved aluminum rises up from behind to meet it and fill it, yet the grey curves back forward and into a small panel of dark wood that houses the power window switches, all set against the backdrop of cream-colored leather. Traditional meets modern in a door handle and arm rest.
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| "From concept to execution, Lexus has created in the new IS series a luxurious sport sedan with a performance to thrill," said Stuart Payne, Lexus. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press) |
"From concept to execution, Lexus has created in the new IS series a luxurious sport sedan with a performance to thrill," said Stuart Payne, Lexus. "Driven by the L-Finesse design philosophy introduced earlier this year on the GS, Lexus has infused the IS series with a new sense of passion and innovation."
L-Finesse back with all its slashing, angled forms balanced against the curving
 |
| This marriage of fine craftsmanship and technology is perfectlydemonstrated by the door handles and armrests: the dominant switchbackshape of the dark grey upper curves into the lower armrest. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press) |
This marriage is perfectly demonstrated by the door handles and arm rests: the dominant switchback shape of the dark grey upper curves into the lower armrest, where a grip of curved aluminum rises up from behind to meet it and fill it, yet the grey curves back forward and into a small panel of dark wood that houses the power window switches, all set against the backdrop of cream-colored leather. Traditional meets modern in a door handle and arm rest.