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Lexus L-Finesse Design Analysis: IS is IT!

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Khatir Soltani
The base model gets a 2.5-liter V6 making 204-horsepower, with optional all-wheel drive. But most attention will be spent on the
"The passion and innovation continue with a thrilling driving experience, with IS delivering the powerful acceleration, precise braking and superb handling that will positively wow drivers," added Payne. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)
model's optional 300-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 driving the rear wheels, good enough for sub-6 second sprints to 100km/h.

To go back to Stuart's comments, "The passion and innovation continue with a thrilling driving experience, with IS delivering the powerful acceleration, precise braking and superb handling that will positively wow drivers."

The technology imbued in the IS doesn't stop with a 300-horsepower V6 or all wheel drive. There's the six-speed automatic with F1-style paddle shifters for manual actuation, reputed to be perform quicker shifts than anything less than Audi's DSG or Ferrari's F1 sequential-manual transmissions. The IS alsofeatures a full array of driver aids, all managed by a VDIM, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, which seamlessly orchestrates all additional braking, stability control and traction assist programs.

Another nifty aspect of the IS that Mr. Payne mentioned was its shape. As sexy as
As sexy as it is, the IS is also functional. Those sinuous slashes,curves combined with the rising beltline act to provide downforce,making the car itself a spoiler. (Photo: Justin Couture, AmericanAuto Press)
it is, it is also functional. Those sinuous slashes, curves combined with the rising beltline act to provide downforce, making the car itself a spoiler.

Amidst the hip music, eclectic food and beautiful people, I always kept the IS in open view. It was hard to get too far away from it, not only because Lexus had positioned to be the center of attention, but also because it just seemed to belong in the picture.

Driving excitement, luxurious comfort, aesthetic satisfaction, and envy in the eyes of so many other drivers as the IS easily pulls away from them. That's what many premium drivers covet.

As far as I'm concerned, the IS is Lexus' first step to becoming an object of desire.

Note: Check out more, larger photos in the gallery
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada