Canada will get three versions of the latest effort by Toyota's upscale Lexus division to attract fans of performance driving this fall, the IS sedan.
They are the IS 250 RWD, the IS 250 AWD, and the IS 350 RWD, all of which are attached to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
Stuart Payne, the director responsible for Lexus in Canada, said he ''expects the all-new 2006 IS sport sedans to capture the hearts and minds of a new generation of enthusiastic drivers,'' thanks to its ''striking new L-Finesse design, exceptional new power and performance, and all-wheel drive availability.''
In order to ''command attention in the extremely competitive entry luxury segment,'' says Payne, ''the new IS offers an expanded model range and outstanding performance and safety features.''
The IS 250 RWD (for rear-wheel-drive) and 250 AWD (for all-wheel-drive) will get an all-new, dual variable-valve timing, 2.5-litre V-6 that will deliver over 200 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. The RWD model will come with a six-speed manual, and the AWD will get the new six-speed automatic with driver-controllable sequential shift mode. The 0 to 96.5 kmh (60 mph) times for the RWD model will be in the upper seven seconds range, and in the low eights for the AWD.
The IS 350 RWD uses a 3.5-litre V-6 with dual variable valve-timing that delivers more that 300 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque through the same six-speed automatic as the IS 250 AWD gets. Payne says that configuration should result in a 0 to 96.5 kmh time of less than six seconds.
Advanced Lexus Vehicle Stability Control will be found on all models, says Payne, plus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system on the IS 350.
As well, there are all-new front and rear suspension, steering and brake systems.
Payne says the new Lexus IS ''is designed to be much more than a great looking car. The contemporary and dynamic design is intended to make the new IS one of the best-handling sport sedans in its segment, by delivering a spirited yet sophisticated and well-balanced driving experience for youthful car enthusiasts.''
On the exterior, says Payne, the IS has ''a sporty, streamlined styling, with sweeping lines and details that reference the recent Lexus LF series of concept vehicles. A wide stance and long wheelbase, together with tightly-drawn bodywork, lends a muscular and dynamic style.''
On the interior, the IS ''is designed with a seamless, vibrant flow to create a roomy atmosphere of clean, uncluttered luxury. The sporty cabin is complemented by intelligently designed displays and intuitive controls to make driving both simple and pleasurable. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic and available maple trim help create a luxurious, yet functional ambience.''
Comfort and luxury features on the 2006 Lexus IS include Smart Access keyless entry with push-button start (standard across the line), adaptive front lighting (optional across the line), a navigation system with back-up camera (not available on the 250 RWD and optional on the other two), and ventilated front seats (optional across the line).
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| 2006 Lexus IS 350 (photo: Lexus) |
Stuart Payne, the director responsible for Lexus in Canada, said he ''expects the all-new 2006 IS sport sedans to capture the hearts and minds of a new generation of enthusiastic drivers,'' thanks to its ''striking new L-Finesse design, exceptional new power and performance, and all-wheel drive availability.''
In order to ''command attention in the extremely competitive entry luxury segment,'' says Payne, ''the new IS offers an expanded model range and outstanding performance and safety features.''
The IS 250 RWD (for rear-wheel-drive) and 250 AWD (for all-wheel-drive) will get an all-new, dual variable-valve timing, 2.5-litre V-6 that will deliver over 200 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. The RWD model will come with a six-speed manual, and the AWD will get the new six-speed automatic with driver-controllable sequential shift mode. The 0 to 96.5 kmh (60 mph) times for the RWD model will be in the upper seven seconds range, and in the low eights for the AWD.
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| 2006 Lexus IS 350 (photo: Lexus) |
Advanced Lexus Vehicle Stability Control will be found on all models, says Payne, plus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system on the IS 350.
As well, there are all-new front and rear suspension, steering and brake systems.
Payne says the new Lexus IS ''is designed to be much more than a great looking car. The contemporary and dynamic design is intended to make the new IS one of the best-handling sport sedans in its segment, by delivering a spirited yet sophisticated and well-balanced driving experience for youthful car enthusiasts.''
On the exterior, says Payne, the IS has ''a sporty, streamlined styling, with sweeping lines and details that reference the recent Lexus LF series of concept vehicles. A wide stance and long wheelbase, together with tightly-drawn bodywork, lends a muscular and dynamic style.''
 |
| 2006 Lexus IS 350 (photo: Lexus) |
Comfort and luxury features on the 2006 Lexus IS include Smart Access keyless entry with push-button start (standard across the line), adaptive front lighting (optional across the line), a navigation system with back-up camera (not available on the 250 RWD and optional on the other two), and ventilated front seats (optional across the line).