Its appearance is so striking, it pulls you in at a glance. The hood symbolizes latent strength, embracing the powerful heart of a 5.0-litre V8 engine beneath.A comprehensive focus on optimized aerodynamics, defines the engineering of the body. Exclusive design elements inside and out are infused with a structural beauty, created bysublimating sports functionality to a higher level, which complement the IS F’s thrilling performance.
The distinctive interior combines two tastes in a single space. The front seats give the sense of a sporty cockpit with the same instrument panel as the IS sedan, while the rear seats are aspacious two seater thanks to a luxurious design that envelops passengers. The resulting space resonates with the sensibility of the vehicle’s occupants, accommodating theawareness of the individual in each seat. When the hardtop is open, a vivid impression attracts the attention of people nearby.
Like a person changing clothes, the IS 300C expresses a completely different style depending on whether the hardtop is open or closed. The creative theme is dual mode style. A fashionable sculptedbeauty blossoms forth in both modes. In open mode, the belt lines trace a curve as they connect to the fairings, creating an elegant silhouette. In closed mode, the roofline and fairings combine toshape an integrated, sporty appearance. The electric retractable hardtop lets you choose freely between two styles: the sportiness of a coupe and the elegant freedom of a convertible.
Lexus’s distinctive “L-finesse” design philosophy was developed based on traditional Japanese values and unique Japanese advanced technology. “L” denotes “Leading-edge” while “finesse” signifies human sensibility and skill. Together they express an approach that seeks to combine these two elements in order to raise car design to the level of beauty and art. Based on this philosophy, Lexus pursued elegance with the hardtop open and sporty beauty with the hardtop closed.
The ample space of the cabin belies the easily maneuverable body size. Features such as a generous interior width, ample space between the front and rear seats, and a flat floor for the rear seats, contributed to the creation of a luxurious open space where five adults can relax in comfort. In addition, careful attention has been paid to quality and comfort throughout. To provide a high level of comfort, the texture of the seating surfaces was refined and detailed analysis carried out of the occupants’ posture when getting into the vehicle, and their movements as they sit down.
The design of the cockpit seeks to place everything within easy reach of the driver by combining “the pursuit of operation and lines of sight” with a “layout that supports a revolution in driving operation”. Lexus created a new cockpit concept designed to let the driver concentrate on driving with confidence and peace of mind. The cockpit is clearly separated into a display zone that presents information and an operation zone that allows the driver to access that information.
The spacious, high-quality interior also delivers the exceptional utility of an SUV. Thanks to a one-action function, folding down the seatback of either of the 60/40 split rear seats causes the corresponding seat cushion to drop down, further enlarging a luggage space that has been designed with ample width for optimum ease of use. On the left and right of the luggage space you’ll find remote operation levers for folding down the rear seatbacks with a single action, delivering a high level of utility.
The RX delivers the graceful dignity and intelligence of a luxury car even as it adopts a powerful stance. Lexus sought to create a bold and refined form that will stand out in various conditions. From the front, the low wide appearance belies its height as an SUV and creates a sense of being firmly planted on the ground. From the side, the shoulder lines and steeply raked quarter pillars create a new look of sculpted beauty. From the rear, the same aura of firmly planted strength of the front is tempered by a beautiful roof line that leaves a pleasing impression.
The L-finesse philosophy also informs the interior design. The first thing you’ll notice as you look around the interior is the substantial center cluster, which seems to be sculptured from a single block of material. Boldness and subtlety are skillfully expressed to symbolize the sophistication and advanced functionality of the interior. You’ll appreciate the large display positioned on top of and set back from the instrument panel, and the integrated flowing design from the display to the audio and air conditioning controls.
Relaxing in sumptuous leather seats, you’ll enjoy exquisite Lexus details like a beautifully finished central analogue clock. Built on the same line as the LS flagship saloon, the entire IS production line is overseen by Lexus ‘Takumi’ craftspeople. For a substantial increase in rear passenger legroom and a smooth ride, the car’s wheelbase has been extended by 70mm. The rear seats also fold 60:40 – ideal for transporting bulkier objects.
