Lexus
Spotlight
Sound Generator
An inspired refinement that heightens the thrill of sports driving is a finely-tuned intake sound generator that creates and emotional note to compliment that exhilarating power. It boosts the sound pressure level of specific frequencies in the engine air intake, to introduce a distinctly sporty engine sound when you accelerate in the mid-to-high rpm ranges.
Aerodynamics
Careful attention devoted to aerodynamics contributes to the fuel-efficient performance and quite comfort of the cabin, even in high-speed driving. Aero stabilizing fins on the front doorframe covers and rear combination lamps contribute to handling stability and road tracking performance, while the aero stabilizing fins on the underbody covers help smooth airflow from front to rear under the car, further reducing drag.
Driving Dynamics
i. 3.5-liter V6 engine
The sophisticated 3.5-liter engine delivers both exceptional power and excellent fuel efficiency. It integrates advanced technologies that include a D-4S fuel injection system that features both direct injection into the cylinders and port injection to balance high power output with fuel efficiency, and Dual VVT-I which increases torque and output, and contributes to better fuel economy and reduced emissions.
ii. 2.5-liter V6 engine
The 2.5-liter engine featuring Dual VVT-I balances the delivery of free-flowing power for agile responsive sports driving, with excellent fuel efficiency. It incorporates a D-4 fuel injection system which injects highly-compressed fuel directly into the cylinders, further contributing to excellent engine efficiency in all rpm ranges.
Sporting Response
At the heart of sports driving and the interaction between the driver and the IS is the quick selection and changing of gears. With its astonishing linear acceleration, the 8–speed SPDS (Sport Direct Shift) blends sharp response times with the outstanding smoothness and efficiency of eight gears. For drivers it offers the refined characteristics of two exciting worlds: an 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth gear changes and exceptional ride comfort in normal driving. Together with and 8-speed manual transmission controlled by the shift lever or paddle shift switches on the steering wheel for the quick response and direct control of authentic sports driving. In D position with Sport/Sport S or Sport S+ Mode, G AI (Artificial Intelligence) - SHIFT selects the optimum gear and downshift pattern in response to input from a G force sensor. In M position, it enables gear holding, as well as full lock-up shifting from 2nd through 8th gears.
Agile Driving
A key component of the IS’s exhilarating sports driving performance is a suspension system that is both agile yet stable, inspiring confidence with superb grip ad excellent response to steering input. To achieve these demanding and very sports driver-friendly characteristics, each element of the double wishbone front suspension was fine-tuned, and the stabilizer refined to provide superb steering repose and feel, helping to reduce roll while cornering, and contributing to ride comfort. The multi-link rear suspension was fine-tuned to realize excellent grip performance and steering response, and coil spring and shock absorbers mounted separately to provide efficient shock absorption and excellent ride comfort. At the same time, its intelligent layout helps realize ample space in the luggage compartment.
High Rigidity
The unseen foundation of the IS’s direct and engaging sports handling, stability and ride comfort is high rigidity body structure. To achieve the balance of light weight with excellent rigidity that makes this sports performance possible, it required the adoption of innovative production techniques. They include the extensive use of body adhesive which enables the joining of panels over an extended area, and laser screw welding. In combination with the use of hot-stamped and high-tensile steel sheeting for reinforcement and critical components, the result is a lightweight chassis with outstanding rigidity and vibration damping characteristics. It provides an excellent foundation for the agile responsive handling and smooth ride that shape the IS’s sports driving pleasure.
Disc Brakes
High performance ventilated disc brake on all four wheels provide the quick, smooth and linear braking expected of a Lexus sports sedan. High friction brake pads further contribute to the excellent stopping power and braking feel. The use of lightweight aluminum for brake components helps to reduce weight, contributing to fuel efficiency.
Drive Mode Select
It integrates control of multiple systems so you can tune the performance of the IS to suit your driving style. Selecting Eco Mode changes the engine output, throttle control and air conditioning characteristics required for fuel-efficient eco-driving. Sport/Sport S Mode refines the powertrain settings and amount of EPS (Electric Power Steering) steering assist for excellent acceleration and sports steering feel. In addition, Sport S+ Mode refines the powertrain and chassis settings for dynamic sports driving.
2.0-liter direct injection turbocharged engine
This exciting engine combines a compact high-efficiency twin scroll turbocharger with an Atkinson Cycle engine with Dual VVT-iW to deliver an exhilarating driving performance and excellent fuel efficiency. To realize optimum combustion, the innovative D-4ST features both direct and port injectors. This helps generate high torque from low through to high rpm ranges, high level responsiveness, as well as enhancing fuel economy.*