TheLexusIS 350 has been completely redesigned for the latest model year, giving it a rich-looking cabin, a more finely tuned suspension and, most visibly – a bold new look.

Lexus IS 350 brings boldness to the road

Engine Capability

Carried over from its predecessor, the new Lexus IS 350 with its advanced, 3.5litre V6 petrol engine has been overhauled and now features D-4S direct and port injection, and Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) to both intake and exhaust camshafts, significantly enhancing engine performance and reducing fuel consumption.

The engine features a lightweight, die-cast aluminium cylinder block, and develops 228kW of power at 6400rpm and 375Nm of torque at 4800rpm. This makes the IS good for a 0-100km/h of 5.9 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 225km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 9.7/100km in the combined cycle.

All new South African-spec IS models are now equipped with the eight-speed, Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission from the Lexus IS F. The new Drive Mode Select system features up to five switchable driving modes — ECO, SNOW, NORMAL, SPORT/SPORT S and SPORT S+ (available on the F Sport model).

Interior Design Features

Stepping inside you are met with a low dashboard and a sloping centre console, a new multi-display screen with Remote Touch Interface, quilted driver’s seat, LFA (that incredible V10 supercar) inspired 3-spoke steering wheel, aimed at creating a snug, driver focused, and ergonomical interior environment.

The combination of the extended wheelbase and a thinner front seat design has resulted in best-in-class knee room and improved accessibility, while the new, 60:40 split/folding rear seats provide expansive luggage capacity. The increased width and longer wheelbase also provide a significant improvement in rear seat comfort.

In addition, the new Lexus IS 350 dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: a display zone and an operation zone. An upper display zone houses the 7-inch multi-display screen, while a lower operational zone allows access to system controls such as the remote touch interface and the electrostatic switches that control the air conditioning temperature with the swipe of a finger. Silver metallic trim detailing throughout the cabin is complimented by the latest advances in HMI technology and a high quality analogue clock with surface-emitting illumination.

The new interior design is available in a choice of three smooth leather colour schemes; Black, Ivory, and, Dark Rose, an F SPORT exclusive.

Exterior Design Features

The front of the Lexus IS 350 features an evolution of the spindle grille from the GS and LS models and a unique lighting arrangement that features separate LED strakes beneath irregularly-shaped headlights. A character line that rises from the side sills and is picked up by the taillights lends a unique element to the flanks, and the overall style.

The design has been made more three-dimensional, and its shape accentuated by a chrome plated frame and the muscular projection of horizontal bars (E and EX models) which follow the curvature of the vehicle front. Integral foglamps are housed within secondary sculpted side air intakes which control the flow of air out through the wheel arches to enhance aerodynamic performance.

The grille of the range-topping F Sport package has a higher ‘waistline’ than on the E and EX models, increasing the area of the lower section, with a special L-shaped mesh, winglets at the bottom corners of the deeper front bumper and special dark-coated Y-spoke 18-inch rims. The package is further equipped with 18-inch F Sport alloy wheels, upgraded brakes, a Sport+ mode that can adjust the variable ratio steering and adaptive suspension, an LFA-inspired gauge cluster and Power heated mirrors with memory and auto retractable function.

The Lexus IS 350 compact sedan is available in a range of nine exterior colours, of which three, Nova White, Electric Blue and Sonic Titanium, are exclusive to the F Sport model.

Standard and Optional Features

Standard kit on the Lexus IS 350 includes an electrochromatic mirror, fully integrated satellite navigation with automatic screen zoom and 3-D functionality, Lexus Park Assist with Back Guide Monitor (BGM), Park distance sensors, Rain-sensing wipers, 17-inch alloy wheels, full leather upholstery, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), Illuminated Entry System, Cruise Control, Dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, Eight-speaker Lexus display audio with audio input terminal, iPod integration and Bluetooth connectivity, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), ABS with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM).

New Lexus IS 350 – Price

As with the rest of the Lexus range, all models in the IS range are covered by a four-year/100 000 km warranty. The Lexus IS 350 E Model comes standard with the Lexus ‘Distance’ plan, the EX model gets ‘Distance Plan Plus’ and the F-Sport comes with a ‘Distance Plan Complete’ full maintenance plan.