Lexus IS 200t Gets a New Look
A year after introducing new powertrains to the current IS, Lexus has amped up the design once again with a more dramatic version of the brand’s signature spindle grille and other enhancements. The makeover for the 2017 Lexus IS, however, goes well beyond the sheet metal. All versions now come with the Lexus Safety System as standard, which includes: Pre-Collision System; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Intelligent High Beam; and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert system is also available.
The entire front fascia of the IS has undergone a transformation, highlighted by new headlamps, larger air intakes in the front bumper, and a daring evolution of the Lexus spindle grille. The air intakes seem to flow off the fenders and frame a new grille that folds back at a higher point, changing its proportions and emphasizing a more road-hugging stance.
The reshaped hood appears more sculptural, with the raised center portion flowing rearward from the top of the spindle grille and standard LED headlamps. Beneath those, the
L-theme LED daytime running lights give a dramatic daytime glow. On the IS F SPORT, the grille features an exclusive three-dimensional F-mesh pattern, with jet-black metallic coating that is also used on the functional brake ducts.
Luxuries abound in the Lexus IS models, including standard NuLuxe trimmed seating, 10-way power front sport seats, a high-efficiency dual-zone automatic climate control system with touch-sensitive controls, power moon roof, and SmartAccess with push button start. The AWD models also add standard heated front seats.
Everywhere you look and touch in the 2017 Lexus IS, you’ll see or feel new details, including a new cup holder design; revised climate-control panel, analog clock, and steering wheel switches; and new interior colors. A redesigned speedometer and tachometer and new stitching atop the gauge hood enhances the cockpit’s sporty feel.
The 2017 IS offers two multimedia systems: standard high-resolution Lexus Display Audio with a 7-inch screen and 8-speaker audio or the optional navigation system, which features a new 10.3-inch screen. This screen offers a larger and clearer image of the various functions of the multimedia and Enform systems.
The IS 200t, available in rear-wheel drive form, features a 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with intercooler. This super-smooth powerplant produces 241 hp and quickly builds up a wide torque plateau of 258 lb.-ft. from 1,650-4,400 rpm. Variable Valve Timing intelligent – Wide allows the engine to switch between the Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles to maximize efficiency. The D-4ST fuel injection system combines a high-pressure direct fuel injection system with a low-pressure port-injection system.
The IS 200t comes equipped exclusively with the eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission that integrates advanced G-force Artificial Intelligence system to choose gears intuitively. Steering wheel paddle shifters are also available for those who prefer to shift for themselves.
Stop by Lexus of Highland Park to get a firsthand view of the IS 200t’s new look!
