IS 250/220d
INTRODUCTION
The next generation IS is the latest expression of the Lexus marque in the areas of design performance and refinement. The numerous NVH reduction measures reward the new Lexus IS with a particularly quiet cabin environment to the extent that the IS diesel is superior in this regard to many petrol-fuelled powerplants.
175mm longer and 75mm wider than its predecessor, the new IS saloon is the second road-going representation of L-finesse, the new Lexus design philosophy, after the GS. A design rationale deeply rooted in Japanese culture, L-finesse informs every aspect of the next generation IS and, taken with the GS, provides a strong family feel, yet with a clear model identity. The vertically-latticed grille identifies the new IS as a sporting member of the Lexus marque; its wide track and prominent wheel arches combine with short front and rear overhangs to give the car a low centre of gravity and a broad, robust appearance.
The next generation Lexus IS is offered with a choice of two powerplants: a 153 kW/208 DIN hp, 2.5 litre direct injection V6 petrol engine, and Lexus’s first diesel, a 4-cylinder, 130 kW/177DIN hp, 2.2 litre state-of-the-art unit, which will dramatically strengthen Lexus’s position within this highly competitive market segment.
Both engines are available with a new six speed manual gearbox and the petrol is also offered with a new six-speed automatic featuring sequential paddle shift control. Following usual Lexus practice, the new IS has class-leading levels of equipment fitted as standard. This class-leading equipment level is supplemented by high technology options. Many of these standard and optional equipment items are new to market or to segment and are not offered by our competitors. These include Europe’s most advanced navigation system, and a unique Mark Levinson? Surround System, for the on-board reproduction of 5.1 home theatre DVD/CD for video/audio entertainment, as well as many new safety technologies.
The new IS has been built with the express aim of achieving class-leading safety. It offers a host of passive and active safety features including Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system (VDIM), Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), dual knee airbags and the world’s first twin chamber passenger airbag.
“The new IS will put it up to the long-established segment leaders. Its smooth flowing lines give a clue as to how different a driving experience it will provide. It will bring the refinement associated with bigger luxury cars in this class, and will, we believe, be quite a contrast to the vehicles already in the market” Tom Moore, Managing Director, Tom Hogan Lexus Limerick comments.
“This is a grown-up vehicle and will, with its dynamic new 2.5 litre petrol and 2.2 litre diesel engines, appeal to a wide audience offering a new style and level of performance compared to the cars usually purchased in this segment.”
NEW IS AT A GLANCE
- Second production model created under L-finesse, the unique Lexus design philosophy, further developing the Lexus identity
- New, 208 DIN hp direct injection V6 petrol engine featuring Dual VVT-I to deliver high fuel efficiency
- First-ever Lexus diesel engine: an aluminium-block, 177 DIN hp 2.2 litre common rail unit offering class-leading refinement
- Longer (+175mm), wider (+75mm) and featuring a 20% stiffer bodyshell
- Extensive NVH reduction measures for ultra-quiet cabin acoustics
- Double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension to optimize driving dynamics and ride quality
- New 6-speed manual gearbox and optional 6-speed automatic transmission (with petrol) featuring sequential manual paddle-shift mode
- Advanced safety features: Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system (VDIM), Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), dual knee airbags and the world’s first twin chamber passenger airbag
- Minimal protrusion bodywork with substantial reduction in exterior component gaps – in some cases just 0.35mm
- One of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in its segment with a drag coefficient of just 0.27
- 3rd generation keyless Smart Entry and Start System with programmable Smart Key
- New Mark Levinson Surround System and next generation Lexus Navigation System combine to offer home theatre quality DVD/CD viewing and enjoyment
DESIGN
Following the next generation GS, the new Lexus IS saloon is the second road-going representation of L-finesse, the unique Lexus design philosophy. Deeply rooted in Japanese culture, this design rationale informs every aspect of the new IS, developing strong visual synergies between the interior and exterior design of the new Lexus.
Combining a wide track and prominent wheel arches with short front and rear overhangs to give the car a low centre of gravity and a broad, muscular stance, the next generation IS marries the elegance of powerful, sweeping coachwork lines with an intriguing contrast of convex and concave surfacing.
The resultant purity of overall form is complemented by a substantial reduction in exterior component gaps – in some cases to just 0.35mm. On board, a stunning new interior has evolved from the further combination of convex and concave surfaces. Rigorous fit and finish management has reduced, and in some cases eradicated altogether, gaps between interior components, creating an environment of clean, uncluttered luxury unprecedented in this class. Careful consideration has gone into the modeling and spacing of individual components, with a detailed coordination of new, LED interior illumination, chrome highlighting to key touch surfaces such as the steering wheel mounted gear shift paddles, and a bird’s eye maple wood centre console finished by Yamaha’s piano manufacturing craftsmen.
Rear seat legroom has been significantly improved through the addition of 60mm to the wheelbase of the new Lexus, increasing the distance between front and rear passengers to a class-leading 881mm. Seating upholstery is available in a choice of fabric, sports fabric and perforated,
semi-aniline leather, double-stitched to unprecedented tolerances.
POWERTRAINS & PERFORMANCE
The next generation Lexus IS is offered with a choice of two powerplants: a highly efficient new 153kW/208 DIN hp, 2.5 litre direct injection V6 petrol engine, and Lexus’s first diesel, a 4-cylinder, 130kW/177 DIN hp, 2.2 litre state-of-the-art unit which will introduce diesel buyers to Lexus levels of refinement. 2.5 litre v6 petrol
The new, chain-driven double overhead camshaft, 24 valve, 2,500cc V6 petrol engine features a compact design and reduced weight (180kg service mass).Being no heavier than the current IS 2.0 litre powerplant, the new 2.5 litre V6 employs an aluminium die-cast cylinder block and intake manifold, and a resin-made intake chamber. The overall engine assembly is made lighter and more
compact through the installation of the water and oil pumps within the chain cover. Featuring direct injection technology which affords this unit the highest injection pressure amongst petrol engines (130 bar), it develops 153kW / 208 DIN hp at 6400rpm and a class-leading 252Nm / 186lb.ft of torque at 4,800rpm, awarding the new Lexus IS 250 performance figures of 0-100km/h in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 230km/h. The highly sophisticated 2.5 litre unit returns 9.8 l/100km (28.8mpg) in the combined cycle (9.1 l/100km (31.0mpg) for models equipped with automatic transmission.)
The adoption of Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) to both intake and exhaust camshafts also significantly improves engine performance. Able to control intake and exhaust camshafts through angles of up to 40 and 35 degrees respectively, Dual VVT-i allows a greater intake/exhaust valve overlap, benefiting both low-end and top-end torque as well as contributing to a reduction in exhaust emissions.
2.2 litre diesel
Fulfilling the most exacting standards of Lexus refinement, the new 4-cylinder, 2,231cc common-rail diesel unit features an aluminium block to optimise weight saving and driving dynamics in the new IS 220d. The engine includes several unique design features and, as befitting the marque, particular attention has been paid to reducing noise and vibration to levels unprecedented within a diesel engine.
The new Lexus diesel generates 130kW / 177 DIN hp at 3,600rpm and an impressive 400Nm / 295lb.ft of torque between 2,000 and 2,600rpm. The IS 220d will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 217km/h, yet return fuel consumption figures of just 6.3 l/100km
(44.8mpg) in the combined cycle.
Integrating 3rd generation common-rail technology with piezoelectric injectors, the new Lexus powerplant combines an exceptionally high injection pressure of 1,800 bar with one of the
world’s lowest diesel engine compression ratios of 15.8:1. Via high-flow, high-speed injectors featuring 10 holes with a 0.13mm nozzle diameter, the common rail system can produce up to 5 separate injections per cycle.
The new Lexus diesel features several additional anti-noise and vibration measures. The adoption of a balancer shaft within the unit offers significant reduction in engine ‘booming’ noise between 2,000 and 3,000rpm. A urethane engine cover and three-layer heat insulator combine with urethane spacers on the upper surface of the inlet manifold, oil cooler rear side and oil pan rear to further curtail engine noise. A variable backpressure exhaust system minimises exhaust sound at low speeds, and incorporates twin ball joints to minimise vibration and cabin noise intrusion.
These numerous NVH reduction measures reward the new Lexus IS 220d with a particularly quiet cabin environment, delivering an Articulation Index - measured through the use of random words in conversation - superior to that of many petrol fuelled powerplants.
The new 2.2 litre diesel is further equipped with Lexus Clean Diesel Technology, a package of innovative features that aim to reduce emissions substantially below EURO IV requirement levels. Key to this technology is the Diesel Particulate Nox Reduction (DPNR) 4-way catalytic converter - the only catalyst in the world that reduces NOX and PM (particulate matter). As a result, the Lexus IS 220d is one of the cleanest diesel cars on the market.
Transmissions
Both engines are mated to a newly-developed, 6-speed manual transmission. A shorter differential gear ratio (3.2 versus 2.47) is fitted as standard to the new IS 220d in Sport specification, for an average 30% improved in-gear acceleration. And the new V6 unit may be mated to an optional
6-speed automatic transmission featuring sequential, steering-mounted, paddle-shift control.
BODY & CHASSIS
The new Lexus IS is 175mm longer and 75mm wider than its predecessor, with a track width increased by 40mm to the front and 50mm to the rear. A body shell of 20% higher torsional stiffness combines with an aluminium bonnet, suspension members and powerplants to reduce overall unsprung weight and yaw moment.
With a drag coefficient of just 0.27, the new Lexus IS is one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in its segment. Smooth, minimal panel-gap bodywork with triple-seal doors and a flush mounted windscreen combine with the use of numerous aerodynamic under-body elements to promote high-speed stability and minimal wind noise, whilst reducing fuel consumption. Comprehensive anti-noise vibration and harshness (NVH) measures, including a floor carpet featuring an absorption-insulation-absorption material sandwich to minimize road noise penetration, ensure ultra-quiet cabin acoustics.
Front suspension
The front, high-mount, double wishbone suspension system combines lightweight, forged aluminium knuckles with a high tensile steel lower arm and a hollow anti-roll bar to reduce unsprung weight. The new suspension configuration features a 35% higher camber angle than that of the current IS, which
improves steering wheel centring, enhances negative camber to the outside wheel when cornering, and improves steering feedback. An 18% higher kingpin angle improves straight line stability, a 10% increase in caster trail promotes a more stable steering feel, and a 22% reduction in roll centre height provides improved cornering stability with reduced body roll. In addition, new, forward-mounted power steering gear allied to low toe variation along the suspension stroke promote a more linear yaw response, precise steering control and excellent straight line, high-speed stability.
Rear suspension
To the rear, an advanced multilink set-up with toe control arms and an aluminium rear axle carrier combines stiffer suspension component materials with a reduction in unsprung mass for excellent ride comfort with high cornering stability. The adoption of a double-linked upper arm and integrated bearings and hub combines optimised geometry and high rigidity with significant weight reduction. The utilisation of a multilink configuration facilitates the optimum balance of handling, stability and ride comfort: the upper arms contribute to a reduction in upward spring motion, the mid-arm contributes to reduced body roll, and the lower arm provides an improved anti-lift / anti-squat ratio.
Shock absorbers
The next generation Lexus IS features new, high-performance, monotube shock absorbers. The new monotube configuration also dissipates heat more efficiently, resulting in better control and a reduction in high-use fade. Large diameter, liquid-filled bushing to the lower suspension arm reduces the transmission of vibration, and rebound springs are incorporated in all four shock absorbers to control roll angle in extreme situations.
The IS 250 Sport is equipped with a bespoke suspension configuration featuring stiffer spring and damper settings that also decrease ground clearance by 10mm. This further reduces body roll and improves handling characteristics.
Steering
The IS also features a brand new, speed-sensitive, Electrically assisted Power Steering (EPS) system. Key steering parameters have been amended from the current IS model range to create a
quicker, more direct steering feel. The new Lexus IS offers the highest content of sophisticated, safety technology available in this segment, including Lexus’s state-of-the-art Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), on the IS 220d, and Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), on the IS 250 A/T, as well as the world’s first twin-chamber passenger airbag.
The new Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), optionally available on the IS 250 A/T, uses a millimetre-wave radar sensor to detect obstacles in front of the car and to determine, in advance, whether a collision is unavoidable. If the system determines that this is the case, it will pre-emptively activate the Pre-Crash front seatbelt pretensioners and simultaneously prepare the emergency Brake Assist system for optimum efficiency once the brake pedal is depressed. Complementary to the PCS system, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) can automatically match the speed of the vehicle in front and, once the road ahead is clear, accelerate back up to the selected cruising speed.
The Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system, standard on the IS 220d Sport (all new IS models feature Vehicle Stability Control), employs brake pressure, steering angle, torque steer, yaw rate, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, and vehicle speed sensors to fully integrate the new IS’s Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Traction Control (TRC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems. VDIM has been designed to activate before the limit of the vehicle’s performance envelope has been reached, not only greatly improving active safety, but also promoting smoother ‘on-the-limit’ vehicle behaviour through unobtrusive intervention and, hence, a more rewarding drive. Within a highly rigid, extensively reinforced body structure, 10 airbags are fitted as standard, including dual front knee airbags and the world’s first twin-chamber front passenger airbag, which offers improved protection to sensitive facial areas. The new IS further benefits from second generation WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) front seats and optional swivelling, bi-xenon, Intelligent Adaptive Front Lighting (I-AFS) for both low and high-beam, featuring 4-bulb high beam lamps.
SAFETY
With a choice of three equipment specification grades and several new, cutting-edge technologies, the next generation IS offers high levels of interior luxury and practical innovation. The entry level model boasts a comprehensive standard equipment package including a Smart Entry and Start System; cruise control; dual front and knee airbags; side airbags and curtain shield airbags; dual zone electronic climate control; electric windows and electric heated door mirrors; windscreen
de-icing; sequentially illuminated LED entry lighting; Optitron instrument lighting; a 13 speaker stereo system with a 6-CD in-dash autochanger; and 16” alloy wheels.
The Executive specification further includes full leather, power-adjusted, heated and ventilated front seats, 17” alloy wheels and optional Premium Pack which combines a host of additional luxury and technical features. Additional standard equipment on the Sport specification include sport fabric; power adjusted, heated and ventilated front seats; electrochromatic interior and door mirrors;
bi-xenon I-AFS headlamps;
Lexus Parking
Assist Sensors (front and rear); and 18” alloy wheels. Note also that the petrol sport grade features different suspension (see Body and Chassis) and that the diesel sport grade features a higher final drive ratio for 30% faster in gear acceleration.
INTERIOR REFINEMENT & TECHNOLOGY
This class-leading range of standard equipment may be further supplemented by numerous, unique, high technology options, including the Lexus Multimedia and Navigation System. It comprises the new Lexus Navigation System, the Mark Levinson? Premium Surround Sound System and the Lexus Parking Assist Monitor.
The new Lexus navigation system, premiered in the Lexus IS, features 3-language voice activation, and combines 7”, 32,000 colour range, LCD touch screen technology with voice guidance in 10 languages. Bluetooth connectivity is integrated into the system for hands-free mobile phone
operation. For those wanting the best in automotive infotainment, a new Mark Levinson? Premium Surround Sound System, unique to the Lexus IS range, features a 10 channel, 300-Watt RMS (Root Mean Square) amplifier and 14 speakers, including the company’s first use of a 200mm inverted subwoofer. It utilises Mark Levinson? Surround (MLS) audio software to reproduce ‘discrete’ 5.1 sound, via a surround sound 7.1 channel speaker topography, from both stereo CD and 5-channel DVD source material. The Lexus Parking Assist Monitor features a video camera mounted in the rear number plate surround that projects a full colour rear view of the surroundings. Even greater manoeuvring accuracy is promoted by screen-generated guidelines, which indicate the prospective path of the vehicle based on the current steering position. “The launch of the IS is the most strategically important Lexus new car launch this year and to celebrate Tom Hogan Lexus would like to invite all customers old and new to come along to the Tom Hogan Lexus centre, Dock Road, Limerick on Friday 4th & Saturday 5th November to view this magnificent vehicle.” Tom More, Managing Director of Tom Hogan Lexus.
Tom Hogan Lexus Tom Hogan Lexus
Dock Road Ballybrit
Limerick Galway
T: 061 225 995 T: 091 747047
E: infolimericklexus@tomhoganmotors.ie? E: infogalwaylexus@tomhoganmotors.ie
