Lexus IS Sedans Receive Technology Updates for 2010
· iPod®/USB Connectivity, Streaming Audio
Standard
· 2.5L V6 Engine Delivers 204 Horsepower
· 0-60 MPH in 5.3 Seconds With Legendary Lexus
Refinement
The well-equipped Lexus IS sedan receives technology updates for 2010
that build on the brand’s legacy of delivering state-of-art
technology. To further enhance the driving experience, iPod®/USB
connectivity, streaming audio via Bluetooth® and an integrated
satellite radio receiver are added to the standard Lexus Premium Sound
System. The optional Lexus Navigation system has been updated with Voice
Command casual-language voice recognition and Bluetooth®
phonebook download capability. The navigation system also features an
integrated XM NavTraffic®, XMWeather™ and XM®
Sports/Stocks receiver and comes with a complimentary 90-day trial
subscription. Finally, two all-new telematics products are available with a
complimentary one-year trial subscription. Lexus Enform™, which
automatically comes with Safety Connect™, is only available with
navigation-equipped vehicles. Safety Connect is also offered as a
standalone option.
In addition to technology enhancements, the optional Luxury Package on
the IS 250 AWD now includes front ventilated seats, perforated semi-aniline
leather trim and wood trim. This package features other luxury amenities
such as the Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), Bi-Xenon High-Intensity
Discharge (HID) headlamps and a power tilt-and-telescopic steering column.
Finally, Espresso Bird’s-Eye Maple replaces Golden Brown
Bird’s-Eye Maple for vehicles equipped with Ecru leather trim.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The IS sedan line offers four models: The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) IS
350, the rear-drive IS 250, an all-wheel drive IS 250, plus the high
performance RWD IS F. The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204
horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS
350's 3.5-liter V6 delivers 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM along with 277
lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm and can accelerate the car from zero-to-60
mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines use aluminum cylinder blocks and
heads and employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i),
which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
A direct-type fuel-injection system provides a cooling effect in the
cylinders, enabling the high compression needed to extract maximum energy
from the fuel. Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 differs
chiefly in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel
injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors
help produce a precise burn, increasing power and efficiency. A dual
exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds.
An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with
steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS 350 and the IS
250 all-wheel drive model. The rear-wheel drive IS 250 comes standard with
a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift
automatic offered as an option.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS is engineered to provide for a sporty driving experience.
Its double-wishbone front suspension features a high-mount upper control
arm, and the lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to
minimize vibration and harshness. The mult-ilink rear suspension emphasizes
precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions. High-strength steel
and aluminum suspension components reduce unsprung weight, helping the IS
remain stable on bumpy surfaces and improving ride comfort.
The sophisticated monotube shock-absorber design utilizes multi-leaf
linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound
springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort. Available
sport suspension with 18-inch wheels further enhances handling response.
The IS 250’s available all-wheel-drive system provides extra
traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center
differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power
distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to
the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car
and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to
driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control
strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver
activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate
sensors.
Combining input from a variety of sensors, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated
Management (VDIM) is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or
slide and help correct the situation with a combination of braking and
throttle control. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric
Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), the Anti-lock
Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force
Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled
throttle). The driver can disengage VSC via the "TRAC off" switch, which
can be desirable in certain situations. VDIM is standard on all IS sedan
models.
EPS helps to provide linear steering response, precise control and
excellent straight-line stability. The vehicle-speed-sensitive system
eliminates parasitic loss from a hydraulic pump, and reduces weight and
complexity.
The IS 250 and IS 350 feature a four-wheel disc brake system, with the
IS 350 equipped with larger ventilated front and rear rotors. In addition,
the IS 350's aluminum four-piston front calipers aid in heat dissipation
and stopping power and reduce unsprung weight.
Standard all-season performance tires measure 225/45R17 in front and
245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 AWD). Available as a
stand-alone option or as part of the Sport Package, summer 225/40R18 front
tires and 255/40R18 rear tires reward the enthusiast driver with even
higher cornering grip.
The 18-inch wheels can be equipped with available all-season tires on
rear-wheel drive models.
Safety/Security
Features
Passive-safety technology in the Lexus IS begins with a reinforced
passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants with front- and
rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used
for the front and outboard rear seats.
In addition to the advanced dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted
side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the IS
includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a
knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. Advanced
dual-stage front airbags are designed to deploy at one of two speeds,
according to impact force. The driver's front airbag also includes an extra
low stage designed to deploy based, in part, on the seat's position on its
track. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an
indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide overall
occupant protection.
The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision
damage. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses
millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set following
distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. PCS relies on the radar sensor to
detect obstacles in front of the car, and a PCS computer with sensor inputs
from vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate is designed to determine
whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS preemptively
retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that
increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the
pedal.
The available High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with Adaptive
Front-lighting System (AFS) helps to illuminate a curve as the driver
steers into it. The rear back-up camera, included with the optional
navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can
detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is
in reverse gear. To better communicate with other drivers, IS features
exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals.
The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic
sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers,
alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the
multi-information display within the speedometer. When any IS model is also
equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects
detected is shown in greater detail on that system's seven-inch touch
screen display.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
Standard amenities for the IS models include a leather-trimmed
interior with 10-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control
with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on IS 350),
power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings,
manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with
automatic up/down feature and jam protection, and an auto-dimming rear-view
mirror. The IS 250 AWD model in addition features standard heated
seats.
A multi-function switch allows the driver to set an adjustable speed
warning and an adjustable RPM shift light in the tachometer. Paddle
shifters function in D mode and multiple controls are designed to maximize
convenience for the driver. The SmartAccess keyless entry and
push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a
pocket or purse. The standard HomeLink® programmable garage door
opener also operates home security devices and other systems.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash
CD changer, 194 watts of total power, 13 speakers, iPod/USB connectivity,
Bluetooth hands free phone and music streaming, and an integrated satellite
radio receiver. Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound
levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Luxury
Options
A Premium Plus Package that is optional for all IS models includes
wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front
seats. The comprehensive "Sport" and "Luxury" option packages also include
three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors,
rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and
auto-dimming outside mirrors. Ventilated seats, wood trim and semi-aniline
leather are included in the available Luxury Package for the 2010 IS 250
AWD.
Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark
Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is
available in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation
system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel
playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels
provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion
(THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus
MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation
system's color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is
engaged.
Exterior
Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS
models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A
notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn
bodywork, give the IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style.
Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and "air
kick" tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
The sound of powerful V6 engines will resonate with driving
enthusiasts, yet all vehicle occupants will appreciate Lexus' ability to
minimize undesirable noises. A highly rigid body structure is the starting
point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed
noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals,
acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there. No
detail has been overlooked, down to the sound-absorbing sun visors.
Interior
Design
The IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays
and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges
and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim,
help create an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials
and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
Lexus offers a refreshing approach to designing controls as compared to
some competitors that are making controls more complex to learn and
distracting to use. One example is the multi-information display located
within the speedometer. This versatile feature integrates a trip computer
that provides outside temperature, driving range, average fuel consumption,
average fuel consumption since refueling (per tank), current fuel
consumption, and average speed. The display also includes an
oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient
location.
Additional features are added to the multi-information display depending
on selected options. When an IS model is equipped with Dynamic Radar Cruise
Control, the display can show a car icon with the selected following
distance. When equipped with Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can
show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the
bumpers.
F-Sport Performance
Accessories Available for IS
The IS 250 and IS 350
F-Sport Performance Accessories include performance enhancing parts such as
19-inch forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air
intake, exhaust systems and more. F-Sport Performance Accessories by Lexus
U.S.A. are engineered by Toyota Racing Development (TRD). When installed by
an authorized dealer, the accessories are fully warranted for 12 months or
for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.
Lexus Enform™ with
Safety Connect™
The Lexus
IS 250 and IS 350 offer an all-new telematics system, Lexus Enform with
Safety Connect, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial
subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped
with these features. Both the Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response
center operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.
Safety Connect, the cornerstone of the services, is available on both
non-navigation and navigation-equipped IS 250 and IS 350 and offers four
safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen
Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Enhanced Roadside
Assistance, which adds GPS data to the already included warranty-based
Lexus roadside service.
Lexus Enform, available only on navigation-equipped vehicles, includes
all of the Safety Connect features and builds upon them with the premium
services of Destination Assist and eDestination. Destination Assist agents
are available via the on-board cellular equipment and can help drivers find
a specific address, a business by name, or a type of business (e.g., gas
station, movie theater, etc.), and even Zagat®-rated
restaurants, and then send the coordinates to the navigation system for
routing. With eDestination, drivers can go online via LexusDrivers.com to
save and sort destinations in up to 20 folders, each holding as many as 10
destinations. Then drivers can send the locations—up to 200 at a
time—to their vehicle, where they will be available for download into
the navigation system. Online, drivers can create personalized location
names (e.g., “Favorite sushi,” “1 PM Appt,”
“Kids’ doc,” etc.) and even list notes about their saved
locations, all helping them see exactly the information they choose in the
vehicle.
Lexus Insider, a complimentary, opt-in service is also available without
a subscription on all Lexus Enform-equipped vehicles. This feature offers
in-vehicle audio casts that provide owners access to useful vehicle tips
and event information, and insights into exclusive owners' benefits –
all designed to further enhance the Lexus experience.
XM – Beyond
Radio
Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety
of innovative XM services. Integrated XM® satellite radio is
standard. Additionally, Lexus Enform vehicles feature XM
NavTraffic® and XM NavWeather™ services. XM
NavTraffic informs the driver of current traffic conditions with real-time
traffic displays. When traffic problems are detected the navigation system
alerts the driver so that the route can be adjusted. XM NavWeather provides
near real-time weather conditions as well as spoken and nav-screen
forecasts, both based on official National Weather Service data.
Lexus Enform also provides the platform for XM® Sports and
Stocks, which features in-vehicle updates on sports and stocks so drivers
can stay connected to their favorite teams and investment data while on the
road.
XM Sports provides game results and schedules for up to five personally
selected national league sports teams while XM Stocks supplies data for up
to 10 personally selected stocks. After inputting their selections, drivers
can access the reports through the navigation system, or by using the voice
command system, adding a new level of flexibility.
XM services require separate XM subscriptions. The XM Sports and Stocks
service is included with an XM® radio subscription. All XM
services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.
Warranty
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited
warranty with roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain
and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles.
Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of
mileage.