Before the official launch of the refreshed Lexus IS in the country, we gave you the price list of the compact sedan. So by now, you know how much more its variants cost. You may be wondering next: What are the updates on the IS?
One look at the front fascia and it's obvious the IS received an exterior makeover. The spindle grille has bigger top and bottom proportions, and has integrated functional brake ducts. The front bumper has larger air intakes, and the headlights sport a new design, further accentuating the L-shaped (or check-mark-looking) DRL. The refreshed IS has two new paint job options available, Deep Blue Mica and Graphite Black Glass Flake
Inside, the prominent change is the 10.3-inch multimedia display, which is an upgrade from the old one's 7-inch display. The cabin has a sportier vibe, thanks to a redesigned speedometer and tachometer, and a meter hood with fresh stitching. Navigating with its GPS should be easier, with the remote touch interface now having a bigger palm rest and an additional Enter button.
Under the hood is the same 312hp 3.5-liter V6 found in the 2013 iteration.
"The new IS has better materials and a refreshed face, and is a more emotional Lexus," said Lexus Manila's sales director Spencer Yu at the unveiling of the compact sedan. "Globally, IS stands for 'Intelligent Sport.' For Lexus Manila, IS stands for 'increased sales.'"
The executive revealed that the third-generation IS has attracted 442 buyers since its launch. Will the sportier and "more emotional" version of the compact sedan entice more customers?
