Effing Sporty Yeah
The IS has always been seen as somewhat the Japanese answer to the 3 Series BMW. Now in it’s third generation, and now facelifted, the IS Turbo F SPORT retains their new 2.0 turbocharged four banger, ups the game with some kitting. But how does it fare on the road?
What we like:
Handling- quality build
- Lexus reliability
What we dislike:
Trying too hard with the styling
Up in the front of the compact sedan, lies a potent and smooth 2.0 four-banger with a turbocharger mounted to it, generally the same difference as the previous excellent power plant. The 241bhp is directed to the rear wheels via a direct shifting 8-speed transmission, which works its magic, by locking up the torque converter from second gear onwards, and not allowing the engine and box to slush about indecisively. Great for punching the car hard! As plush as the IS may be, this car is built to be driven hard. Century sprint for the IS is a flat 7 seconds. In comparison, the BMW 320i does this in 7.3 seconds.
Adding to the experience, the Adaptive Variable Suspension, firms things up under Sports mode. Even in Eco mode, the IS does not feel at all floaty. Steering feedback from the electric unit is pretty good, and very accurate. Perhaps not BMW-ish, but it is close.
On long drives, the IS is extremely comfortable, and with those seats in-front, you can really spend hours in them without feeling much fatigue.
When you are focused on the drive, the baby Lexus delivers a good balance between comfort and a sporty drive. The body styling does however give me the impression that they are trying too hard.
Conclusion
The rock-solid Lexus reliability is a very strong pulling factor though.
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