Lexus IS 250C at 2008 Paris Auto Show

One of Lexus’ premieres for the Paris Motor Show was the new Lexus IS 250C. We really loved the IS range ever since it was introduced, it’s a really tough competitor for the German cars, and the IS 250C sounds and looks very promising also, when it will debut, next summer. Like its name says, the IS 250C is powered by the 2.5 liter V6 engine that delivers 208 hp (153 kW) mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. According to Lexus, the lightweight folding aluminium roof is the world’s fastest three-part roof, with an opening time of just 20 seconds.

Of course, extra attention was given to the car’s aerodynamics and safety, especially when running with the top open. By fitting the car with a steeply raked windscreen, ultra-smooth cabin profile, aerodynamically efficient, “duck-tail” rear styling featuring “airkick” effect, rear tail lamp clusters, and a set of aerodynamic under-body covers, the IS 250C’s drag coefficient is just 0.29 (0.27Cd rating for the sedan version).

© Source: autounleashed
We need your comments below >>

2009 Lexus IS first official pics

Though no official press release has been made, here are the first photos of the facelift for the Lexus IS, that will make its world debut at the Paris Motor Show.

Like we said, there’s no official info so far, but we can see that the car has a restyled front grille, tail lamp crystals featuring L-shaped back-up lights, exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals and new designs for the alloy wheels, that might also come in 17 and 18 inch sizes. Rumors also say that the car will get new exterior colors and new Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) stability control system.

© Source: autounleashed
We need your comments below >>

Lexus IS facelifthybrid spy photos

European photographers took these photos of what appears to be a heavily disguised Lexus IS undergoing speed tests at the German Nürburgring. Although similar in shape to the current model, there are hints of differentiation, the current IS series, which in Australia only includes the IS250, has been on the market since late 2005 and should be getting ready for a facelift.

Given the heavy disguise it’s hard to tell whether the headlight and taillamps have changed, but the bulge on the bonnet leads us to believe the actual prototype is a test mule for an IS variant featuring Lexus’ Hybrid Synergy Drive.

The BMW M3 and Audi RS4 competitor, the Lexus IS-F should be arriving soon. The IS-F will pack a 5.0-litre V8, good for around 300kW. It will put its power down through the rear wheels using an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Lexus will also bring the IS coupe/convertible to Australia later in the year.

Toyota’s luxury arm is also working on a smaller and cheaper Lexus model to compete in the bottom end of the luxury market (against the 1-series). However that won’t be here for a few more years.

© Source: caradvice
We need your comments below >>