[TSX69]

2014 Lexus IS

Prototypes for the completely redesigned 2014 Lexus IS have been spotted in the U.S., and though they are heavily camouflaged a few key details about the upcoming sedan can be ascertained. We can clearly see elements of the car’s new spindle grille, which looks to be the most aggressive iteration of the corporate Lexus grille we’ve seen thus far.

The overall dimensions of the car haven’t changed much compared to the current IS, though the profile appears much more streamlined. The trailing edge of the roof has been masked with additional padding to hide the new shape, but we know from previous comments made by a Lexus exec that the design will be rather striking.

At the rear, we can see a sharp crease leading from the top of the fender to the trunk lid, as well as what could possibly be new inverted L-shaped tail-lamps inspired by the units on the LF-LC concept car. Beneath these is a pair of fairly conventional oval exhaust tips.

Though there are claims the 2014 IS will utilize a stretched version of Toyota’s rear-wheel drive platform underpinning the Scion FR-S and its Subaru BRZ twin, a more likely scenario would see the new IS ride on a shortened version of the GS’ platform. Giving credence to the latter was the sighting of early test mules for the new IS wearing a similar suspension setup to the one in the GS. This means that the new IS may feature adjustable damping and active rear steering, just like its bigger brother.

As for the powertrain lineup, a new four-cylinder engine is expected to replace the current IS 250’s 2.5-liter V-6, while the new IS 350 should pick up a version of the 306-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 found in the GS 350. Further down the track a new hybrid model will be launched, as will a high-performance IS F model, though it’s unclear at this point whether it will stick with a V-8 or downsize to a force-fed V-6.

Stay tuned as development progresses, and look for a debut of the 2014 Lexus IS at a major international auto show within the next 6 months or so.

 

[TSX69]

Pix

2014 Lexus IS Photos Hit the Web Before Detroit Debut

Lexus has released pictures of the new 2014 Lexus IS Sedan. The official release of the photos comes after a short leak earlier today. While no technical specs have been revealed by Lexus, the brand does tell us that the IS range will now include the IS 250, IS 350, IS 300h with Lexus Hybrid Drive and eventually the IS-F. The F Sport Package will be available across the full range.

Exterior Design
The all-new IS features the new Lexus spindle grille frontal design, awarding the compact sedan a combination of aggressive elegance, a more powerful road presence and a stronger brand identity.

The tight, sporting proportions of the body are formed by powerful character lines generated by the shape of the spindle grille, which passes through the base of the A-pillars then tightens up as it flows toward the rear. They clearly delineate the body from the cabin, emphasizing the wide flare of the wheel arches to give the new IS a broad, powerful stance.

In profile, the strong horizontal beltline shows off the large rear tires and its low center of gravity. The mass of the cabin itself is concentrated rearwards, visually applying weight to the rear tires to enhance the perception of traction.

A rising crease line flowing from the lower body, through the rear wheel arch and into the rear lamp clusters adds the sweeping elegance to the sedan’s sporty profile.

The exterior design incorporates a new, powerfully articulated headlamp cluster design with Lexus trademark, L-shaped Daytime Running Lights (DRL) located independently below.

F SPORT models are instantly recognized by an exclusive grille and front bumper design. The ‘waistline’ of the grille is higher than on standard models, increasing the area of the lower grille to make it capable of drawing in a larger volume of cooling air appropriate to sporty performance.

Interior Design
The new IS interior design creates a focused, ergonomically ideal environment from within, which the driver can fully exploit the new Lexus compact sedan’s superb driving dynamics.

The new IS’ increased width and longer wheelbase provide significantly improved rear seat comfort. The combination of the extended wheelbase and a thinner front seat design generates best-in-class knee room and improved accessibility. And new, 60:40 split/folding rear seats, provide expansive luggage capacity.

Cabin material, trim and finish refinement is complimented by the latest advances in HMI technology and a high quality analog clock with surface-emitting illumination. The center console incorporates Lexus-1st, electrostatic switches to control the air conditioning temperature with the touch of a finger.

Both the seat hip point and the angle of the new, LFA-inspired steering wheel have been lowered and steering reach adjustment increased, creating a more sporting driving position. F SPORT models feature the LFA’s innovative driver’s meter with a moving center ring.

F SPORT trim detailing includes a perforated leather finish to the steering wheel and shift knob, metal film 3-D-effect ornamentation, black seat stitching, and aluminium pedals and scuff plates.

- By: Omar Rana