Road & Track is reporting that the next-generation Lexus IS will debut in 2013 as a 2014 model:
The reason, according to our sources, is that work has started on a new 4-door sedan based on the FT-86 platform.
…this car will be built atop a stretched version of the FT-86 chassis. Toyota boss Akio Toyoda is keen on spicing up Toyota’s image into one with a more powerful emphasis on sport, so we hear the next IS will look and perform sportier than the current model.
…the IS will be powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder and/or a 3.6-liter flat-6. The 2014 Lexus IS F will continue with a high-powered V-8 that’ll make the luxury sedan a presence on the racetrack.
It’s hard to know if there’s even a shred of truth in this rumor, especially when the accompanying photochop by Japan mag Best Car is wearing a Toyota badge.
2013 might seem like a long wait, but given the super update this year, it’s altogether possible. It’s more the two engine options that bring the biggest doubt, as they would be a pretty drastic change from the existing models — never mind that the safe-bet IS Hybrid isn’t mentioned at all.
[Source: Road & Track] (Thanks Jason R.!)
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