Next-Generation Lexus IS Rumors

Posted by Kevin on January 24th, 2012

Taiwanese website Autonet is speculating that the next-generation Lexus IS will debut at the Los Angeles auto show this year, ahead of a mid-2013 release — here’s a summary of what else they had to say:

The existing 2.5L & 3.5L V6 engines will be carried over and mated with an eight-speed transmission.
A 2.5L, four-cylinder hybrid will also be offered as the IS 300h (which would line up with an Australian trademark discovered late last year).
The IS will be offered as a sedan, convertible, and a wagon.

It all sounds reasonable enough to be true — considering the new GS, it was unlikely that the next-generation IS would debut with new engines, and I would say an IS hybrid is a virtual certainty. In fact, if it wasn’t for the inclusion of a project code (400A) and exact measurements (4590 × 1795 × 1430mm), I would just chalk this rumor up to common sense speculation.

(One thing that’s missing is any mention of a coupe, which is something the IS range needs more than any other variant — beyond updating the existing models, an IS coupe should be a top priority for the Lexus lineup.)

[Source: Autonet (translated) via lexusforum.nl]

Comments

B
BlackDynamiteOnline
January 24, 2012

This is monkey crap. 1. Mark Templin just told AN that ALL FOUR Lexus sedans would be redone THIS YEAR 2. Let's say Templin didn't say that, or was misquoted. If you were to release the IS mid-2013, why would you launch it at LA? There is the NAIAS, Chicago, and New York before it's launch! That doesn't make any sense. 3. The ES is widely held to be coming out in mid-2013, and to be shown in production form in New York, the last major show before the summer. THAT'S where Lexus would make a mid-year release, not LA! 4. The IS is due for a redesign BEFORE the LS, so why would it be delayed until after, especially with carry-over engines? This is how it's going down: Lexus GS (February) Lexus GS Hybrid (April) Lexus ES (June) Lexus IS (October) Lexus LS (Detroit 2013) BD

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

IS coupe wont happen. No one need's em. Lexus dont earn any money on pleasing comment-kids like yourself. "Wagons" are extremely popular in Europe. BMW, Merc and Audi all have wagons of all theyre top selling cars.

T
ThaDRD
January 25, 2012

Wagons are not popular in the US. Furthermore, every single competitor offers a coupe variant in this class. Infiniti G35/37, Cadillac CTS, BMW 3 series, and Benz C-class all offer real hardtop coupes (not including convertibles here).

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

"Wagons" are - as I said - popular in Europe. That's why BMW, Audi and Mercedes are offering them. Lexus needs to sell cars in Europe too. Lexus are loosing sales by not having a wagon. Hence the IS will come as a wagon! I dont see BMW 3-series coupes that much. People dont see a reason for buying coupe versions of a car thats almost the same with four doors. They wont make any profit on coupes, hence Lexus probably wont make one.

T
ThaDRD
January 25, 2012

Coupes are popular in the US, just look at the Mustang and Camaro. If coupes weren't profitable none of the high-line companies like BMW, Mercedes, Infiniti, and Caddy would bother building them.

B
BlackDynamiteOnline
January 25, 2012

Son, if the SportCross was selling, it still would be. BMW and Infiniti are having a ball selling coupes. Especially under $40k, coupes are good sellers.BD

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

Show me some numbers, son, showing sedan based coupes selling as much as you are implying. Even Alfa Romeo, an odd Italian "sporty" car maker can sell a bunch of "wagons", and so can Lexus. The SportX came to on the end of the 1st gen IS' career. That's why it didnt sell in huge numbers. Lexus is now more orientated towards Europe, and will have a "wagon" to compete against BMW, Audi etc. who all have "wagons". No doubt.

B
BlackDynamiteOnline
January 25, 2012

Look up any of the last 7 years for the Infiniti G, son. Do your homework BD

K
krew
January 25, 2012

Let's tone down the "son" talk -- I'm very interested in this topic, and don't want it to devolve into name-calling and oneupmanship.

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

No, not quite. BMW, Mercedes & Audi offer wagons - that are stealing marketshare from Lexus in huge numbers - so Lexus should have one. Coupes sell in a very limited amount, so it doesnt really matter.

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

THANK YOU!!!

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

THANK YOU!!!

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

THANK YOU!!!

K
krew
January 25, 2012

Let me understand your logic: * BMW, Mercedes & Audi offer wagons, so Lexus should have one. * BMW, Mercedes & Audi offer coupes, but Lexus shouldn't have one. Do I have that about right?

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

K
krew
January 25, 2012

I liked your technique of using used cars as an indicator, so I did a search on autotrader.com for 2009 BMW 3-series sedans vs. coupes: * Sedans: 3,426 * Coupes: 792 From these numbers, I'd say coupes represent a decent market in the USA.

K
krew
January 25, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

PLEASE!,In respect of every body else on this forum,please stop with the sly comments to others.I came over to this forum a year ago,because I got fed up with all the drama & it went to the point that no body was discussing the subject that was supposed to be discussed,but instead,just constantly changing the subject & trying to bash one another.I don't believe there are any "kids" on here discussing Lexus'.Now,if I can excuse my self,I have my own 3 "CHILDREN" to tend to.(sorry,I just find the term "kids" degrading.Anyway,let's get back to Lexus stuff...Shall we?)

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

J
jruhi4
January 25, 2012

BlackDynamiteOnline: Your timeline for the sedan releases seems feasible, yet I can't help but wonder if the IS and LS should be flip-flopped (LS at either Pebble Beach in August, Paris in September or Los Angeles in November and IS in Detroit 2013). My rationale: LS has received only a single mid-cycle refresh and no talk of a delay, whereas IS has received two mid-cycle refreshes and talk of a 1-year delay versus original plans. Thus, IS can more logically stand to be released after LS. I'm also skeptical of the Taiwanese article's claims that the 8-speed automatic/V6 combo will debut in IS. Wouldn't it have made more sense to release it first in the pricier 4th-gen GS next month? Or even in a possible LS 350? Finally, I'd fully expect to see an IS Coupe, and I still believe we'll see an IS Wagon, comments here notwithstanding. just don't expect all 4 bodystyles to be released together all at once. I'd expect a 6 month-to-1 year spread between bodystyle releases, like BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G.

B
BlackDynamiteOnline
January 25, 2012

I'm going by what Mark Templin said a couple of weeks ago in Automotive News. I'd take his word over.......everybody's. He said everything will be done by year's end. The NAIAS is still the country's biggest car show, and where the LS is always introduced, dating back to the original 1990 LS400. The IS came to market before the LS, so I don't see why it would be redesigned after it, with largely carry-over engines. Lexus wouldn't have the IS be the last design. They'd do everything else, then save the LS for last, as the flagship. Plus the S-Class is expected this fall, so a new LS right after that would steal some of Mercedes' thunder..... BD

K
krew
January 25, 2012

I believe you're referring to this article: http://lexusenthusiast.com/2012/01/17/lexus-executives-discuss-possible-new-models/ And this quote specifically:

Lexus will launch nine new or updated models this year, plus three F-Sport variations, Templin said. The rollout includes the redesign of four of Lexus’ core sedan lines, starting with the GS 350 and GS 450h sport sedans arriving in February, followed by reworked versions of the ES 350, IS 250 and 350 and LS 460 and 600h. The LX SUV will also be refreshed this year.

As much as I'd like this to be verifiably true, the only thing Templin said directly was that "Lexus will launch nine new or updated models this year, plus three F-Sport variations", the other part is pure speculation from the writer. There's no way that Lexus would confirm future plans to any publication, it goes against their established patterns. I agree with @d751a3a58005a217a1be814e7748e317:disqus , I'm expecting the LS before the IS, and Pebble Beach makes the most sense for a LS debut, despite the history of the LS at the Detroit auto show.

F
Flipside909
January 27, 2012

Actually in the grand scale of the Lexus spectrum, it would make more sense to release the flagship car ahead of its entry level sporty counterpart. The LS came way before the IS300 in 2000 as a 2001 model. Imho, ES & LS usually are released at about the same time as they are the 2 oldest models in the line up. We're coming up to 5th Generation ES and LS. Like everyone else, I expect the 3rd Generation IS line up to finally expand. The IS line badly needs to fill in the traditional 2 door hardtop coupe void. Wagon would be cool to add but I think with the US focus on SUV's i'm hoping we'll see a CLUV (Compact Luxury Utility Vehicle below RX) first before an IS wagon.

K
krew
January 25, 2012

* I think the recent updates to the IS were proof that the model is shifting to a different release schedule. * The eight-speed transmission is one point I wonder about, though it might just be a response to the reaction to the GS six-speed. * 100% on the coupe and wagon. The IS range needs to grow. I do think it will be a year or so before we see the coupe -- like you said, similar to BMW method.

Anonymous
February 17, 2012

I don't think its possible that the IS would have a release cycle longer than 7 years. That is just outrageous, especially considering the competition with the new 3 series. Regarding the 8 speed transmission, I don't know why Lexus can't just take the 8 speed gearbox from the IS F and put it in all their vehicles.

S
Sora Yi
January 24, 2012

Am I the only one who thinks the current IS coupe looks like shit compared to the sedans? They don't look as sporty as the sedans IMO. Eight speed transmission though, that sounds like a doozy.

T
ThaDRD
January 25, 2012

That's because the IS convertible was an afterthought and the shoe-horned in the convertible top. I don't think they ever planned on making the current IS a convertible which is why it looks so odd.

R
Robert Ladaga
January 26, 2012

Glad I'm not the only one who thinks though.

K
krew
January 25, 2012

I wouldn't make any judgments on a IS coupe based on the current convertible -- this new model will have all the variants in mind right from the start, rather than adding them after the fact.

L
LFA
January 24, 2012

The new IS better have more power. A freaking Genesis coupe has more HP for crying out loud.

Anonymous
February 17, 2012

Just because it has more HP doesn't mean its faster

L
Lexustechsa
January 25, 2012

I find the rumor of the 8 speed gearbox interesting, seeing as Lexus decided to keep the 6 speed on the new GS

W
WorldofLuxury
January 25, 2012

Hmm...

J
Jun Wang
January 25, 2012

If the next generation IS comes with the same engines, the idea just makes me sick... the same unmoddable engine, yes a freaking genesis coupe has more HP. Give us a more efficient and powerful engine... where is the technology breakthrough here? i see new cars with same or more HP and better fuel economy all the time.... where is the improvement at? if this is true, this is just going to be utterly disappointing...

S
Snoopdoggl
January 27, 2012

The 2GS-FSE is a benchmark.. Son

S
Snoopdoggl
January 27, 2012

**2GR-FSE

S
Sancali357
January 25, 2012

What about 2.0 engine that has more power than 1st generation? I would like to see that much more than 2,5, make 3.0h thats fine with me ;)

Anonymous
January 25, 2012

There will not be produced any wagon of the new IS. Say what you want! It is a fact! It's sad, of course.Specifically for Lexus in Europe. I can also confirm that it comes with 4-cylinder engine and hybrid synergy drive. BUT, still rear-wheel drive!:) And it is going to be sick looking!! trust me! we have something to look forward to in the new IS! There is unfortunately no coupe in the line up....

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

4-cylinder engine doesnt sound good at all. I'm not sure I believe you though. I think they will continue with a V6. There will be a "wagon" for sure and no coupe.

Anonymous
January 25, 2012

Sorry Thomas, but this comes from a Lexus importer. I can not say who, but trust me ... This information is 100%! The hybrid version will come with a 4-cylinder engine. This will be another world first for Lexus. V6 will come in the line up, but not in conjunction with the hybrid. No wagon!

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

Well. You say the rumors are right and the rumors says there will be a "wagon". You say it wont be a "wagon". What is it then?

Anonymous
January 25, 2012

hehehe! no wagon:)

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

So the rumors are both right and wrong then? There will be a "wagon" and there will be no 4 cyl engine(except maybe diesels for some markets).

E
Erich Kerner
January 25, 2012

I hope Lexus will NOT bring a wagon version of the new IS. They better bring an CrossOver to the market - that´s what many people like today.

Anonymous
January 26, 2012

Why Thomas ....?? New IS comes, to Europe at least, only in sedan and 4-cylinder engine with hybrid synergy drive. There will be no wagon in Europe! This means NO wagon for the US, or the rest of the world! I'm not sure if it is going to be a V6 in Europe at all. V6 is guaranteed to come in the us-line up, but not with hybrid. Diesel is finished for Lexus in Europe! This are the facts I've managed to get out of my NMSC. In addition to that, when you see the production-ready version, you will think concept! That is so f´n cool!!

K
krew
January 25, 2012

Just a note: the photo above is of the current IS, not the next-generation IS.

Anonymous
January 26, 2012

It is quite right:) My bad...

R
Rrrogster
March 22, 2012

We are all familiar with you opinion. Saying it doesn't make it so. Coupes sell better in the US. Wagons sell better in the EU. Time will tell. Give it a rest!

M
Martín Coppedè
January 25, 2012

If Lexus IS have a hybrid engine can be a interesting alternative of diesel and gasoline engines in Europe and USA. I'm wondering when Lexus can arrive in Brazil or Argentina... not only Chile.

J
jruhi4
January 26, 2012

From what I understand, Lexus used to have a nominal presence in Brazil. But, you're right, the current Lexus Global website lists Chile as the brand's only official South American locale. I've also always been baffled that Lexus doesn't have a presence in Mexico.

A
Amer_ferha
January 25, 2012

I will only buy a Lexus again if there is going to be a strong diesel in the lineup. I would prefer a 3.0 disel, the 2.2 diesel was too unresponsive and slow :/

J
jruhi4
January 26, 2012

This would've been so easy had Toyota extended the agreement to buy BMW diesels to the Lexus brand. Unfortunately, Lexus has categorically denied that it will. The BMW diesels are only going into Toyota-badged vehicles.

W
Wunko
January 25, 2012

It wouldn't surprise me if they carried over the engine like they're doing with the new GS. I would hope for a new engine and a two-door version though.

B
BOSS
January 25, 2012

Wagon?...WAgon? WAGON?? who still buy wagons these days? I dont even remember the last time I've seen a wagon on the street from any car company.

K
krew
January 25, 2012

Let me guess -- you don't live in Europe. ;-)

B
BOSS
January 25, 2012

That's true, I dont LOL.

T
Thomas
January 25, 2012

I did a search on the German site mobile.de for an Audi A4 for sale from 2010-now. There are currently 1673 A4 sedans and 3977 A4 estates("wagon") for sale in Germany. These numbers says a lot about which cars are in circulation in Europes biggest market.

G
Golfer
January 25, 2012

Personally I can't wait to see the new design - I hope its externally more exciting than the new GS but would have no complaints about a near copy of its interior as it looks great. With regard to bodystyles Lexus needs to get it right from the start as has been mentioned. I would love to have an estate (wagon) version as they are more practical when done right (Yes 'm European) I have a mk2 sedan and I love it but it aint very practical or spacious all round - but thats why it still looks great compared to a 3 series (even the uglier new one). A proper coupe would be good and revised engines with more choice. Basically all we need is more choice than current Lexus - but in a great looking updated more practical package ...dont see how they can go wrong with that formula.....

Anonymous
January 26, 2012

The new IS will have a lot of interior design details from the LFA.The entire line of the dasbord will be as taken out of the LFA. I also think it is animated instruments....

T
Thomas
January 26, 2012

Bull****!

Anonymous
January 26, 2012

you just do not give up ... I work at Toyota. My girlfriend works at Lexus. we are both owned by the same group. this weekend she was in Lisbon on product training. New GS! The day before the official program, they received an introduction to what is in store for the future from Lexus. This was a meeting with the NMSC from my country. They saw new IS (production version), face lift RX, the new LS and a small SUV, or mini RX if you will. They got to see interior photos of the new IS. It is as I told you it's going to look like, because that's what I've been told. I am a fan like everyone else here. I drive a Lexus my self, and i know where you are coming from! I have access to info that you rarely ever get access to, again because I work in the system. I share this with you as anonymous as possible. One thing is for sure Thomas. I'm not going to sit here and receive crap from people like you when I'm just trying to give you details and info on things I know are coming! To put the whole wagon discussion to rest I'll explain to you why it will not be any wagon. Lexus had the plan to create an IS wagon. However, plans for a mini RX had higher priorities which in turn led to that the IS wagon was discarded. You have your full right to believe me or not Thomas...

E
Erich Kerner
January 26, 2012

Thank you very much for these informations...I am grateful for a "user" like you. Looking forward to see all these new cars at the dealer...

K
krew
January 26, 2012

Thanks for sharing, Knittan! Appreciate the insight.

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

I too appreciate your imformation.Just be careful that you don't divulge too much & get your self in any trouble.Thanks though for what you've provided.Can't wait!

P
Pattebb
January 26, 2012

interesting news knittan..but sad that they discharged the wagon, but i hope they will do wagon 1 year later, as i hope they will with the GS. But sometimes i dont understand Lexus, Why dont they have more engine options?? But a 4cyl hybrid is ok, if power around 200hp.

Anonymous
January 27, 2012

The hp should be around 200. It's not going to be below 200 That's for sure! I'm not sure of the exact amount, but it should be around there somewhere ...

E
Erich Kerner
January 27, 2012

so for me it looks like the new IS sedan is getting the "hybrid system" from the new Camry Hybrid? Right?

T
Thomas
January 27, 2012

Yes I know. So I dont believe you.. at all.

Anonymous
January 27, 2012

This comes as no great surprise to me. You have, as I said before, your full right to believe me or not. My point is that you can save your shit for when it really is needed some time in your private life. I trust the information I get from my countrys NMSC. I hope the two of us are done with these kindergarden discussions for now ....

K
krew
January 27, 2012

Ok, we're done with this train of thought -- time to move on. Thank you.

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

Could we not post comments like this to each other?You have your full right to your opinions,but I would sooner not have to worry about having to see comments like this on here in respect to mine or any body else's comments.Arn't our lives stressful enough?

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

Can we edit all my repeat posts?There was a problem with your program getting it to accept my posts & I had to keep retrying.

K
krew
January 26, 2012

Hi Brad, If you sign up for a Disqus account or use your Twitter/Facebook account to login, you will have the ability to delete and edit your comments. Big comment revamp on the way, though. :-)

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

GREAT!!!

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

B
Brad
January 26, 2012

K
krew
January 26, 2012

Agree with Brad -- Thomas, I have no problem with you playing the grumpy old man around here, but you need to respect the other commenters. Consider this your first warning.

M
MT
January 25, 2012

If they want to sell anything in Europe then they have to bring a wagon. More than 50% of cars of that size are sold as wagons. Almost noone drives a coupe. Maybe the don't bring the wagon to America. But here in Europe I would bet there is a wagon. Otherwise they can just about forget it. Also cancelling the IS diesel is a huge mistake. Going along with the 2,5 V6 is another mistake. That engine, while well performing and refined, is ages behind in fuel economy. They already kind of **** up the western Europe launch of the new GS, before it even is on the market. While the GS will be a huge success throughout the world it will fail completely in western Europe. Reading the above, the IS will fail as well. And the only seller in Europe remains the CT. Which also sells only in small numbers due to a severe lack of Horsepower when compared to any competition.

L
LexusLVR
January 25, 2012

An IS Crossover is a waste of resources. Let's be honest here - it might look good, but it is completely impractical and not as spacious as a true wagon. Let me remind you that the first generation IS Crossover FAILED miserably (and it looked awkward at the time as well). If Lexus wants to be a blip on the radar in Europe they'll also need a wagon and a stylish coupe/convertible (niche product) for the IS and GS and lots of engine choices. The current Lexus lineup in Europe is completely uncompetitive. They don't offer the cars Europeans want and the trim levels and engines that the market demands are also lacking. In my opinion Lexus has never taken the European market seriously to begin with. Their main market is North America, there is no need to be successful in Europe. I actually think Europe is a drain on Lexus resources given how few cars they sell there.

M
Mike
April 12, 2012

right

Y
Yong Thian Ding
January 26, 2012

I ... rendered my own next generation Lexus IS-F , http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/403707_10150500266017637_607752636_8866847_295698374_n.jpg ... sorry about it's just lines , as that's what I can only do with my skills .

K
krew
January 26, 2012

Thanks for sharing, Yong -- not a bad start to a next-gen IS F.

Y
Yong Thian Ding
January 26, 2012

Thanks ! I've put influence of the latest GS350 F-Sport onto what I thought would be the next generation of Lexus IS-F , the front bumper & side windows ; the wheels is temporary because I'm no good on wheels lining . My own thought on next generation IS-F would be keep the current 2UR-GSE but made it better via putting LFA technology on the engine , made it lighter but same time made it have far higher rev (although this might effected the aftermarket potential of the engine) , made it have 450hp+ with 7000rpm redline , at the same time improve the current 8-speed gearbox , or design a transmission that similar to LFA for it , plus optional Manual Transmission .

S
Snoopdoggl
January 27, 2012

Yeah the same 5.0L is needed.. But it will be improved..

J
Joe Z
January 26, 2012

Can't wait for the next gen IS-F rumors to start... ;)

F
F1
January 26, 2012

Cannot wait! I'm so excited for the next IS.. Though I feel for the U.S market a coupe instead of a wagon is needed!

J
Jake
February 2, 2012

Do we have any idea about which powertrain is the IS getting?

J
jruhi4
February 2, 2012

If the just-launching 4th-gen Lexus GS is anything to go by, the 3rd-gen IS will keep the same 4GR-FSE 2.5-liter V6 and 2GR-FSE 3.5-liter V6 as the current IS 250 and IS 350, respectively. Also, the fact that Lexus has registered the IS 300h trademark (as reported here in an earlier story) implies an IS hybrid sharing the new-for-2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid's 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter 4-cylinder powerplant.

J
Jake
February 7, 2012

If I'm not mistaken, the ES300h would take the Camry's hybrid engine, so are we going to have the same engine in the IS300h and ES300h? It's a shame that Lexus still uses the old 4GR-FSE 2.5-liter V6 because is really outdated and fuel consumption is really high compared to the german ones.

J
jruhi4
February 7, 2012

Though there's a slim chance that the IS 300h would use the 2.5-liter V6, most pundits feel that, like you said, we are going to have the same engine in the IS 300h and ES 300h. In fact, if I understood Toyota USA VP Bob Carter's teaser riddle correctly, even an upcoming Toyota Avalon Hybrid would use this same powertrain. Here's what I'm talking about: http://kaizenfactor.wordpress.com/2012/01/31/bob-carters-baffling-riddle-or-the-mystery-of-the-19th-new-toyota-for-2012/

R
Rrrogster
March 22, 2012

Sometimes it is wise to take a step back and look at the big picture. We must keep in mind that it is a profitable bottom line that keeps the vehicle manufacturers in business. Simply put and to state the obvious they must make a profit today to be here in the future. Currency fluctuations have caused those vehicles made in Japan to creep up in price. Hence the more aggressive moves such as the decontenting occurring in some new models and the moving of manufacturing sites to lower cost locations to keep costs down that have been observed from the Japanese manufacturers. Keeping a 6 speed AT in the new Lexus GS had to be a financial decision. Their great 8 speed AT just has to cost more. And its something most people who buy that car won't notice. Also the giant earthquake last year certainly didn't help matters. It was a big set back in many ways for the Japanese based manufacturers. Time will tell if their tactics will help them successfully compete against the up and coming Koreans. It is that fierce competition that keeps great new models coming our way. We can all dream about what is yet to come. I personally would like to see Lexus bring us their version of the RAV4. There is room for something really nice in this segment since most of their SUV's are now niche dinosaurs. I'm thinking the decisions Lexus makes has more to do with staying profitable and competitive than anything else at this point in the cycle. Will the Koreans develop intrinsic problems of their own? Will China become a significant player in the international arena? I plan to stay tuned as this never ending saga continues.

Next-Generation Lexus IS Rumors

Popular Stories

Comments