Jay Leno Drives the Next-Generation Lexus IS Prototype

Posted by Kevin on December 9th, 2012

Along with the traditional automotive media, Jay Leno also had an opportunity to drive the next-generation Lexus IS prototype:

While it’s all unconfirmed, JL spills plenty of detail on the new model:

  • Eight-speed transmission is standard (at least with the IS 350)
  • IS 350 horsepower is unchanged, remains at 306 hp
  • 70mm longer wheelbase than the previous generation

There’s also a quick glance at the interior without the plastic coverings we saw last week:

Lexus IS Next-Generation Interior

Overall, JL speaks highly of the next-generation IS, comparing it favorably to the German competition and complimenting the handling and performance — great video to watch.

JapanLexus IS: Second GenerationReviewsUSA
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    BlackDynamiteOnline
  • December 9, 2012
The 250 gets a 6-speed auto.   NO manual is ever mentioned.  No hybrid in the US (Available elsewhere) Hard to have a mandate of "Make it more fun to drive", but you get no more power, and no manual. Lexus is trying to drop the ball on this one..... BD
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      F1orce
    • December 10, 2012
    The IS350 is still the fastest in its class! Well at least from 0-60 anyway..
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      BATMAN
    • December 10, 2012
    Last time I checked the brand new 335i ran a 0-60 from numbers as low as the 4.8- 4.9 seconds. The Lexus posted around 5.0-5.5. So don't know what you're talking about there. 
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      BlackDynamiteOnline
    • December 10, 2012
    Road & Track got 4.9 from a IS350, when compared to a G37 BD
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      GIGGITY
    • December 10, 2012
    right so around 5.0-5.5, 
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      GIGGITY
    • December 10, 2012
    YES!! why can't Lexus make cars more fun to drive along with adding more ponies. It's like Lexus is always lagging in one department or another. They make a car fun to drive but lacks power or vice versa. I really doubt people will look at a IS250 price tag and see it only has 204 hp and have it be justified, while a corolla can smoke it from 0-60
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    darkride
  • December 9, 2012
I really hope the IS gets option for LED headlamps in a tech package. However, I have high doubts about my wish. They aren't available as option on ES, and the upgraded headlights on GS are dual HID Bi-xenons (but they still look great). I think they an give extra distinctive Lexus flare to the CT200h, and LS600h. They would make the next-gen IS look even more like the LF-CC
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    Glyder
  • December 10, 2012
Interior is not covered up! :) 
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    Brnjou87
  • December 10, 2012
Hopefully the throttle response is bmw like...
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    WTF-Over
  • December 10, 2012
The wheel gap is atrocious.  Seriously Lexus, being able to fit monster truck tires on an IS doesnt scream sporty.
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    Someboy
  • December 25, 2012
Same engine with no horsepower increase ? I ain't buying !!!!! Rather drive my modded is350 right now !

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