Next-Generation Lexus IS Sedan to get Twin-Turbo V6 F SPORT?


The Australian website Driving Enthusiast is claiming the next-generation Lexus IS sedan will be available with the 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine from the LS flagship:

The rumoured 2020 Lexus IS 400 isn’t set to be a full-cream performance model by F division, but more of a sub-performance version by its F Sport sector. It’s believed it will feature a range of performance-inspired features, such as large wheels hiding big brakes, sports suspension, and the usual F Sport treatment for the interior.

As for that engine. Lexus introduced its first turbocharged petrol engine, codenamed ‘V35A-FTS’, with the LS 500. The 3.5-litre twin-turbo unit essentially comes in to replace the naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6.

Let’s just be upfront — this news is coming from an unsubstantiated source, there’s nothing to back up these facts. However, the V35A-FTS twin-turbo V6 makes perfect sense in the next-generation IS sedan.

That said, 416 horsepower seems excessive in the standard model, and Lexus has yet offer serious performance upgrades with their F SPORT models. If the rumor is correct and the TTV6 is not meant for the next-generation IS F, then what powers that car?

(We could stack rumors on top of each other, and suggest a detuned version of the much-hyped twin-turbo 600-horsepower V8 for the IS F. Also, the image above was a rendering of the next-gen GS F and unrelated to the IS at all.)

Lexus IS: Third Generation
Comments
TheNerdyPotato
Another reason why Toyota hasn't made many AWD cars may be because they own a 20% stake of Subaru. Since AWD is one of Subaru's main selling points, Toyota may be trying to not step on their toes. I know it's unlikely to happen, but it could be interesting to see an IS with a Subaru-sourced AWD drivetrain. This wouldn't work with some GA-L cars, which I've read are FMR layout, because the engine is always ahead of the front axle on Subaru powertrains.
Subaru could move away from SymmetricAWD with ElectricRWD. But it will likely remain SymmetricFWD, because of its Boxer engine.
TheNerdyPotato
Another reason why Toyota hasn't made many AWD cars may be because they own a 20% stake of Subaru. Since AWD is one of Subaru's main selling points, Toyota may be trying to not step on their toes. I know it's unlikely to happen, but it could be interesting to see an IS with a Subaru-sourced AWD drivetrain. This wouldn't work with some GA-L cars, which I've read are FMR layout, because the engine is always ahead of the front axle on Subaru powertrains.
Subaru could move away from SymmetricAWD with ElectricRWD. But it will likely remain SymmetricFWD, because of its Boxer engine.
S
TheNerdyPotato
Another reason why Toyota hasn't made many AWD cars may be because they own a 20% stake of Subaru. Since AWD is one of Subaru's main selling points, Toyota may be trying to not step on their toes. I know it's unlikely to happen, but it could be interesting to see an IS with a Subaru-sourced AWD drivetrain. This wouldn't work with some GA-L cars, which I've read are FMR layout, because the engine is always ahead of the front axle on Subaru powertrains.
Yes. yes! This. Thank you for pointing this out - I have missed this fact.

Its very true. Toyota has investments in Subaru. Its highly likely they don't want to take away Subaru's market share of AWD. We would still have to calculate the profits to see if Toyota will benefit more from staying away from Subaru's turf.

I also want to add Toyota AWD systems aren't partially good. They are okay at best if I'm honest. Toyota's AWD system just doesn't have the selling power of say a Audi, Acura or Subaru AWD system. This could further deter Toyota away from adding AWD to a lot of their vehicles.

S