Lexus Announces Voluntary Safety Recall for 2006-2012 IS Models
Lexus USA has announced a voluntary safety recall for the 2006-2012 IS.
Kevin · January 30th, 2013
Latest News
Motor Trend Drives the 2014 Lexus IS F SPORT
Along with the insightful interview with chief engineer Junichi Furuyama, Motor Trend has published an exclusive feature on the third-generation Lexus IS.
Kevin · January 23rd, 2013
Video Interview with Lexus IS Chief Engineer Junichi Furuyama
Motor Trend has posted a wonderfully detailed video interview with Lexus IS chief engineer Junichi Furuyama.
Kevin · January 22nd, 2013
Video: 2014 Lexus IS 350 & IS F SPORT on the Road
As part of their media press kits, Lexus has released two videos that provide a very nice visual tour of the new 2014 IS.
Kevin · January 21st, 2013
A Closer Look at the 2014 Lexus IS Interior
Yesterday, we took a closer look at the 2014 Lexus IS exterior, and now it’s time to examine the interior,
Kevin · January 10th, 2013
Road & Track Photo Gallery: 2014 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT
A select group of magazines had the opportunity for an advance photoshoot with new 2014 Lexus IS, and the gallery at Road & Track is my favorite of the bunch.
Kevin · January 10th, 2013
A Closer Look at the 2014 Lexus IS Exterior
The 2014 Lexus IS has been revealed, so let’s take a closer look at the exterior of the next-generation sports sedan.
Kevin · January 9th, 2013
Video: AutoGuide Previews the 2014 Lexus IS F SPORT
Moving along with the next-generation Lexus IS coverage, here’s an exclusive video from AutoGuide.
Kevin · January 9th, 2013
Next-Generation Lexus IS to Offer Subscription-Free Traffic & Weather Reports
Lexus USA has announced that the next-generation Lexus IS will be the first-ever automobile to offer subscription-free real-time traffic and weather information.
Kevin · January 8th, 2013
Lexus to Replace Interior Trunk Releases in 2007-2013 ES, 2006-2012 IS & 2013 GS
According to Consumer Reports, Lexus is expected to announce a customer service campaign to fix the emergency trunk release in the 2007-2013 Lexus ES, 2006-2012 Lexus IS, and 2013 Lexus GS.
Kevin · December 12th, 2012
National Post: Next-Generation Lexus IS F SPORT Preview
Graeme Fletcher from The National Post has driven the next-generation Lexus IS prototype, and provides a very detailed account of the experience on the autocross course.
Kevin · December 10th, 2012
Jay Leno Drives the Next-Generation Lexus IS Prototype
Along with the traditional automotive media, Jay Leno also had an opportunity to drive the next-generation Lexus IS prototype.
Kevin · December 9th, 2012
Video Review of the Next-Generation Lexus IS Prototype
The next review of the 2014 Lexus IS prototype is from Colum Wood of Autoguide, and it’s an excellent video overview of the camouflaged model.
Kevin · December 4th, 2012
Carsguide Drives the 2014 Lexus IS Prototype
Paul Gover from Carsguide also had a test drive in the the next-generation 2014 Lexus IS prototype.
Kevin · December 4th, 2012
2012 Lexus IS 250 & ES 350 Included in New IIHS Crash Test Results
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the USA has introduced a new crash safety test simulating an off-center accident, and the results after testing eleven mid-size luxury automobiles were not good.
Kevin · August 14th, 2012
Fox Marketing Lexus IS F & IS-C Get Crushed
The last few days have not been kind to Lexus automobiles — first it was the Belgian hacksaw attack on a LS 400, and now we have two SEMA show cars built by Fox Marketing being destroyed due to federal regulations.
Kevin · May 28th, 2012
Next-Generation 2014 Lexus IS Mule Spotted!
New spy photos of the next-generation Lexus IS today, by way of Autoblog.it.
Kevin · April 16th, 2012
2012 Lexus IS 350 F-Sport Video
Here’s a quick look at a 2012 Nebula Gray Pearl Lexus IS 350 with the full F-Sport treatment.
Kevin · September 26th, 2011
2012 Lexus IS & IS Convertible Information
After its updates in 2011, the Lexus IS 250 & IS 350 enter 2012 with only some exterior colour changes, with Nebula Gray Pearl replacing Smoky Granite Mica and Fire Agate Pearl replacing Glacier Frost Mica.
Kevin · August 16th, 2011
Driving the 2011 Lexus IS 350 AWD
Last week, I picked up a 2011 Lexus IS 350 AWD from Lexus Canada HQ for a road test, and so far, I've found it a very easy car to drive fast. I don't know if it's the AWD system or the memory of the LFA driving school, but there's some serious confidence happening in this car.
Kevin · June 17th, 2011
Supercharged Lexus IS 350 on Custom Pink Volk TE37 Wheels
The May 2011 issue of Super Street has a feature on Jeremy Brittain's supercharged Lexus IS 350 packed with nitrous, Rotora brakes and some killer pink Volk TE37s.
Kevin · June 6th, 2011
Lexus IS on Vossen VVS-CV3 Wheels
Check out these photos of a Lexus IS decked out in a set of Vossen VVS-CV3 wheels.
Kevin · May 25th, 2011
TTAC Reviews the 2011 Lexus IS 350 AWD
The Truth About Cars reviewed the Lexus IS 350 AWD a couple months back, and found a lot to like about the new all-wheel drive system, which they found suited the the drivetrain and chassis quite well. On the negative side, the usual complaints surface: super-small back seats, average fuel economy, and the fact that …
Kevin · May 5th, 2011
Kazama Auto’s 2JZ Lexus IS
Speaking of matte black Lexus IS 350s, here’s a great Speedhunters feature on a two-tone IS built by Kazama Auto that’s out-of-this-world: It’s not just the exterior that’s been remade, but the entire car from top to bottom. Check out this engine setup: That’s a 2JZ-GTE Supra engine pumping out 620hp and mated to a …
Kevin · March 30th, 2011
Matte Black Lexus IS 350
Club Lexus member DarkDuke has put together a stunning matte black Lexus IS 350 — take a look at this pro job: Those WedsSport SA-55M wheels are pure insane — love the blue accents. Brilliant piece of work, be sure to check out the rest of the photos over at Club Lexus. [Photographer: Brent Zheng]
Kevin · March 30th, 2011
Lexus IS Precision Tour Dates
After taking December & January off, the Lexus IS Precision Tour will be starting back up in February with stops at some of the USA’s best tracks — here’s a full listing: Auto Club Speedway Fontana, California Saturday, February 19, 2011 Infineon Raceway Sonoma, California Saturday, February 26, 2011 Texas Motor Speedway Fort Worth, Texas …
Kevin · January 28th, 2011
Lexus Recalls 06-07 GS 350 & 06-09 IS 250/350 Over Fuel Pressure Sensor
Lexus has announced a voluntary safety recall on the select 2006-2007 GS 300/350, 2006-2009 IS 250, & 2006-2008 IS 350 models due to the possibility of a loose fuel pressure sensor — from the Lexus USA press release: Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will conduct a voluntary Safety Recall involving …
Kevin · January 26th, 2011
Lexus IS Precision Tour in New York
If you’re anywhere near Monticello Motor Club in New York, I have some excellent news — this Saturday, Lexus USA is kicking off the IS Precision Tour, which means track-time with both the 2011 IS 350 & IS F! There will be six two-hour sessions throughout the day, and one lucky participant from each group …
Kevin · November 8th, 2010
Customized Lexus IS Billboards
The New York Times reports about a new IS billboard campaign from Lexus USA customized by highway: Toyota’s Lexus division recently mind-melded this contradiction in an outdoor advertising campaign that declares in supersize lettering that the 2011 Lexus IS is “overqualified for the B.Q.E.,” as the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway is known locally. That was just in …
Kevin · October 25th, 2010
Lexus Announces Voluntary Recall on 2006 GS 300, IS 250 & IS 350, 2004-2006 RX 330
Lexus has announced a worldwide voluntary recall on the 2006 Lexus GS300, IS250 & IS350, plus the 2004-2006 RX 330 for an possible issue with brake fluid slowly leaking from the brake master cylinder — here’s the full technical explanation: The Toyota genuine brake fluid used during vehicle assembly for vehicles sold in the United …
Kevin · October 21st, 2010
Graffiti Lexus IS
Let’s switch up the CT reviews with this Lexus IS done up in a schizophrenic graffiti paint job: From one extreme to the next — here’s what the finished IS looked like: For more photos, including some detail shots, be sure to check out the Drive Culture website. [Source: Drive Culture] Update: Johnson Jeng, owner …
Kevin · October 13th, 2010
New Lexus IS & ES Commercials
Two new Lexus commercials have debuted online — one for the IS, the other for the ES — with both commercials focusing on the differences between Lexus models and their competitors. First up is the ES 350, which is once again being taken apart for the cameras: Next up is this commercial for the IS …
Kevin · October 12th, 2010
New 2011 Lexus IS Commerical: Music Track
This new IS commercial from Lexus USA is a musical masterpiece: Such a great concept, so well done — love it.
Kevin · September 3rd, 2010
2011 Lexus IS F-Sport Package
Lexus USA will be offering an F-Sport option package on all RWD IS 250/IS 350s that borrows from the IS F — here’s what’s included: An all-new suspension with tuned steering New 18″ alloy wheels with a dark super-chrome finish A front lip spoiler and a rear deck spoiler Dark super-chrome front grille F Sport …
Kevin · July 16th, 2010
2011 Lexus IS Official Details
Lexus USA has announced details on the 2011 IS, and as expected, the model will be receiving some minor updates for new year: The HID headlights have been redesigned and now include LED daytime running lights. Update: HID lights are optional on the IS 250 and standard on the IS 350. The front grille & …
Kevin · July 16th, 2010
My.IS TO2kX Meet in Toronto
Members of My.IS & Club Lexus gathered last weekend in Toronto, Ontario for some time at the track and a highway cruise: There’s plenty of photos to look through in the My.IS thread — this one caught my eye with the red: Looks like a fun event, I’m hoping to attend myself next year. (Thanks …
Kevin · July 14th, 2010
More on the Lexus Engine Recall
Lexus USA will be formally submitting their recall of approximately 138,000 Lexus vehicles next week with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The recall will apply to certain 2006, 2007 & 2008 GS, IS, and LS models equipped with 4.6 and 5.0L V8 and 3.5L V6 engines. Here’s the full breakdown: GS 350: 2007-2008 GS …
Kevin · July 2nd, 2010
2011 Lexus IS Interior Option: Sunrise
Another detail about the 2011 Lexus IS has emerged — check out this brand new interior option, Sunrise, which is almost certainly limited to the Japanese market: This is pushing at the very outer limits of interior color combinations, but I have to admire the very idea of these special editions — especially something so …
Kevin · June 25th, 2010
The 2011 Lexus IS
Earlier this month, we saw some leaked photos of the possible 2011 Lexus IS, and now Japanese weblog レクサスとの道 has published proof (click images for larger images): For the most part, the changes are minor — LED daytime running lights, revised bumpers, some small interior updates — however, let’s take a closer look at this …
Kevin · June 21st, 2010
Sleek New IS Website from Lexus Canada
Last month, we saw behind-the-scenes footage for a new Lexus commercial featuring all versions of the IS — now here’s the finished product as part of a new IS section on the Lexus Canada website: Lots of energy to the site, and definitely worth clicking through — the video quality is just fantastic. Very sleek, …
Kevin · May 28th, 2010
Lexus IS 350 to Debut in Australia
Lexus Australia has announced that the IS 350 sport sedan will be joining its lineup in the fourth quarter of 2010. With its debut Down Under, the IS 350 gains a fourth national market after Canada, Japan, and the U.S., and also addresses the power differential between Lexus Australia’s other IS offerings, the IS 250 …
Kevin · February 24th, 2010
Flickr Find: Lexus IS Dark Knight
I love this atmospheric Lexus IS photo by Jiaren Hui that I found on Flickr: Looks straight out of a getaway movie. [Source: Jiaren Hui’s Flickr Photostream]
Kevin · December 15th, 2009
Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 Recall Extended to Canada
The Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 safety recall that was announced in the USA has been extended to Canada. The recall will address the possible risk of unintended acceleration due to improperly installed floor mats by installing a new accelerator pedal and by installing a brake override system that will cut engine power went …
Kevin · November 27th, 2009
Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 Recall Announced
Toyota has announced the recall of the Lexus ES 350 & IS 250/350 models to have their accelerator pedals reshaped and/or replaced. This recall is to be a permanent solution to the risk of unintended acceleration, no matter what floor mat is being used. Starting in early 2010, dealerships will be equipped to reshape the …
Kevin · November 25th, 2009
Lexus ES & IS to be Recalled over Floor Mats
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recommendation that 2007-2010 Lexus ES 350 & 2006-2010 Lexus IS 250/IS350 owners remove their drivers side floor mat, which may cause the accelerator to become stuck open under certain conditions: “This is an urgent matter,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “For everyone’s sake, we strongly …
Kevin · September 29th, 2009
The Tennis Ball Lexus IS 350
After creating a dimpled golfball version of the LS 460 for the U.S. Open, Lexus is at it again with a yellow felt covered IS 350 for the U.S. Tennis Open: These one-off theme cars are just brilliant, what a unique way to promote a sponsorship. For more photos of the tennis ball IS, check …
Kevin · September 10th, 2009
New 2010 Lexus IS F-Sport Package
The Frankfurt auto show will also mark the debut of this new F-Sport package for the Lexus IS—here’s a photo (click for a larger version): No mention of which F-Sport accessories will be making it into the package, but from the image alone, it looks like a new grille, lowering kit, and new wheels are …
Kevin · September 2nd, 2009
Lexus IS-GTF Race Team for Sale
If you’ve ever wanted to have your own racing team, you will be interested to learn that the DRC Motorsports Lexus IS-GTF race cars are now for sale. This trio of super-modified IS 350s (one fully assembled, parts for two more), which you may remember from last year, originally belonged to Team Lexus, and can …
Kevin · August 19th, 2009
Jalopnik Reviews the Lexus IS Convertible
Jalopnik had a chance to drive the Lexus IS Convertible, and their biggest complaint was the lack of rigidity in the body: The ‘vert gets beefed up in nearly every way, with side sills 50% taller, cross-vehicle beams under the rear seats and behind the rear seatbacks, a heftier A-pillar and substantial cross bracing underneath…Despite …
Kevin · June 24th, 2009
Lexus IS Convertible F-Sport Photo Gallery
To promote the fact that the existing F-Sport performance accessories for the Lexus IS are fully compatible with the IS Convertible, Lexus has released some images with an IS-C decked out to the nines: {embed=“site/gallery” gallery_id=“1157”} The convertible is still too junky in the trunky for my tastes, but the 19” forged alloy wheels suit …
Kevin · May 22nd, 2009
New Lexus IS Convertible Mini-Site
As part of their IS convertible advertising campaign, Lexus USA has put together a mini-site that’s just as much fun as their new commercials: The website first demonstrates the new features of the IS-C, then asks how you would use each highlighted point—then rates your answer on the Live a Little scale. It’s easy to …
Kevin · May 20th, 2009
Auto Guide Reviews the Lexus IS F-Sport Performance Parts
Auto Guide has put together a review of the F-Sport performance accessories available for the Lexus IS 350, and came away impressed with the results—here are some of their observations: We did note the sexy new timbre to the motor’s voice [due to the F-Sport intake & exhaust], however. Tipping the throttle produces an aggressive, …
Kevin · April 16th, 2009
Lexus IS 350 V6 Engine Named as one of 2008’s Best
The 3.5L DOHC V-6 engine found in the Lexus IS 350 has been named as one of 2008’s top engines by Wards: As it earns its third consecutive 10 Best Engines award, Associate Editor Byron Pope sums up the Lexus-exclusive engine’s execution: “Good luck beating this in any category.” …where the IS 350 application really …
Kevin · January 21st, 2008
Special Edition Lexus IS to be released in Japan
Lexus Japan will be releasing a limited edition Elegant White Interior IS, an especially literal name to be sure: Beyond the white/grey two-tone semi-aniline leather seats, the interior will be replete with real wood paneling on the center console and doors, plus a rear privacy shade (not pictured): I think it’s gorgeous, the wood grain …
Kevin · January 16th, 2008
Lexus IS 350 GT2 to Enter Le Mans Series
There’s certainly some confusion out there today in regards to the Lexus IS-F Racing Concept & the new Team Lexus racer. Thought to be the same car, it turns out that the orange Team Lexus race car may be something entirely different. One thing’s for sure, it’s destined for the Le Mans series GT2 class, …
Kevin · January 8th, 2008
Lexus Issues Recall of 2006 GS 300, IS 250 & IS 350
Lexus has announced a recall of the 2006 editions of the GS 300, IS 250 and the IS 350, in regards to a problem with the fuel pipe design. Over time, a crack may form in fuel pipes located in the engine compartment, the company said today in a statement. The problem is blamed on …
Kevin · November 28th, 2007
Is this the 2009 Lexus IS?
An Autospies reader recently posted up this scanned-in Japanese auto mag page depicting the facelifted 2009 Lexus IS: “Top Secret” banner aside, this is likely a photochop, though subtle enough to be believable. The differences are slight, there’s some GS design incorporated into the front end, and the side panels look to be tucked in. …
Kevin · November 12th, 2007
Edmunds Sport Sedan Comparison Test
Edmunds has posted up a comparison test of 2007-2008 sports sedans, pitting the 2007 Lexus IS 350 and Infiniti G35 Sport against 2008 models of the Cadillac CTS, Mercedes C350 Sport and BMW 335i. How did Lexus fare? Fourth place: Not one editor who scored this test was able to find the kind of personal …
Kevin · November 5th, 2007
A Summary of the New Lexus F-Sport Performance Accessory Line
As expected, Lexus debuted their new F-Sport Performance Accessory Line at SEMA, and there’s no shortage of products to choose from, that is, if you have an IS 250/350. Here’s a summary of the offerings: * The most significant upgrades are for the suspension and handling, including a lowering spring set, a sway bar set …
Kevin · October 31st, 2007
New Wald Lexus IS Body Kit Photos
Wald International has updated its website with Lexus IS Body Kit photos, and they’re surely a sight for sore eyes. When it debuted in August, the only official photos featured the car wet, of all things, and were certainly not up to their usual quality. As well, they hightlighted a number of unflattering characteristics, particularly …
Kevin · October 19th, 2007
Lexus IS 350 Paddleshift Mini-Game
I found a neat little Lexus IS 350 mini-game today after clicking on a banner while reading the New York Times article on the BMW M Division. There isn’t much to it, you’re only in control of up/down shifting as you race other IS 350’s through a super short course, but there’s a leaderboard and …
Kevin · October 5th, 2007
Wald International Releases Lexus IS 250/350/220d Body Kit
Wald International has just released their IS 250/350/220d body kit, and it’s a marked improvement over the photoshop mockups: The sports fender ducts are still in development, and will hopefully stay that way. As it stands, the kit consists of a front spoiler, side step, a rear skirt and a trunk lid spoiler. The front …
Kevin · August 23rd, 2007
The Lexus Body Kit Series: IS 250/350/220d
For the fourth part of my Lexus Body Kit Series, I bring you the IS 250/350/220d. I was surprised to find that the IS 250/350/220d had less body kits available than the third-gen GS, as I was expecting far, far more. Thinking on it, I figure it must have something to do with the great …
Kevin · August 17th, 2007
Flickr Find: Rolling
I’ve featured a IS 350 photo from Flickr user J.Garrido before, but this image was simply too stunning to ignore: I’m a sucker for streaking blurs, night shots and glowing instrument panels, and this shot has to rank right up there with the best. Brilliant.
Kevin · July 26th, 2007
Redneckin’ in a Lexus IS 350
I can’t conceive of a single reason why someone would take their brand new IS 350 into a field to do doughnuts, but it certainly isn’t the first time I’ve been left speechless by a Lexus owner.
Kevin · July 14th, 2007
Raccoon Destroys Lexus IS 350
It’s a unique circumstance to destroy your engine after hitting a raccoon, but that’s what happened to Nathan Pitzel in his brand new IS 350: While driving through Texas a raccoon ran right in front of my car. It was the middle of the night 100 miles outside of Amarillo @ 1:30am, at first I …
Kevin · July 10th, 2007
Flickr Find: IS 350 & Civil Disobedience
Flickr user J.Garrido used his IS 350 not only to break the law, but he took a photo of it: Really, all humor aside, this is a beautiful photo, the detail and processing are impeccable and it’s certainly one of the best “new car owner” photos I’ve come across. Wonderful job.
Kevin · June 19th, 2007
Comparison: Lexus IS 350 vs. BMW 330i
It’s now almost two years old, but I’ve seen few comparisons as detailed as Autoweb’s head-to-head showdown between the 2006 BMW 330i and the 2006 Lexus IS 350. No stone is left unturned as they pit the two cars against each other, comparing them in convenience, design, comfort, and driving. The results couldn’t be considered …
Kevin · June 10th, 2007