Introducing The New Lexus IS

The IS 250 SE-L automatic is available with the option of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which maintains a safe, pre-set distance from the vehicle ahead, and Lexus’s Pre-crash Safety System (PCS), which determines when a frontal collision is unavoidable and tensions the front seatbelts and prepares to engage emergency braking to help minimise impact.

SE-L and Sport versions are equipped with High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with Lexus’s Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS). AFS adjusts the angle of the headlamp beam in line with vehicle speed and steering angle to improve illumination through bends.

The IS 220d Sport comes as standard with Lexus’s unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which enhances the vehicle’s performance, traction control and stability. By applying integrated control of all the elements related to vehicle movement, including engine torque, brakes and steering, VDIM, optimises activation of the braking, stability and traction control, systems.

Grade Structure, Pricing And Equipment Specifications

The IS is launched in IS 250, SE and SE-L grades on 19 November. The IS 220d models and IS 250 Sport versions are due to join the range in January 2006, with IS 220d Sport models completing the line-up in April 2006.

All versions are fitted with eight airbags, cruise control, 13-speaker sound system with CD autochanger and Aux socket for linking personal digital music players, smart keyless entry and start, climate control, sequenced LED interior spot lighting, alloy wheels and front and rear armrests.

SE models feature leather upholstery with electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats and 17-inch alloys. The SE-L comes with rain-sensing wipers, HID headlights with Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), front and rear parking sensors, electrically adjustable steering column, memory settings for the steering wheel, front seats and door mirrors and a power sunshade for the rear window.

The Sport versions will feature Cellensia suede-effect upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, lowered sports suspension, sport-style pedals, electrically adjustable heated front seats, HID headlamps with AFS and front and rear parking sensors.

Multimedia Package

A Multimedia Package, available as an option (£2,710) on all models, provides a class-leading Mark Levinson 14-speaker package with 5.1-channel digital surround sound. Other features include a front-mounted seven-inch VGA screen; a six-disc DVD autochanger, capable of playing both audio and, when the vehicle is stationary, video discs; an upgraded DVD-based satellite navigation system; Bluetooth connectivity; Park Assist Monitor; and voice control function.

Prices and Insurance

On-the-road prices and insurance groups for the Lexus IS range:

Model	OTR Price	Insurance Group
IS 250	£22,400	13E
IS 250 SE	£25,400	14E
IS 250 SE-L	£28,000	14E
IS 250 Sport	£26,500	14E
IS 220d	£22,200	12E
IS 220d SE	£25,200	13E
IS 220d SE-L	£27,800	13E
IS 220d Sport	£26,900	13E