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• Lexus' new IS has been launched in South Africa.
• The local IS portfolio comprises an all-hybrid line-up.
• All derivatives are powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine linked to an electric motor.
• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za
Lexus South Africa has gone full hybrid with its latest IS. The line-up consists of three models, those being the EX, SE, and F Sport. All derivatives are powered by the Japanese automaker's 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that sends power to the rears via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It's a package that comes together quite well, with overall execution even more premium than before.
The decision to adopt this all-hybrid drivetrain, says Lexus, is because of market trends. Year on year, consumers are looking into alternative energies to power their vehicles, with electrification making up a big part of that. Sadly, electric vehicles (EVs) are still out of reach for the average consumer - both locally and abroad - leaving room for automakers to look at hybrid options.
Lexus, especially, has been at the forefront of this technology for years, making the transition for the IS to go all-hybrid that much easier. According to Lexus South Africa, they are the leaders in terms of selling hybrid vehicles locally.
The package
Lexus has upped its game to make the new IS300h a looker from all angles in terms of both the interior and exterior designs. The car adopts a far sportier look than before, with a broader stance, a new slim headlight design, and new 18-inch wheels (19-inch on the F Sport) to round off the look. The roofline slopes backwards, running into the newly designed rear. It's a look that works and will appease many an onlooker.
The new IS300h F Sport, especially, looks like the entire show. There truly is a sense of drama and occasion to the sporty sedan's look.
Inside, Lexus also upped their game. On the EX and SE grades, prospective owners have the option to specify the interior trim in either black or dark rose. The F Sport can be had with a black, white, or flare red interior with satin ornamentation. The F-Sport we drove was fitted with the latter option, and it really alters the cabin's ambience - for the better! Those opting for the IS300h SE or IS300h F Sport will be happy to know that a 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium sound system comes standard.
In your opinion, is it still viable for Lexus SA to continue selling its IS sedan when SUVs and crossovers have become the go-to vehicles? Email us your thoughts or use the comment section below.
Equipment fitted to the IS300h
The new IS300h is fitted with a substantial list of standard equipment, all aimed at enhancing the driving experience. These are:
- An electric park brake (replacing foot-operated);
- New 10.3-inch touch-display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto;
- A pre-collision system for the SE grade and F Sport featuring daytime/night-time pedestrian detection plus daytime cyclist detection;
- All-speed active cruise control (SE and F Sport), lane tracing assist (SE and F Sport), blind-spot monitor (SE and F Sport);
- Rear cross-traffic alert and brake;
- Panoramic view monitor for the SE and F Sport when reversing;
- Satellite navigation, voice control, and LED headlamps with automatic high-beam (SE and F Sport).
Engine and drive
The IS300h is powered by a petrol engine that is linked to a hybrid powertrain. The latter serves as a secondary power unit but allows the IS300h to run on electric power alone in peak traffic instances. Of course, this is dependent on how much power the hybrid unit has, but the car recovers energy and charges the hybrid motor as you go.
The 2.5-litre petrol engine produces 133kW and 221Nm, but the hybrid motor increases power to 164kW. Top speed for all three models are rated at 200km/h, and the car can sip as little as 5.2-litres/100km, according to Lexus South Africa.
Lexus Japan has gone to great lengths in giving its new IS a ride quality of note, all of which has been tuned at the company's new technical centre in Shimoyama, Japan. The end-result is a chassis that feels planted and secured through corners, which leaves the impression that it could handle more power than has been bestowed upon it. Steering feel is a tad vague at times, but the astute owner will rarely push their car beyond what is really needed.
The F Sport model has the same driving modes as its two siblings, but engaging Sport S+ through the drive mode selector will activate the Adaptive Variable Suspension. This setting endows the car with a sportier feel without hindering the overall comfort. The engine feels willing to get the job done, but the CVT fails to come to the party when you lay on the accelerator. Under normal driving conditions, though, the IS300h should see to every need.
Adding to the improved ride quality is 15mm of extra width on either side of the car, and the front, roof, and rear has been lowered by 43mm, 15mm, and 31mm, respectively.
In summary
The IS is an important car for Lexus. And though the rise of crossovers and SUVs has meant that sedan sales have dwindled in recent years, it wasn't enough reason for Lexus South Africa to omit the car from the local product portfolio. And following an afternoon driving the new sedan, it is clear that Lexus SA made the right decision.
The new IS300h impressed, and prospective owners will likely be impressed, as well.
Pricing:
• Lexus IS300h EX - R841 300
• Lexus IS300h SE - R899 800
• Lexus IS300h F Sport - R916 100
The entire IS range comes standard with a seven-year/105 000km warranty and full maintenance plan. Vehicle service intervals are pegged at every 15 000km, or once a year.
