Lexus IS: Exterior General Information

This article applies to the Lexus IS (2005-2013).

Automobile purchases are only second to homes in regards to the financial impact on you and your family. Even a used car purchase means thousands of dollars out of pocket. Improving the odds of making a good buy requires information that's included here. Admittedly, this article only covers the cosmetics, as the very first thing you’ll see on a dealer’s lot or when you arrive at a private home is a shiny object. Look beneath the shine to get the car you want and need.

The Lexus IS began life in 1999 as a concept; in 2000 the IS 300 debuted in Los Angeles and went on sale. It was renewed in 2005 as the IS 350; later an IS 250 was added, both with new vehicle dynamics systems. AWD arrived in 2006, steering and interiors were improved for the 2008 model year, and the third generation was shown at the North American International Auto Show in 2013.

The IS originally came in white, a lonely structure of steel covered in sheet metals and filled with refinement. According to Lexus, the second generation IS’ measurements are:

Basic Features

IS 250 and IS 350 model names reflect the V-6 engine’s displacement of 2.5-liters or 3.5-liters. While most IS models were rear-wheel drive, both AWD and convertible models were, and are, offered. The high performance IS F has a 5.0-liter V-8. While the earlier IS models were more Toyota than what we expect of Lexus, that changed for Gen 2 models which added electroluminescent instrument panels, LED interior lighting, leather seating surfaces, and the famous bird’s eye maple IP surfaces made from gun stock materials.

Over the years, features like Bluetooth audio streaming, premium Mark Levinson Audio systems, and a suite of XM Satellite radio telematics (weather, navigation/traffic, gas prices and sports' scores, etc.) were added as options. For cars without the optional navigation systems, Safety Connect accident notification became standard.

The latest models all have direct injected engines, 4-wheel ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA) to firmly and evenly apply brakes in panic situations. Standard features include a color coordinated front air dam, dual polished stainless steel exhaust pipes, fog lamps, and projector headlamps.

IS steel monocoque bodies use acoustic glass windshields to reduce wind noise, and the steel for most body panels is galvanized to reduce rusting. Monochromatic Super Olefin Polymer bumpers are fitted front and rear, and extensive sound damping quiets the vehicle to Lexus’ standards.

Other common features include heated rear view mirrors, SmartAccess (keyless entry) with push button start, and variable intermittent wipers. Seat heating is uncommon in these cars, unlike the standard multiple cup holders front and rear, or the dust/pollen filter and first aid kit. HomeLink garage door openers are included, as are the usual power door locks, power windows, personalized settings (dealer set), and tilt-telescope steering column.

Paint Color

Color choices vary; In 2010, ten exterior colors were offered:

Safety Features

Safety features include automatic locking seat belts, child restraint anchors, supplemental side mounted in-seat and curtain air bags, tire pressure monitoring, and the trio of electronic controls over traction, vehicle dynamics, and vehicle stability (the latter two with driver-operated cutoff switches).

Related Discussions

• Lexus IS Info Released From Lexus Newsroom - ClubLexus.com
• Lexus IS Third Generation -ClubLexus.com