Lexus IS

Lexus Tackles BMW and Audi with New Sports Sedan

DETROIT - In an effort to attract younger, less-affluent buyers while injecting some excitement into an aging lineup, Lexus announced in Detroit on Tuesday that a new sports sedan will arrive in North America during calendar year 2000. Targeted in the Lexus crosshairs are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series.

Called the IS, the new car will be the smallest sedan in the Lexus lineup, and arguably the most attractive. Power will come from a six-cylinder engine with variable valve timing, but final displacement for the North American market hasn't been determined. Expect both a manual and an automatic transmission to be available, as in the Audi and BMW. The front-engine, rear-drive car has been engineered to optimize weight distribution, and Lexus spokespeople assured reporters that the performance of the IS will match it's styling, which was characterized as "aggressive and powerful."

With a double-wishbone suspension front and rear, the IS should provide excellent handling without sacrificing ride comfort. Extensively tested in Europe, the IS spent countless hours in development on Germany's Nurburgring circuit.

Inside, a speedometer gauge resembling a chronograph dominates the dash. Audio and ventilation controls are clustered on the center console, while other secondary switchgear surrounds the steering wheel where it can be easily reached. There's enough space for four adults, and the trunk will accommodate 14.1 cubic feet of cargo.

Lexus gave journalists a hint about what the IS nomenclature means. They told the throng of reporters; "The IS is a car for individuals. It's invigorating. And it's international." Indeed, the IS won the 1999 Japan Car of the Year award. If the company's track record is any indication, Lexus will win more accolades when the IS arrives in North America a little more than a year from now.