The Lexus IS300h has been updated with a new front mask and a large cockpit display.

LEXUS IS300h

Improvements made with “maturity” as the keyword

Since its first-generation debut in 1999, the Lexus IS has pursued the “fun of driving” as a compact, rear-wheel-drive sports sedan. Its high driving performance and sporty design have been well-received, and since its debut, it has sold a total of approximately 1.3 million units in approximately 40 countries and regions.

The keyword for this partial improvement is “maturity,” and the IS has refined the “comfortable driving experience that allows the driver to interact with the car” and “aggressive, sporty design” that it has pursued up until now.

Regarding driving performance, the electric power steering (EPS) has been revamped, and a variable gear has been adopted for the rack gear. At intersections and winding roads, it is now possible to trace the intended path even with a small steering angle, and it has also achieved stability in straight lines. In addition, the AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension System) has also been improved, achieving both vehicle stability and a comfortable ride.

Shin Maezawa, product planning manager at Lexus International, added the following about the new IS300h:

“The IS has evolved over the generations based on the principles of ‘comfortable driving’ and ‘sporty design.’ The development concept for this latest improvement is ‘maturity.’ We have revamped parts of the exterior, including the front face, as well as the interior, to further refine the IS identity.”

“The electronic platform has evolved into a new generation, and the advanced safety equipment, Lexus Safety System +, has been updated to the latest specifications. This is not a major change, but rather an enhancement to further pursue the IS identity. We have refined the essence of the IS in all aspects, including its distinctive driving performance, design, and convenience. We have arrived at this new IS now that it has reached maturity, so please take a ride in the car and experience it for yourself.”

Large display installed in the cockpit

The interior of the partially improved Lexus IS300h. — The interior features a larger 12.3-inch center display and TFT LCD meter, providing high visibility and operability.

The exterior features a new front face design that further emphasizes the low center of gravity and wide stance, expressing a powerful and masculine styling.

The interior has been updated to a design that allows the driver to concentrate on driving, taking into consideration functionality, which is the most important aspect of the cockpit of a compact FR sports sedan. The center display and TFT LCD meter have been enlarged to 12.3 inches, achieving high visibility and operability.

The top of the console and the start switch bezel feature a newly developed ornament panel called “Forged bamboo.” The distinctive shadows of the bamboo fiber create a powerful, dynamic feel and a sporty interior for the IS. The interior color is a newly developed “PROMINENCE” color inspired by the crimson flames covering the sun, making it possible to coordinate an aggressive, sporty interior.

In conjunction with this partial improvement, a special edition “F SPORT Mode Black V” has been introduced. The car is equipped with black-painted BBS forged aluminum wheels, and red brake calipers with the “EXUS” logo can be added as an option. The interior also features ultra suede seats, center console, and door trim.