Lexus IS 350, 2009
The Lexus IS sedans showcase revised styling and gain enhanced interior function and improved handling for 2009. New suspension and steering tuning improve stability and control, and the Lexus IS 250 model, in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, gets the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. Already standard on the Lexus IS 350 model, VDIM integrates all of the car's dynamic-control systems to provide superior handling and traction.
The Lexus IS grille and front bumper cover are revised, as are the rear bumper cover and taillight clusters. New turn signals are now integrated into the exterior mirrors, and the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels feature new designs for 2009. On rear-wheel drive models, the 18-inch wheels can now be equipped with all-season tires.
Inside the Lexus IS Lexus enhanced form and function with a revised instrument panel center cluster. The paddle shifters now function in D mode, and some controls have been changed for improved convenience. The rear seat headrests are now foldable to aid rear visibility. New interior colors include Ecru (replacing Cashmere) and Light Gray (replacing Sterling), both accented by new contrast stitching on the seats, door panels, and console lid.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The 2009 Lexus IS line offers three models: The rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 350, the rear-drive Lexus IS 250 and an all-wheel drive Lexus IS 250. The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The Lexus IS 350's 3.5-liter V6 delivers 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM along with 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm and can accelerate the car from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines use aluminum cylinder blocks and heads and employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS is engineered to provide for a sporty driving experience. Its double-wishbone front suspension features a high-mount upper control arm, and the lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness. The multilink rear suspension emphasizes precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the Lexus IS sport sedans ultra-stable for confident driving. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components reduce unsprung weight, helping the Lexus IS remain stable on bumpy surfaces and improving ride comfort.
Safety/Security Features
Passive-safety technology in the Lexus IS begins with a reinforced passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
Standard amenities for the Lexus IS models include 10-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on Lexus IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The Lexus IS 250 AWD model in addition features standard heated, leather-trimmed seats.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the Lexus IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and "air kick" tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
Interior Design
The Lexus IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim, help create an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
The Lexus IS grille and front bumper cover are revised, as are the rear bumper cover and taillight clusters. New turn signals are now integrated into the exterior mirrors, and the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels feature new designs for 2009. On rear-wheel drive models, the 18-inch wheels can now be equipped with all-season tires.
Inside the Lexus IS Lexus enhanced form and function with a revised instrument panel center cluster. The paddle shifters now function in D mode, and some controls have been changed for improved convenience. The rear seat headrests are now foldable to aid rear visibility. New interior colors include Ecru (replacing Cashmere) and Light Gray (replacing Sterling), both accented by new contrast stitching on the seats, door panels, and console lid.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The 2009 Lexus IS line offers three models: The rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 350, the rear-drive Lexus IS 250 and an all-wheel drive Lexus IS 250. The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The Lexus IS 350's 3.5-liter V6 delivers 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM along with 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm and can accelerate the car from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines use aluminum cylinder blocks and heads and employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS is engineered to provide for a sporty driving experience. Its double-wishbone front suspension features a high-mount upper control arm, and the lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness. The multilink rear suspension emphasizes precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the Lexus IS sport sedans ultra-stable for confident driving. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components reduce unsprung weight, helping the Lexus IS remain stable on bumpy surfaces and improving ride comfort.
Safety/Security Features
Passive-safety technology in the Lexus IS begins with a reinforced passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
Standard amenities for the Lexus IS models include 10-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on Lexus IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The Lexus IS 250 AWD model in addition features standard heated, leather-trimmed seats.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the Lexus IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and "air kick" tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
Interior Design
The Lexus IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim, help create an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
