2006-2007 Lexus IS 350

Pros :
- Attractive edgy styling.
- One hell of an engine.
- Ride very quiet for a sports sedan.
- Sensational braking performance.
- Well-appointed interior.

Cons :
- Computerized stability control cannot to be defeated.
- Tranny choice limited to an automatic.
- Ride too quiet for a sports sedan.
- Not enough steering feedback.
- Rear legroom shortage.

Interior :

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Press Coverage :
The longer, wider and roomier IS sedan arrives with a revamped high-output V6 engine, using an automatic six-speed transmission to drive the rear wheels. Combining a strong new body structure, new suspension systems, powerful new brakes and a sport-oriented Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, the 2006 IS sedan is poised to disrupt the class performance hierarchy.
As the second Lexus model to benefit from the revitalized design language, the all-new IS takes a notably sporty and more luxurious turn in order to bring demanding customers the best of both worlds.
The new 3.5-liter version delivers a best-in-class 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, resulting in an estimated zero-to-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds. The highly tuned 3.5-liter engine utilizes both port and direct fuel injection, which optimizes the fuel mixture, particularly in both light and medium load conditions, and creates a precise burn, higher output and lower emissions to aid drivability. This advanced direct fuel injection system provides a cooling effect in the cylinders, allowing for higher compression ratios. The results are substantial improvements in engine efficiency with increased power and improved fuel economy. A dual exhaust system reduces exhaust backpressure at high rpm while a variable valve system in the mufflers helps reduce noise at lower rpm. Extensive use of stainless steel in the exhaust system minimizes weight and improves durability.
The integration of these technologies contributes to segment-leading efficiency with the IS 350 obtaining an EPA-estimated combined fuel consumption of 24 mpg (21 mpg city/28 mpg highway). All 2006 IS models carry the EPA's Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification.
A new sequential-shift six-speed automatic is standard in the IS 350. This intelligent transmission is designed to provide smooth yet fast shifts for comfort and crisp response. With the automatic transmission, the driver has the option to use the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters inspired by Formula One race cars for maximum involvement and precise control for a more engaging driving experience.
The IS received an all-new front and rear suspension, steering and brake systems. The IS 350 receives Lexus' innovative VDIM system to provide superior handling dynamics and traction control, designed for a higher threshold for more spirited driving. The suspension designs optimize dynamic wheel alignment to help provide precise, confident handling and maximum tire grip. A performance suspension package with 18-inch wheels is available for even better handling response. At the front, a redesigned double-wishbone system with a high-mount upper control arm serves up several benefits. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components keep unsprung weight low, which helps the vehicle to remain stable on bumpy surfaces, improving ride comfort. The lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness. A new multilink rear suspension employs the same design approach that uses a combination of high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum components and places high value on precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the IS sport sedans ultra stable for confident driving. New monotube shock absorbers with rebound springs are used front and rear. The shocks employ much larger pistons than conventional twin-tube shocks and their increased size offers superior damping-force response and control, especially at low piston speeds. Multileaf linear control valves also help improve damping force, and rebound springs offer improved body control without the typical ride comfort tradeoffs.
A completely new Electric Power Steering (EPS) rack and pinion steering gear is now mounted ahead of the front axle centerline, providing more linear steering response, precise control and better straight-line stability. In addition, the vehicle-speed-sensitive system offers better control of steering assist, eliminates parasitic loss from a pump and reduces weight and complexity. The new system is easily adjusted to the driver's desired position via manual or an available new power-tilt telescope steering wheel.
All models feature large and powerful brakes. The IS 350 adds spiral fins to the vented 13.15-inch front rotors and aluminum four-piston calipers for excellent heat dissipation, low unsprung weight and tremendous stopping power. The brakes are controlled by a variable ratio-link-type pedal and tie-rod-type booster, both of which improve brake-pedal rigidity and system response.
Standard high-performance, low-profile 225/45R17 front tires and 245/45R17 (225/45R17 on AWD) rear tires firmly unite the IS with the road. Available as a standalone option or as part of the performance package, ultra high performance 225/40R18 front tires and 255/40R18 rear tires provide the serious enthusiast driver with the utmost cornering grip.
The available performance package offers auto aficionados a way to further enjoy their passion for driving by notably sharpening an already excellent dynamic package. The package includes 18-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension with firmer shocks and about a half-inch lower ride height.
With its styling clearly influenced by Lexus' recent LF-series concept cars, the 2006 IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the 2006 GS, while establishing their own distinctively upscale, sporty presence. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn body work, lend a muscular and sophisticated style. Both interior space and dynamic performance benefit from a 3.5-inch increase in overall length, an additional 3.0 inches in width, 2.4 inches in wheelbase and 1.9 inches in rear tread.
The roomy, luxurious and sporty cabin is complemented by intelligently designed displays and controls to make driving both simple and pleasurable. Bright, clear OptitronŽ gauges and smartly integrated metallic or available Bird's-eye Maple trim help create an elegant and streamlined environment. New interior materials and attention to detail leave no doubt that the all-new IS represents the heart of Lexus-quality.
The 2006 IS series' aerodynamic package adds greatly to the vehicles' performance, fuel economy and stability. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and innovative "air kick" tail lamps contribute to a low exterior coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.28.
The attention paid to aerodynamic drag is also evident here in the innovative A-pillar and outside rearview mirror design which lower wind noise from this notoriously difficult area. Special seals around the doors and windows also contribute to a further reduction in wind noise.
The luxurious and sporty demeanor of the newest IS sedans is enhanced by a comprehensive list of safety, comfort and luxury features seldom found in this class. For example, the available touch-screen navigation system with back-up camera and other features, such as new dual High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, AFS, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, SmartAccess keyless entry with push-button start and heated/ventilated front seats, are normally found only in more expensive luxury cars. Additionally, dual-zone automatic climate control lets back seat passengers enjoy their own A/C vents.
Like all Lexus vehicles, the 2006 IS series packs a wide range of dynamic and active safety systems like TRAC, ABS, Brake Assist, VSC and Daytime Running Lights (DRL). A new Tire Pressure Monitor system helps maintain tire pressures that are both safe and optimal for ride and handling.
The updated IS body construction plays a central role here as well, with a rigid passenger compartment and carefully designed substructures to absorb or dissipate collision energy. In addition to an advanced driver-side front airbag, the all-new IS adds a twin-chamber front passenger airbag. The IS also comes with driver and front passenger knee airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags and front seat side-mounted airbags to enhance passive safety. First introduced on the LS 430, Pre-Collision System (PCS) is now also available on the new IS. PCS uses a variety of systems that help determine in advance whether a collision is unavoidable. The system utilizes information from a millimeter-wave radar sensor to help detect obstacles in front of the car, along with a high-speed computer to detect vehicle speed plus variable inputs from steering angle and yaw rate. Depending on the information received, the system may then preemptively retract front seat belts and preinitialize Brake Assist so that increased brake power is applied the instant the brake pedal is depressed.
The Lexus Premium Audio System is standard in the IS. It offers 194 watts of music power and 13 speakers, outperforming systems considered premium in other vehicles. The system even includes a convenient mini-jack in the center console to play music from iPodŽs and MP3 players. The new IS now offers an optional Mark LevinsonŽ Premium Surround Sound Audio System to please the most discerning audiophiles. This system offers 300 watts of power, 14 speakers (including a center speaker and subwoofer) and 7.1-channel speaker architecture.
Lexus USA

The previous IS's cabin boasted that cool, chronograph watch-style IP, but looked plasticky for a Lexus. While that former trick touch is gone, the cabin has headed way upmarket. The main gauges are easy to read, nicely detailed, and offer driver-adjustable redline and speed warnings. All the surfaces are soft to the touch, and the switchgear is well laid out and of high quality. The wood trim sprinkled about is genuine and looks rich and lustrous; the sport package replaces it with a satin-finished faux-metal material. The optional nav screen is mounted high in the center stack and is large and easy to see and operate. The first-gen IS's rear seat was all but useless; this one is better, though still cramped for full-size adults.
"Butter smooth" describes the IS 350's V6 and it's quicker than just quick. This is a full second faster than a 330i and the G35. The six-speed auto is a worthy partner; shifts are crisp without being harsh in Drive mode or when playing the paddles. Even though the power peaks relatively high in the rpm band, there's good torque available down low. It's almost too quiet--how about a sport exhaust with the sport option pack?
The IS's handling persona fools you. Driven moderately, even up to eight-tenths or so, it feels solid and controlled. The ride is comfy without turning to mush, there's minimal wind or road noise, and the IS 350 tracks and goes where you point it. But push it, as you'll want to do with a real sport sedan, and the experience degrades and disconnects.
The front end lacks mechanical grip and fades to understeer all too soon. There's not nearly enough organic feel and feedback from the electronic steering. The Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System, which is designed to keep you safe under a wide variety of conditions and will do a good job of that, becomes an adversary when you want to haul butt, hang the tail out, and have some fun. It's too quick to bleed off speed and dial back throttle during hard cornering or transitions such as our slalom course. Lexus advises that these systems are tuned not to intrude too soon, and, for the casual sport-sedan customer, the calibration is about right. But Type A drivers will resent so much electro intrusion. Land on the brakes hard at 100-plus, and the car gets nervous and unsettled. Perhaps it's a too-soft suspension or a too conservative tire choice, but, no matter, it doesn't instill confidence.
Motor Trend

Lexus' VDIM can also be turned off, but then it magically switches itself back on at around 30 mph, and stays on. You can scramble the computer and cancel VDIM completely via a complicated pedal dance that must be performed every time you start the car, but Lexus doesn't want you to know about that. In fact, Lexus reps swear to us there is no way to circumvent the system.
So we left VDIM on for the slalom. The transmission we had once loved in the Lexus also decides it knows which gear is best for you and shifts down when it wants to.
The IS 350 had hinted it might be a contender. It feels well-balanced and tossable, controllable at the limit and great fun... as long as you keep it under 30 mph. Now how the heck are you supposed to do that? We have never gone through the slalom at anywhere near 30 mph. Even in the most bloated minivan or the most flatulent SUV, we are well over that speed. A car like this should achieve at least 45 mph in our tight, 490-foot slalom.
You cannot do the slalom at 30 and call yourself an enthusiast driver, or even alive and aware of your surroundings. And VDIM is not just a suggestion. It shuts down the whole operation by braking various corner wheels and cutting power to the engine until you are crawling around through the cones like a flopping drunk on the sidewalk. The real tragedy here is that the reason the Lexus doesn't clean the BMW's digital clock is simply because its darn electronics cannot be shut off without going all Norman Bates. After several runs trying to work things out, we had to divorce ourselves from the Lexus based on irreconcilable differences. Any speed over 30, 35 mph, and the car becomes hobbled. Lexus could suddenly find itself winning some of these inevitable comparison tests if it would just reprogram a few algorithms. For whatever reason, it won't.
AutoWeek

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History:
2001-2005 Lexus IS 350
2,997 cc / 215 hp / 218 lb-ft / 3255-3285 lbs / 0-60 mph 7.0 sec.