2011 Lexus IS 250 and 200d get facelift in Europe

Sporty, smooth and unmistakeably Lexus, the IS has undergone its most significant revisions since the current generation model was launched in 2005. Changes for the 2011 model year, to be formally revealed at the Paris motor show, are not simply a matter of sharper styling: Lexus has gone to the heart of the ownership experience to make the IS an even more appealing prospect, not least to those choosing it as a company car.

Central to this strategy is the introduction of the new IS 200d, which delivers improved fuel economy, lower emissions and reduced tax bills. Replacing the previous IS 220d, it is available to order now, priced from £24,350 (IS 200d SE) on the road.

The V6 petrol engine featured in the IS 250 and IS 250C coupe-convertible with six-speed automatic transmission has also been revised to meet future Euro5 emissions standards, achieving better fuel economy and CO2 emissions with no penalty in performance.

Focus of the styling changes is the F-Sport grade, which now echoes even more loudly the looks of its ultra-high-performance sister, the IS F, to strengthen its appeal among younger drivers. Meanwhile all IS models equipped with high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights gain LED daytime running lights and across the range there are new wheel designs, new rear light designs and a revised choice of exterior colours.

Replacing the previous IS 220d, the new IS 200d delivers stronger fuel economy, lower CO2 emissions and a more refined and smoother drive.

The new 148 hp version of the 2.2L diesel engine benefits from detailed engineering revisions and is equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet Euro 5 emissions standards and enhance the engine’s driving quality.

The changes include a re-shaped combustion chamber and the use of new-generation piezoelectric fuel injectors to give a more efficient, cleaner and complete fuel burn. Pressure in the common rail injection system has been increased. a higher flow exhaust gas recirculation valve has been introduced and the adoption of a new oil-cooled, variable nozzle turbocharger improves torque performance at low speeds and cuts overall engine noise.

Maximum power of 148bhp is delivered at 3,600 rpm, allowing for 0-62 mph acceleration in 10.2 seconds. Combined cycle fuel consumption is 55.4 mpg, compared to 50.4 mpg for the IS 220d.

For the 2011 model year the IS 250 becomes and automatic-only model, with revisions to the powertrain that ensure compliance with Euro 5 emissions standards.

Power and torque are unchanged from the super-smooth V6 are unchanged at 205bhp and 252Nm, but combined cycle fuel consumption improves from 31.7 to 33.6mpg, with a concurrent fall in CO2 output.

Similarly, the improved engine is also under the hood of the 2011 IS 250C coupe-cabriolet, with an improvement in combined cycle performance to 30.7 mpg.

Changes to the IS 250 and 220d F-Sport models’ exterior and interior make them even more of a stand-out choice, heavily influenced by the styling of the ultra-high-performance IS F.

For 2011 F-Sport specification includes a new deep front spoiler with faired-in fog lights, new grille design and a rear spoiler with integrated stop light. The new-design 18-inch alloy wheels have a dark silver finish and black center Lexus roundel, directly inspired by the IS F.

Inside the sports factor continues with F-Sport steering wheel, gear lever and sports pedals and front seats finished in leather and Alcantara. Extra touches of titanium-effect trim and a dark, anthracite roof liner are also introduced.

Revisions elsewhere in the IS range included improvements to the SE-I specification to introduce rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming electrochromic rear view mirror and a new leather upholstery with heated front seats. There is a modest change to the rear light clusters and on IS 250 the exhaust tailpipe has a bolder circular profile in place of the previous ellipse.

New-look 17 and 18-inch wheels are available and the choice of exterior colors has been adjusted, with Ultra Blue metallic making its debut in the range.

 

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