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Lexus has signed up the new IS300 to do the fighting, and on paper at least, comes in with equal or better credentials than the 3 series cars. Lexus may have shaken the stigma of being dressed up Toyotas, but takes a huge step entering the market where real performance talks, and pretenders walk.
Unlike competitive models that offer base and optional powertrains, the IS 300 will come standard with a 215-horsepower, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine from the GS 300 that produces 218 lb.-ft of peak torque. The engine employs continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) to optimize valve overlap throughout the speed range, eliminating the usual compromise between low-end torque and high-rpm horsepower.
The IS pulls solidly in any gear at any speed, and is ideally matched to an electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission with Formula One-inspired E-shift steering-wheel gear-selection controls. The shift buttons are on the front and rear of the wheel, eliminating confusion that often occurs with toggle controls when the wheel is turned. The beefy tires grip the road, yet Lexus engineers tune the suspension with enough give to avoid the jarring of some pure performance sedans.
Lexus engineers designed the sedan with the best possible weight distribution, placing heavy components, such as the battery and fuel tank, toward the center, and moving the engine back behind the front axle line. The center of gravity on the IS is low, and a double wishbone suspension is fitted front and rear to achieve a balance between comfortable ride and precise handling.
The Lexus IS300 has a reinforced safety cell around the passenger compartment, with front and rear crumple zones. All five seating positions have three-point safety harnesses. Dual front and front side airbags are standard.
Serious competition awaits the IS300, which includes the BMW 323i/328i, and the Audi A4. Making things even tougher is that these two competitors, depending on the model, offer optional engines choices, body styles, and even all wheel drive systems, of which the Lexus does not.
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