The heavily revised Lexus IS has touched down in South Africa, with the local range comprising only hybrid models.
While the outgoing line-up featured a turbocharged 2,0-litre engine, a naturally aspirated V6 unit and a hybrid powertrain option, the refreshed (likewise three-strong) range offers only the latter.
The IS300h arrangement again comprises a 133 kW/221 N.m naturally aspirated 2,5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine mated with a 650 V permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor (producing 105 kW). An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission drives the rear wheels.
The result is a combined total output of 164 kW, a claimed 5,2 L/100 km combined fuel figure and a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 8,7 seconds. Billed as a “self-charging” (rather than plug-in) hybrid, the IS300h can be driven in petrol-electric or pure electric modes.
Inside, the upgraded sedan gains a fresh touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
As before, Lexus SA offers three trim levels. The base EX configuration (R841 300) features items such as automatic dual-zone climate control, cruise control, a reversing camera, electrically adjustable front seats, faux leather trim, automatic LED headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The mid-tier SE model (R899 800) furthermore gains adaptive cruise control, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, a panoramic view monitor, a memory function for the driver’s electrically adjustable pew, ventilated front seats, an auto high-beam function for the LED headlamps, electro-chromatic side mirrors, stainless-steel door scuff plates, a moon roof, leather upholstery, blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist and a pre-crash system.
Finally, the flagship F Sport variant (R916 900) features model-specific exterior styling elements (such as new bumpers, grille, carbon-fibre rear spoiler and 19-inch alloys), plus adaptive variable suspension, a fourth (Sport+) drive mode and “F Sport” interior badging.
As many as ten paint colours are available, with three hues exclusive to the F Sport flagship. A seven-year/105 000 km warranty and a maintenance plan of the same duration are included in the price.
Pricing:
Lexus IS300h EX: R841 300
Lexus IS300h SE: R899 800
Lexus IS300h F Sport: R916 900
