Though technically a heavy refresh of third-generation model (XE30), the 2021 Lexus IS was born and bred at Toyota’s Shimoyama Technical Center Test Track. Recreating the toughest and most challenging roads in the world, including the Nürburgring Nordschleife, this latest-generation sports sedan has increased levels of rigidity resulting in an improved level of driving performance and riding comfort.

Emphasizing this sense of dynamism, the 2021 Lexus IS runs true to the brand’s “wide and low” design DNA. Designers start by widening it by 30 millimeters, and on top of that, add deeply sculpted three-dimensional forms. Without a doubt though, the most remarkable exterior feature is the unified taillamp. 19-inch alloy wheels—dark metallic finish on the F Sport—is standard. The IS300h rides on 235/40R19, while the IS F Sport gets mixed sizes with 235/40R19 at the front, and 265/35R19 at the back.

Lexus has also worked on the color palette with two newly developed Chromatic colors joining the line-up. Special colors such as Sonic Iridium radiates contrasting shadows to accentuate its shape. Meanwhile, Sonic Chrome exhibits an elegant, dark gray tone with a high-gloss finish. Other colors include White Nova, Radiant Red Contrast Layering, and Heat Blue Contrast for the F Sport, and Sonic Quartz and Red Mica Crystal Shine for the Hybrid Premier.

The 2021 Lexus features a human-centered cabin. The horizontal instrument panel design is decidedly driver-focused. The steering wheel and shift knob are trimmed in hand-selected perforated leather, while other daring elements include the accent stitching along the dash and the jet-turbine-like circular air vents. Both the driver and front passenger feature eight-way power adjustment with built-in ventilation.

The interior is available in various color schemes based on variant. The IS300h Premier comes in Black, Dark Rose, and Ochre with complementing stitch patterns and accent trims, while the IS F Sport can be had in F Sport White, F Sport Black, and F Sport Flare Red. On both variants the center console panel is finished in Piano Black along with touch-sensitive temperature controls.

For its infotainment system, the touchscreen system has been enlarged and moved forward for easier operability. Both models offer a 10-speaker surround sound system, with the F Sport coming with a 10.3-inch Electro Multi Vision touchscreen, while the IS30h using an 8-inch system. Both have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.

In terms of performance, the IS300h uses a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine mated to an E-CVT transmission, while the IS F Sport has a normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 with 315 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque mated to an 8-speed automatic.

Inspiring even more driving confidence, the 2021 Lexus IS comes with LSS+2—a suite of the latest Active Safety features, such as the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Automatic High Beam. 

While maneuvering at slower speed and tighter areas the rearward facing camera and backing-up guide monitor adds ease of convenience. The Parking Support Brake is also especially useful when backing out. For even more peace of mind and added safety, occupants are protected by 10 airbags. A pop-up hood reduces injuries to pedestrians in the event of a collision as well.

A catalyst for future Lexus models and imbued with the Lexus Driving Signature in mind, the all-new Lexus IS is priced at P 3.808 million for the IS 350 F Sport, and P 3.328 million for the IS300h Premier. It’s now available for viewing at Lexus Manila.