2011 Lexus IS Facelift Revealed Before Paris Debut

The Lexus IS range has been updated with exterior and interior changes, new equipments and revised engines. Scheduled for debut at the Paris Motor Show later this month, the IS's latest updates, said to be the most significant since it was launched in 2005, should enable it to better compete with German opposition, in particular BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Styling tweaks across the range include a new grille, LED daytime running lights, reworked headlamps and tail lights as well as new exterior colours and alloy wheel designs to choose from. New optional equipments include rain-sensing auto wipers, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, heated front seats and new leather upholstery.

The 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine powering the IS 250 and IS 250C has been made Euro V-compliant; power and torque levels remain unchanged but fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced. A revised 2.2-litre diesel engine powering the new entry-level IS 200d has been detuned to improve economy and emissions.

The F-Sport variant, which sits one rung below the range-topping IS F, receives redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels, a restyled grille, a deep front spoiler and a brake light-integrated rear spoiler on the outside. Inside, the leather steering wheel, gear lever and sports pedals are unique to F-Sport, along with front seats covered in leather and Alcantara and touches of titanium-effect trim.