The first TRUE 3-series challenger? The particulars-Part 2

2006 Lexus IS 250/350/4-4-4-4



New mono-tube shock absorbers with rebound springs are used front and rear. These make use of much larger pistons than conventional twin-tube shocks of the same size and their larger size offers superior damping force response and control, especially at low piston speeds. Multi-leaf linear control valves also help in this regard. The rebound springs offer improved body control without typical ride comfort tradeoffs.

A completely new Electric Power Steering (EPS) rack and pinion steering gear is now mounted ahead of the front axle centerline, providing more linear steering response, precise control and better straight-line stability. In addition, the vehicle speed-sensitive system offers better control of steering assist, eliminates parasitic loss from a pump, and reduces weight and complexity. The new system is easily adjusted to the driver’s comfortable position via manual or an available new power tilt/telescope steering wheel.

Large and powerful new brakes are used on all IS models. The IS 350 adds spiral fins to the vented 13.15-inch front rotors and aluminum four-piston calipers for excellent heat dissipation, low unsprung weight, and tremendous stopping power. They’re controlled by a variable ratio link-type pedal and tie rod-type booster, both of which improve brake-pedal rigidity and system response.

Standard high-performance low-profile 225/45R17 front tires and 245/45R17 (225/45R17 on AWD) rear tires, link the new IS firmly with the road. Optional ultra-high performance 225/40R18 front tires and 255/40R18 rear tires provide the serious enthusiast driver with the utmost cornering grip. They’re available as a stand-alone option or as part of the performance package.
The available performance package offers enthusiast drivers a way to further enjoy their passion for cars by notably sharpening an already excellent dynamic package. The performance package includes 18-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension with firmer shocks and about a half-inch lower ride height.

Power + Control = Driving Pleasure
All of the sophisticated dynamic hardware is managed by a Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System (VDIM) on the IS 350. Most recently introduced on the 2006 Lexus GS 430 and RX 400h, VDIM is designed to complement the inherently excellent dynamics of the new IS.

2006 Lexus IS 250/350/5-5-5-5

VDIM enhances handling, traction and brake control systems that normally react to an already unstable condition by anticipating tire slippage before a skid, slide or wheel spin occurs and make stabilizing corrections that maximize dynamic capability. This coupled with tight integration of all systems makes VDIM feel transparent to the driver, minimizing distractions during the driving task.

To do this, VDIM uses an active-control strategy that takes its cues from a comprehensive range of sensors, including steering angle, yaw rate, deceleration, brake pressure, brake pedal stroke, wheel speed and others. Their signals are used individually by the various traction control systems and collectively by VDIM. These systems include electronic throttle, traction control, ABS, EBD, VSC and EPS.

For the IS, VDIM is programmed to allow drivers to probe deeper into the limits of handling before discreetly, but effectively applying braking, throttle and steering assistance. This approach is designed to maximize driving fun without giving away control to the elements. At the same time, control in marginal driving conditions is maintained to help drivers on even the most difficult roads.

Fresh, Dynamic, Functional Design—with Luxury in Abundance

With its styling clearly influenced by Lexus recent LF-series of concept cars, the new IS shows a strong family resemblance with its stable mate, the 2006 GS, while capturing its own distinctively sporty, yet upscale essence. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, lends a muscular and sophisticated style.

Both interior space and dynamic performance benefit from increases in overall length (3.5 in.), width (3.0 in.), wheelbase (+2.4 in.) and tread (1.9 in. rear).

The roomy, luxurious yet sporty cabin is complemented by intelligently designed displays and controls designed to make driving both simple and pleasurable. Bright, clear Optitron gauges, and smartly integrated metallic and available bird’s eye maple trim, help create a luxurious, yet no-nonsense ambience. New interior materials and attention to detail leaves no doubt that this newest IS represents the heart of Lexus – quality.

2006 Lexus IS 250/350/6-6-6-6

An important contributor to performance, fuel economy and stability lies in the new IS aerodynamic package. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail shape of the trunk lid, and specially shaped “air kick” tail lamps contribute to a low exterior drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.28.

The low Cd is enhanced with careful attention to underbody-airflow management, which not only reduces drag but is also designed to minimize and balance front/rear lift. Carefully designed underbody elements help smooth the surfaces or re-direct air around obtrusions in order to promote airflow and minimize turbulence under the car.

The resulting low-drag body makes best use of engine power, and the low lift enhances high-speed stability and handling balance.

Luxury, Comfort and Convenience Not to be Missed
While the sound of more than 300 hp will resonate with driving enthusiasts, everyone will appreciate Lexus’ ability to keep undesirable noises from spoiling the party. A highly rigid yet lightweight body creates the starting point. To this Lexus adds strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including Lexus-like attention to detail such as noise-absorbing sun visors. Acoustic-windshield glass also contributes to the quiet cabin.

The attention paid to aerodynamic drag also pays off here with low wind noise – above and below the car. IS designers also gave careful thought to the A-pillar and outside rear-view mirror shapes in order to suppress wind noise in a notoriously difficult location. And special seals around doors and windows help keep what little noise is generated, outside.

The newly luxurious and sporty demeanor of the newest IS sedans are fed by a comprehensive list of safety, comfort and luxury features seldom found in its class. For example, SmartAccess keyless entry with push-button start is standard, and features such as a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and touch-screen navigation system with back-up camera are available.

These and other features available on the new IS, such as new dual (low and high beam) High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and heated/ventilated front seats are normally found only in more expensive luxury cars.

A dual zone automatic climate control keeps temperatures from becoming a point of argument, while back seat passengers enjoy their own A/C vents.

2006 Lexus IS 250/350/7-7-7-7

Safety in Mind

Like all Lexus vehicles, the new IS packs a wide range of dynamic and active safety systems like Traction Control (TRAC), anti-lock brakes (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Daytime Running Lamps (DRL). A new Tire Pressure Monitor System helps the driver maintain tire pressures that are both safe and optimal for ride and handling.

The new IS body construction plays a central role here as well, with a rigid passenger cell and careful design of sub-structures to absorb or dissipate collision energy. In addition to an advanced driver-side front airbag, the all-new IS has a new twin-chamber front passenger airbag, a world-first development designed to reduced secondary injuries related to airbag deployment. The IS also comes with driver and front passenger knee airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags and front seat side-mounted airbags to greatly enhance the passive safety of the new IS. First introduced on the LS 430, Lexus’ pre-Collision System (PCS) is now also available on the new IS. The PCS uses a millimeter-wave radar sensor to help detect obstacles in front of the car and a pre-collision system computer with vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs that help to determine in advance whether a collision is unavoidable. It then preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking is applied the instant the brake pedal is depressed.

Music Power – With Sophistication

The standard audio system in the IS plays like the Lexus Premium Audio System it is.
With 194 watts of music power and 13 speakers, it puts many “premium” systems in stark contrast. It includes a convenient mini-jack in the center console that will allow iPod and MP3 players to send their music through the IS’ amplifiers and speakers.

Like its Lexus stable mates, the new IS now offers an optional Mark Levinson Premium Audio System to please the most discerning audiophiles. The system offers 300 watts of power, 14 speakers (including a center speaker and sub woofer) and 7.1-channel speaker architecture.

The new Lexus IS luxury sport sedans will go on sale in North America in October. Prices will be announced near the on-sale date.