2006 Lexus IS 250/350 Luxury Sport Sedans Set to Redefine Segment

With Unprecedented Levels of Performance and Luxury in All-New Design

In a setting that will challenge some of the best luxury-performance cars and their drivers, Lexus introduced the all-new IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans today. First shown at the New York International Auto Show last March, the new IS family fully reveals surprising levels of performance, luxury and safety in a new-look Lexus design.

The new IS sedans are designed to take Lexus to new heights of performance, luxury and style in the entry-luxury sport sedan segment,” said Deborah Meyer, Vice President of Marketing for Lexus. “Our customers want best-in-class on every level and we have no desire to disappoint them.”

Offering three distinctly different models, the longer, wider and roomier IS sedan arrives with a new family of high-output V6 engines, using manual and automatic six-speed transmissions driving the rear wheels, or all four with available all-wheel drive. Combining a strong new body structure, new suspension systems, powerful new brakes and a sport-oriented Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system (IS 350), the new IS sedans are poised to disrupt the class performance hierarchy.

As the second Lexus model to benefit from a new Lexus design language, the all-new IS takes a notably sporty, yet more luxurious turn, in order to bring the best of both worlds to demanding customers.

Expanded Lineup and New Features Broaden Appeal
Three models form the basis of the new IS family:
• The IS 250 features a responsive 2.5-liter V6 engine and either a six-speed manual transmission, or a new six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters routing power to the rear wheels.
• The IS 250 AWD also has the six-speed paddle-shift automatic and delivers the power to all four wheels for driving confidence in slippery conditions.
• The top-line IS 350 is powered by a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine backed by the paddle-shifted six-speed automatic transmission.

In addition to the all-new powertrains, the new IS family also brings a fresh array of standard and available features designed to enhance every aspect of owning and driving an IS.

Notable standard equipment such as the convenient SmartAccess keyless entry and engine start system, six-disc in-dash CD changer, driver- and front-passenger knee airbags, 13-speaker premium audio and dual-zone automatic climate control are a luxury statement by themselves.

The new IS also brings premium options more often associated with higher-priced models including the Adaptive Front headlamp System (AFS), heated and ventilated front seats, Pre-Collision System (PCS), a power tilt-telescope steering wheel, and a new 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system among others.

Powerful Technology for New V6 Engine Family
Two brand-new V6 engines debut in the new IS sedans. The 2.5-liter version found in the IS 250 uses dual Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) and a new direct-to-cylinder fuel injection system to help deliver 204 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque. The new 3.5-liter version develops a best-in-class 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in an estimated 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds.

The 3.5-liter engine utilizes both port- and direct-fuel injection as part of its higher state of tune. This optimizes the fuel mixture, particularly in both light and medium load conditions, creating a precise burn, higher output, aiding drivability, lower emissions and fuel economy. The new direct fuel injection system provides a cooling effect in the cylinders, which allowing higher compression ratios. The results are substantial improvements in engine efficiency with increased power and fuel economy.

Both engines also benefit from reduced internal friction via chain driven camshafts and roller rocker arms, again aiding efficiency. And both use aluminum heads and cylinder blocks that feature special cast-in “spiny” cylinder liners to improve liner stability and cooling by increasing surface contact area with the cylinder block.

A dual exhaust system reduces exhaust backpressure at high rpm while a variable valve system in the mufflers helps reduce noise at lower rpm. Extensive use of stainless steel in the exhaust system minimizes weight while improving durability.

The combination of these technologies contributes to substantial improvements in both performance and fuel economy. The prelimary combined miles-per-gallon estimate for the IS 250 and IS 350 is between the mid-20s and high 20s. All 2006 IS models carry an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) emissions certification from the EPA.

Transmission Speeds in Multiples of Six
Standard in the IS 250 (not available in the IS 250 AWD and IS 350), a new six-speed manual transmission is designed to take full advantage of its free-revving 2.5-liter V6 engine. Gear ratios are carefully matched to the engine horsepower and torque characteristics.

A new sequential-shift six-speed automatic will also be offered in the IS 250 and will be standard in the IS 250 AWD and IS 350. It’s designed to provide smooth yet crisp shifts for comfort and response.

Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the automatic are designed to provide maximum involvement and control for driving enthusiasts. Robust construction and mounting help ensure rapid operation and response with appropriate feedback.

Sophisticated Dynamics Matches Aggressive Power
All-new front and rear suspension, steering and brake systems unite with standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) in the IS 250 while the IS 350 receives Lexus’ new Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system to provide superior dynamics and control, while continuing the IS legacy of driving fun. The new suspension designs optimize dynamic wheel alignment to help provide precise, confident handling and maximum tire grip. A performance suspension package with 18-inch wheels and tires is available for even better handling response.

At the front, a redesigned double wishbone system with a high-mount upper control arm serves up several benefits. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components keep unsprung weight low, which helps keep the vehicle stable on bumpy surfaces while improving ride comfort. The lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness.

A new multi-link rear suspension employs the same design approach that places high value on precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping to make the new IS ultra stable and yet exciting to drive. A combination of high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum components is also utilized, again to improve both handling and ride comfort.

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.

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