Lexus has announced the arrival of the new IS in the Middle East, marking the latest evolution of the compact front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) sports sedan that has pursued the joy of driving since the first-generation model debuted in 1999.
With refinement in both performance and design as the guiding direction, development of the IS350 focuses on elevating steering feel, vehicle stability, ride comfort, and cockpit usability, all key elements for a compact FR sports sedan intended to keep the driver fully engaged with the road.
To further enhance driving performance, the Electric Power Steering system is revamped with the adoption of a variable gear rack. This supports more precise path tracing with minimal steering input at intersections and through successive corners, while maintaining stability during straight-line driving.
In parallel, the Adaptive Variable Suspension system is improved to deliver a high-level balance between vehicle stability and reduced road-surface shock, helping to achieve a more comfortable and composed driving feel without compromising the direct connection that defines the Lexus Driving Signature.
Lexus IS350’s enhanced safety features and redesigned look
Supporting safe and secure driving, the new IS350 advances the Lexus Safety System + and introduces additional features designed to make long-distance travel more relaxed and comfortable. Expanded safety and driver assistance functions are complemented by Lexus Teammate Advanced Drive, an enhanced driver assistance system that supports highway driving.
On the exterior, the new IS350 introduces a redesigned front face that emphasizes a low center of gravity and wide stance, reinforcing a powerful and sharp styling identity. The F SPORT model further enhances this dynamic appeal with a newly designed rear spoiler that improves aerodynamic performance, as well as newly styled 19-inch lightweight aluminum wheels that reflect the IS’s sharp, responsive driving character. The exterior color lineup expands to a total of eight options, including the addition of Neutrino Gray, a new hue that expresses a dynamic sense of motion through its hard-toned light gray base infused with metallic highlights, offering more choice to suit diverse lifestyles and preferences.
Inside, Lexus places particular focus on the cockpit, an essential priority in a compact FR sports sedan, to ensure an environment that helps to concentrate on driving. The center display is enlarged to 12.3 inches, delivering high visibility and intuitive operation while aligning with the driver’s natural line of sight. The TFT LCD meter in front of the driver has also been increased to 12.3 inches, providing clear, easy-to-read graphics that communicate information directly and intuitively, supporting confident decision-making in real time.
The interior design further evolves with newly developed “Forged Bamboo” ornamentation applied to the upper console and start switch bezel. The natural bamboo fibers create a distinctive “In-ei” shading effect, adding an expressive sense of depth that complements the IS350’s dynamic energy and enhances the sporty feel of the cabin. Additionally, a new interior color, Prominence, inspired by the vivid glow of solar flares, is introduced to create an aggressive and sporty cabin atmosphere, as per the statement.
Lexus IS350: A New Standard in Driver-vehicle Interaction
Commenting on the launch of the latest evolution of the IS, Lexus International Chief Engineer, Yasushi Muto, said that, “In refining the IS, our unwavering focus was on achieving true dialogue between car and driver, where the driver’s intentions are faithfully conveyed to the vehicle, and the car’s responses are clearly felt in return. With that ideal in mind, we’ve pursued development without compromise, always aiming for the next level.”
Muto added that “building on the IS’s distinctive ride comfort and outstanding vehicle control, the model has evolved to deliver an even more engaging experience from within the cabin. This evolution is driven by careful attention to detail in the redesigned interior, advancements in preventive safety technologies through Lexus Safety System +, and the integration of the latest multimedia system.”
