Redesigned Lexus IS models debut

It took three years of development but Lexus’ 2014 IS 250s and 350s hit showroom floors this month, and sales reports indicate the marque has hit this one out of the park.

The body and interior of the automobile have been redesigned. Its distinct lateral hood creases stand out, resting higher than the muscular fenders. All lines begin at the nose, with a pinched wraparound grille that tapers to the rear, which has elongated taillights that slope downward.

The sporty luxury sedan’s interior is more spacious than previous models with two-tenths of an inch more headroom, seven-tenths of an inch more shoulder room and an increase of 1.6 inches in leg room.

The F Sport model also has borrowed some technology from the automaker’s exotic LFA sports car including a digitized tachometer that occupies a central ring and slides horizontally depending on the menu. Also, this is the first time Lexus has developed a transmission that uses G-force Artificial Intelligence technology that shifts based on G-forces.

Building a “fun-to-drive” sedan was the main of the car’s development, according to Junichi Furuyama, chief engineer for the Lexus IS, which hasn’t undergone a redesign since 2006. Six-speed automatic transmissions are available on the IS 250 and IS 350 AWD. An eight-speed automatic transmission is available on the IS 350 RWD model; V-6 engines come in either 2.5L or 3.5L.

“We sold seven IS models so far this month,” said Bill Garness, general sales manager of Lexus of Las Vegas. “The IS will more than likely be our No. 1 seller this month. Lexus is putting huge support behind this car and customers love the cars.”

Lexus of Henderson was allocated 14 models this month: four IS 350s and nine IS 250s. According to Jim Stone, new car sales manager, all four IS 350s sold immediately, as well as three IS 250s.

Stone said that both models’ roof gutters are seamless, which add rigidity to the one-piece metal body and greatly improve handling. Also unique to the 2014 models are built-in light-emitting-diode running lights in the bumpers.

Lexus of Las Vegas is at 6600 W. Sahara Ave. For information, call 702-942-6600 or visit www.lexusoflasvegas.com

Lexus of Henderson is at Valley Automall, 7736 Eastgate Road. For information, call 702-228-7736 or visit www.lexusofhenderson.com.