Lexus IS250/350 final HP figures

While a former president might have quibbled over the definition of IS, Lexus wants to be perfectly clear what it has in mind with the second generation of its sporty, entry-luxury sedan. The wheelbase is longer; the car is wider. The newer, sleeker design of the IS350 shown in New York is based on the automaker's L-finesse design theme, putting an emphasis on sporty, yet minimalist design elements. There's nothing minimal about the IS350's numbers, however. The top-line model will be powered by a beefy 3.5-liter V-6 turning out 300 hp. It will boast a new front and rear suspension, and a sporty new version of the automaker's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, or VDIM, stability control system. The IS250 will feature a 200-horsepower, 2.5-liter V-6, and will be offered in both rear- and all-wheel-drive powertrain configurations.

I'm interested to see the torque on the 3.5L. There is a pretty big gap in base to high end HP.

The Avalons 280hp 3.5L makes 260lb-ft of tq @ 4,700rpms. I think the 300hp version going into the IS is going to make a bit more @ a slightly higher rpm. Just my guess.

I watched the press conference live as well as saw transcripts and pictures of the marketing literature. It was specifically said in every case that the IS250 will have 200+ hp. As in at LEAST 200. Personally I keep hearing 220 as the expected figure. Which still isn't that great, but you have to go look at BMW's base offering which is a 184hp I6... even their all new 2006's most powerful engine option is still only going to be 255hp (up from 225 in 2005 I think)

The 300hp figure was also quoted as 300+, although I would be surprised to see it much higher. Torque was quoted as 275+ with very usable/drivable curve.