3.5L GR-series V6 w/ direct injection. 306 horsepower, 277 torque. Don't make me go back and find the people who said it'd never hit 300 or above.

http://www.lexus.com/2006is_preview/...05:TPE:Preview

They still have a lot of info to fill inbetween the lines. But sounds like it's on the winning track.

For those that don't know, the IS250 with only the standard features (still well equipped, including the 'base model' 10-speaker MP3/CD/DVD-Audio pioneer stereo), 10 airbags, vehicle stability control, leather, etc, is expected to be well under 30k sticker price including destination. (by well I mean as low as 28k, but that hasn't been confirmed yet)

6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic w/ steering wheel paddle shifters

The loaded 350 with navigation, levinson, VDIM, dynamic cruise control, dynamic bixenon lights, etc, etc will be in the high 30s.

The IS is built in the 2006+ GS' chassis for the most part.

Who else is in line?

I will once I can afford it.

Maybe by then they'll have the rumored 400 horsepower IS500 released.

 

Lexus is not real big around here. Not a lot of concern.

 

Yeah I know. They produce a lot of cars that are more comfort/quality oriented than performance-oriented, which doesn't do much for most people.

But this new IS should be an exception. I mean by the specs I see it's pretty much guarenteed to spank the current 3-series, CTS, A4, etc, etc (except for the CTS-V). And while I understand looks are subjective, most people I've talked to who are open to imports (not the type to automatically hate them) say it looks damn good and not conservative at all.

 

The 350 will not have the traditional manual (with a clutch and all)

looks good on paper, with great specs and all, and alot better in silver, but just doesn't jump out at me. The exterior and interior don't look bold to me at all.

 

Right... the 350 for now will only have the 6-speed paddle shift manumatic. If I had to bet right now from what I know, the IS350 will never come with a 6-speed manual available... only the IS250. However if and when the IS500 comes out that will certainly have a manual.

More pics: http://www.autoweek.com/files/specia...s/pages/01.htm

 

Nice looking car. I like the new styling direction of the GS and IS.

Here's hoping a GM Kappa sedan comes out like that, with a little less luxury content, mid 200 hp, RWD M6, and in the mid 20s.

 

The power output should certainly raise the stakes for other manufacturers.

That said, I'll consider a Lexus about the same time I'm picking out my plot at Forest Lawn. Or maybe not. A fast appliance is still an appliance.

 

The nose looks exactly like a Scion tC

 

I am open to imports, and I think it looks just about as boring as every other Lexus product.

 

Not realy. Cause they are claiming the IS250, should have all that while being less the $30k.. so The GM Kappa sedan needs to be at least as lux for that price, to really be competative.

 

Another Threxx thread on the virtues of another Japanese appliance-type product. How shocking :blah:

On that note, the new CTS is right around the corner.

 

As a matter of fact, the whole car strongly resembles the Scion tC. It doesn't seem to hurt Lexus' image that many of its models appear, at least on the outside, to be little more than rebadged downmarket products. ES330/Camry anyone?

And by most insider accounts, the new CTS will be quite stunning.

 

Styling wise, it looks very generically Japanese. I'm amazed at how much it looks like the new Acura RL. Specs seem great though. For my money though, I'd still choose the BMW 3 series over this, strictly for the handling and styling factor.

 

That's because the ES330 is to an extent a rebadged Camry - you get some added benefits and upgrades in the ES for the 12-13% price premium you pay over the Camry (option for option). The IS is related to nothing in the Toyota or Scion lineup at all.

 

Jason... all most people here talk about is domestics. Sorry for not comforming to the circle jerk. Would you prefer I just add more repetetive banter regarding GM products, of which I'm sure I couldn't add anything original. Everything there is to know about GM that I know I'm sure has already been said here. But since this is the future vehicle forum and not much is said about other brands of cars, I see my input as being added content.

That's because the ES330 is to an extent a rebadged Camry - you get some added benefits and upgrades in the ES for the 12-13% price premium you pay over the Camry (option for option). The IS is related to nothing in the Toyota or Scion lineup at all.