The Lexus IS range has always been a quiet achiever in this segment and the new IS200t is no exception – especially with the appeal of the F Sport. Thanks to its new 2.0L turbocharged engine, the performance now matches the bold design. So what does the Lexus IS200t F Sport offer buyers? Let’s find out!
The F Sport styling injects dynamic style, angular lines and performance enhancement – all inspired by the LFA Supercar – bringing your dreams of owning a race-car back in budget and back to reality. The F Sport boasts 18” alloy wheels, dual chrome exhaust pipes, aerodynamic design reducing cabin noise and increasing performance and aggressive front bumper and grille.
Moving inside, you’re greeted with the luxurious touches and functional layout that has become synonymous with Lexus. Think leather accents combined with alloy door trims for an edgier look. Think a practical information display with customisable gauge layout for sports performance. The IS200t F Sport is fitted with all the essentials including dual zone climate control with rear vents, a 7” multimedia display with satellite navigation, 8 speaker audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, CD/DVD and digital radio.
The front bucket seats – perhaps the most comfortable in the segment – are both heated and ventilated and feature electric height, slide, recline and cushion tilt adjustment while the driver gets the added bonus of lumbar support. Further extending the sport touches of the bucket seats are sports pedals. The ability to achieve a comfortable driving position for people of all shapes and sizes is a stand out for the IS200t, aided by tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustments. Added technology ensures safe driving is easy and convenience is enhanced with automatic dipping side mirrors for reversing, keyless entry with push button start and front/rear parking sensors and camera.
With a 5 star ANCAP rating, the IS200t does a good job of cramming in every piece of reliable and useable safety feature available. With 10 airbags, Pre-Collision Safety System, Radar Active Cruise Control, blind spot monitoring, Hill Start Assist, Lane Departure Warning^ and automatic high beam^ and the long list of usual safety suspects.
The hero of the new IS200t is the 2.0L turbo-petrol engine producing 180kW of power at 5,800rpm and a whopping 350Nm of torque (a 98Nm increase) at 1,650-4,400rpm. This translates to a sharp, even distribution of power starting at low speeds providing continually sounds performance throughout the rev-range. Paired with the new 8 speed automatic transmission, the everyday driving possibilities of the Lexus IS200t F Sport are effortlessly accomplished. Really, it does what Lexus does best – making all the figures, facts and technology disappear into the background with a naturally comfortable and enjoyable drive. For those who are pushing beyond the everyday boundaries of this car, switching into Sport mode will tweak the suspension and steering and provide that extra level assurance when heading into tight corners or exploring that extra sporty side.
For $72,521*, the Lexus IS200t F Sport is the gateway to the luxury mid-size vehicle segment, combining the luxurious and sporty touches buyers want, with a price tag that won’t scare them away. Thanks to the new engine/transmission combination, the performance is now what you would expect from such an aggressively sports designed vehicle.
*prices are drive-away for postcode 2000
^available with Enhancement Pack