Lexus Renames Turbo IS and GS Because Bigger is Better

The Lexus IS 200t and GS 200t no longer exist.

In revealing the 2018 Lexus IS and GS lineups, the Japanese automaker quietly renamed the IS 200t and GS 200t to the IS 300 RWD and GS 300. The new “300” badge no longer represents what’s under the hood, as the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine still remains. In other words, Lexus didn’t replace the 2.0-liter mill with a 3.0-liter engine. It’s a move that is similar to what other automakers are doing – instead of showing actual displacement, they’re using a virtual engine designation.

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Along with the name change, the IS 300 AWD and IS 350 are getting a five-horsepower boost, with the 300 AWD now having 260 hp and the 350 getting 311 hp. Other minor changes to the IS lineup include an available adaptive front lighting system, while the IS 350 RWD F Sport has an optional limited-slip differential.

The GS sedan doesn’t see very many changes, with Lexus Enform now complimentary for the first 10 years of ownership. There are also new optional 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. The GS 300 features 241 hp from its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.