The 2017 Lexus IS just made its North American debut at the Miami Auto Show. It was initially revealed in Beijing earlier in the year.
This car has revived a host of minor enhancements. Starting on the outside, it gets a mildly reworked version of the brand’s signature spindle grille; F Sport models gain a three-dimensional mesh pattern that’s finished in jet-black metallic paint. There are also functional brake-cooling ducts.
In addition to these changes, the hood has been bulked up with a raised center section and there are standard LED headlamps. ‘Round back, the bumper has been restyled, as have the taillights. There are also new, rectangular chromed exhaust outlets.
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As for technology, Lexus Safety System+ is standard, which includes things like a pre-collision system, lane departure alert with steering assist, blind-spot monitoring and more, basically all the latest electronic goodies you’d expect in a luxury car.
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Inside, there are redesigned cupholders, the audio and HVAC control panel has been refined, plus there’s a smattering of new switchgear. Lexus’ optional multimedia screen has grown to 10.3-inches and it’s controlled by their second-generation Remote Touch Interface, which now features a leather-wrapped palm rest and new enter buttons for heightened usability. Beyond all this, there’s also an available Mark Levinson premium sound system with 15 speakers.
Powertrains in this car should remain eerily familiar, since they’re basically unchanged. The lineup includes a base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as well as a 3.5-liter V6 that’s available in two different potencies. The top-dog offers up to 306 horsepower. As before, rear- or all-wheel drive are still offered.
That’s a quick overview of the updated 2017 Lexus IS. Per usual, pricing information is not available at this time but it’s scheduled to go on sale this fall.
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