2023 IS arrived with an updated look, resulting in a sharper design. With a recently updated design, we expect 2023 IS to have the same exterior design as the current model on sale. The current IS features a stubby front end with Lexus’ massive spindle grille, angular headlights, and a short front overhang. At the back, the IS has a built-in rear spoiler, sharp taillights that are connected by a slim horizontal bar, and dual exhaust pipes.
On the inside, the current IS shows its age. As a carryover model, 2023 IS should retain the same overall design. The center console is cluttered, featuring a dizzying number of buttons that are located in odd places. The infotainment system is perched on top of the dashboard, while an analog clock and two square vents sit directly below it. Lexus continues to fit the IS with its touchpad system that’s located behind the shift knob. The configurable instrument cluster and push-start button that’s located on the dashboard are sporty touches on the IS. The redesigned 2023 Lexus IS is a five-seat crossover SUV that straddles the premium and luxury classes, similar to the Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, and Volvo XC60.
Inside, the tiered dash and multimedia mishmash of its predecessor cede to a more cohesive dash fronted by an available 14.0-inch touchscreen. Climate dials complement the touch elements. An electronic gear shifter replaces the mechanical one in the console. There’s less clutter and more uniformity. Keyless entry, ambient lighting, a head-up display, and wood trim such as Ash Bamboo are all options. The current IS comes with an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, a 10-speaker audio system, two USB ports, Bluetooth, a CD player, satellite radio, and an HD Radio. Available features include a 10.3-inch touchscreen, an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, and a digital keycard. With 2023 IS expected to be a carryover model, these tech features should remain the same.
Lexus offers the IS with three different engines. The 2023 Lexus IS should be available with the same engines. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque are standard. This engine is only available with rear-wheel drive (RWD). A 3.5-liter V6 engine is a next step up. In the IS 300, it makes 260 hp, while in the IS 350, it’s rated at 311 hp. Lastly, there’s the 5.0-liter V8 engine. It generates 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque and routes its power to the rear wheels. IS models with RWD come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models utilize a six-speed automatic.
The IS impresses with its list of standard safety features. Automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control are standard. Available safety features include a surround-view parking camera and parking sensors. These features should remain the same for the 2023 model year. Lexus equips the 2023 IS with its latest driver-assist systems, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, and other available features.
The dashboard is more modern and striking than before, but some cabin materials, such as the plastic on the center console and the lighter-colored fake woodgrain, left us disappointed. By contrast, the mix of more substantial elements on the dash and the fabric door inserts are up to luxury standards.
Redesigned but not reimagined, the 2023 IS should meet the expectations of returning Lexus customers who value calm comfort over potent performance. Those more accustomed to pricier German luxury SUVs, however, will likely find the IS wanting in terms of driving dynamics and interior quality. Lexus, though, seems wary of majorly altering its original and popular formula. The performance hybrid employs the same 2.4-liter turbo-4 on the IS 350 but it’s supplemented by a motor generator up front and a rear motor powering the rear axle for a total system output of 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. With the rear motor, the full-time AWD system can split the torque from front-wheel drive to a ratio of 40/60 at launch to hit 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. But shifting out of first gear on the 6-speed automatic can take a beat longer than expected, Normal, Sport, and Custom modes change the throttle response so that Eco mode feels as if you’re stepping on a sponge, and the electronic steering feel, which is light by default. A Trail mode on AWD models uses brake-based vectoring to control wheel slip and distribute torque to the rear wheels. Still, the Lexus IS shouldn’t be exploring far off the pavement, with just 8.1 to 8.2 inches of ground clearance and soft, on-road tires. The IS 450h+ shares an 18.1-kWh battery and a plug-in hybrid powertrain with the smaller NX450h+ and the Toyota RAV4 Prime. It has a 2.5-liter inline-4 and two-motor system powering the front wheels, and a dedicated motor at the rear axle for AWD. Brief driving impressions were that EV mode was not as quick off the line as other PHEVs, but there’s a seamless shift between gas and electric power. It’s very quiet. It will be available in the U.S. at a later date.
All hybrid models come standard with AWD, but with different systems. The IS 350 comes with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available. The IS 350 F Sport Handling comes with standard AWD on demand, as well as adaptive dampers on its fully independent suspension with front struts and a multi-link rear.
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