Lexus gives us the refreshed IS

Most of what is shown at the Beijing Auto Show comes to America. But some make it here to us, and this year one of those is the refreshed mid-lifecycle Lexus IS.

With minor tweaks here and there, the Lexus IS, gives a fresh look with keeping the same features that consumers love. The company reshaped it’s trademark love-it-or-leave-it grille, slightly revised the taillights and strengthened the appearance of the checkmark-shaped front turn signals. It's also revised the headlight shape, but Lexus is quick to note that the coolest looking headlights are "not US spec."

Inside, the changes are even tougher to find. The most obvious adjustment is a bump in infotainment screen size, from 7 inches to 10.3. There's also a redesigned gauge cluster, new Enter buttons for the infotainment controller, as well as new cup holders and a larger palm rest. Otherwise, the interior is as it was before.

Lexus also upgraded the IS's Lexus Safety System+ suite of driver aids. It includes forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams.

In terms of powertrains, the song remains the same. The base engine is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine putting out 241 horsepower. You can also opt for one of two six-cylinder engines, with outputs of 255 or 306 hp.

Keep a lookout for this refreshed Lexus IS. Until then enjoy our other fine Lexus vehicles here and contact us to schedule you test drive now!