8 February 2011
Road test review
For 2009, the IS250 has been redefined with subtle exterior enhancements and additional safety features. Re-styled bumpers create a sleek and sporty look and the grille has had some subtle tweaks. The side mirrors now incorporate indicator repeaters and the tail lights enhance what Lexus term "L'Finesse" design. Finesse is a quality which describes the IS250 perfectly, so no arguments from us here. Styling enhancements also include new 18" wheel options.
So, while there are no huge visual changes there are just enough enhancements to differentiate it from the previous model.
Where Lexus have really lifted the game is in the upgrades under the skin.
Revisions to the suspension and steering have resulted in a perfect balance between good ride quality, excellent road holding and a firm, positive feedback through the steering.
Electronic steering in many modern vehicles is just plain awful and disengages the driver with the road. However this can't be said for the IS250. It seems finally someone has found the recipe for a very good electronic steering system that provides the driver with real connection with the road.
With the exception of the go-fast 5.0 litre IS F, the Limited is the top of the IS line. All but the IS F are powered by Lexus's silky smooth 2.5 litre all-alloy direct injection quad cam V6 engine. This power plant is quiet smooth and well balanced. Although power is adequate the IS250 could do with a little more, and while Lexus buyers are not necessarily looking for high performance, a few more kilowatts would be welcome.
The 6 speed automatic transmission is a gem which shifts almost seamlessly and without any fuss. Giant paddles are mounted on the steering wheel in case you feel the need to shift manually. Steering wheel mounted audio controls are in easy reach and simple to use.
The cruise control is not quite as user friendly being stalk mounted behind the steering wheel and rotating with the wheel. The speed can only be adjusted up and down in 5km/h increments, which means it is not possible to set the speed to 98km/h for example, which can be frustrating if that's the maximum speed you want to travel at.
Cabin ambience exudes high quality and fit and finish is second to none.
The dash area and interior in general is conservatively styled; some might say a touch too conservative. However, everything is in the right place and ergonomics have been given plenty of consideration.
Exterior styling is sharp and modern looking, footing it well with German competitors. Panel fit is second to none and styling cues such as tail lights protruding from the rear corners add an interesting design feature.
At $85,990 plus On Road Costs, the IS250 Limited is priced well against German rivals. Our test car was fitted with the Premium Package which takes the price out to $93,340. While not everyone will want to fork out the extra $7350, it adds some worthwhile features such as Reverse Monitor, Sat Nav, Blue Tooth Phone Capacity and the upgraded Mark Levison Audio system.
Standard equipment includes Smart Key Access (keyless entry and start), adaptive HID headlights, heated and cooled front seats and Radar Cruise Control with Pre-crash System.
The Radar Cruise Control is a feature we found particularly useful on the open road and on busy motorways. Once set, the system automatically adjusts your speed to a safe following distance when you encounter slow traffic and then resumes to the pre-set limit once the traffic has moved on.
Good quality materials, a high degree of refinement, an overall stylish package with a high level of comfort and driver satisfaction make up the sum of the IS250 Limited.
Summary
It's hard to imagine a vehicle built to a higher quality level and to more exacting standards. It does everything perfectly well. It is quiet, smooth, has adequate power and is equipped with a very high specification level. Road holding is excellent for a car in this category and the transmission and steering are copybook material. Cabin ambience is pure luxury and attention to detail in every department is precise. But does it evoke the passion or have the soul and spirit of its European rivals?
Safety
A very high standard of safety equipment is included. Apart from all the usual features such as ABS, ESP, EBD with Brake Assist, Active Cruise Control (ACC), front, side, curtain and knee airbags for both driver and front seat passenger, the IS250 is equipped with a very intelligent Pre-Crash System (PCS).
If the system detects a pending accident, it retracts the seatbelts, the Brake Assist kicks in to give the braking force and the safety systems are placed on high alert.
Pricing
IS250 2.5 Elect Manual $70,990
IS250 2.5 Elect Auto $74,990
IS250 2.5 Sport Auto $79,990
IS250 2.5 Limited Auto $85,990
Our car as tested with the Premium Package $93,340
Technical
2.5 litre quad cam 24 valve V6 engine producing 153kW of power @ 6400rpm and 252Nm of torque @ 4800rpm. 6 Speed Automatic transmission.
Driving tips
Just let the Active Cruise Control take over, and sit back and enjoy the ride.