Offering three distinctly different models, the longer, wider and roomier IS sedan arrives with a revamped family of high-output V6 engines, using manual and automatic six-speed transmissions to drive the rear wheels or all four wheels available on the IS 250. Combining a strong new body structure, new suspension systems, powerful new brakes and, on the IS 350, a sport-oriented Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, the 2006 IS sedans are poised to disrupt the class performance hierarchy.
As the second Lexus model to benefit from the revitalized design language, the all-new IS models take a notably sporty and more luxurious turn in order to bring demanding customers the best of both worlds.
Expanded Lineup Broadens Appeal
Three models form the basis of the new IS family. The IS 250 features a responsive
2.5-liter V6 engine with either a six-speed manual transmission or a new six-speed sequential automatic transmission with Formula One inspired steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters routing power to the rear wheels. The IS 250 AWD is available with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic and delivers the power needed for driving confidence in a variety of road conditions. The top-line IS 350 is powered by a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine that is backed by the advanced six-speed sequential automatic transmission with paddle shifters for quick, precise gear changing.
In addition to the all-new powertrains, the IS series also brings a fresh array of standard and available features designed to enhance every aspect of owning and driving an IS.
Notable standard equipment includes the convenient SmartAccess keyless entry and engine start system, six-disc, in-dash CD changer, driver and front passenger knee airbags and 13 speaker premium audio system.
The all-new IS also offers premium options more often associated with higher-priced models, such as Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), heated and ventilated front seats, Pre Collision System (PCS), a power-tilt telescope steering wheel and a new 14-speaker Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio System.
Powerful Technology for New V6 Engine Family
Two all-new V6 engines are found in the 2006 IS sport sedans. The 2.5-liter version found in the IS 250 uses dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and an added direct-to-cylinder fuel injection system to help deliver 204 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque. The new 3.5-liter version delivers a best-in-class 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in an estimated zero-to-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds.
The highly tuned 3.5-liter engine utilizes both port and direct fuel injection, which optimizes the fuel mixture, particularly in both light and medium load conditions, and creates a precise burn, higher output and lower emissions to aid drivability. This advanced direct fuel injection system provides a cooling effect in the cylinders, allowing for higher compression ratios. The results are substantial improvements in engine efficiency with increased power and improved fuel economy.
Both engines benefit as well from reduced internal friction via chain-driven camshafts and roller-rocker arms that also increase efficiency. Both engines use aluminum heads and cylinder blocks that feature special cast-in “spiny” cylinder liners to improve liner stability and cooling by increasing surface contact area with the cylinder block.
A dual exhaust system reduces exhaust backpressure at high rpm while a variable valve system in the mufflers helps reduce noise at lower rpm. Extensive use of stainless steel in the exhaust system minimizes weight and improves durability.
The integration of these technologies contributes to segment-leading efficiency with the IS 350 obtaining an EPA-estimated combined fuel consumption of 24 mpg (21 mpg city/28 mpg highway); the IS 250 coming in with an estimated combined 27 mpg (24 mpg city/32 mpg highway) for the automatic model and an estimated combined 23 mpg (20 mpg/29 mpg highway) for the manual transmission; and the IS 250 AWD attaining an estimated combined 25 mpg (22 mpg city/ 28 mpg highway). All 2006 IS models carry the EPA’s Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification.
Transmission Speeds in Multiples of Six
Exclusively in the IS 250, a new six-speed manual transmission is designed to take full advantage of its free-revving 2.5-liter V6 engine. Gear ratios are carefully matched to the engine horsepower and torque characteristics.
A new sequential-shift six-speed automatic is also offered in this model and is standard in both the IS 250 AWD and IS 350. This intelligent transmission is designed to provide smooth yet fast shifts for comfort and crisp response. With the automatic transmission, the driver has the option to use the steering-wheel–mounted paddle shifters inspired by Formula One race cars for maximum involvement and precise control for a more engaging driving experience.
Sophisticated Dynamics Match Aggressive Power
The IS received an all-new front and rear suspension, steering and brake systems. The IS 250 comes with standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). The IS 350 receives Lexus’ innovative VDIM system to provide superior handling dynamics and traction control, designed for a higher threshold for more spirited driving. The suspension designs optimize dynamic wheel alignment to help provide precise, confident handling and maximum tire grip. A performance suspension package with 18-inch wheels is available for even better handling response.
At the front, a redesigned double-wishbone system with a high-mount upper control arm serves up several benefits. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components keep unsprung weight low, which helps the vehicle to remain stable on bumpy surfaces, improving ride comfort. The lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness.
A new multilink rear suspension employs the same design approach that uses a combination of high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum components and places high value on precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the IS sport sedans ultra stable for confident driving.
New monotube shock absorbers with rebound springs are used front and rear. The shocks employ much larger pistons than conventional twin-tube shocks and their increased size offers superior damping-force response and control, especially at low piston speeds. Multileaf linear control valves also help improve damping force, and rebound springs offer improved body control without the typical ride comfort tradeoffs.
A completely new Electric Power Steering (EPS) rack and pinion steering gear is now mounted ahead of the front axle centerline, providing more linear steering response, precise control and better straight-line stability. In addition, the vehicle-speed-sensitive system offers better control of steering assist, eliminates parasitic loss from a pump and reduces weight and complexity. The new system is easily adjusted to the driver’s desired position via manual or an available new power-tilt telescope steering wheel.
All 2006 models feature large and powerful brakes. The IS 350 adds spiral fins to the vented 13.15-inch front rotors and aluminum four-piston calipers for excellent heat dissipation, low unsprung weight and tremendous stopping power. The brakes are controlled by a variable ratio-link–type pedal and tie-rod–type booster, both of which improve brake-pedal rigidity and system response.
Standard high-performance, low-profile 225/45R17 front tires and 245/45R17 (225/45R17 on AWD) rear tires firmly unite the IS with the road. Available as a standalone option or as part of the performance package, ultra high performance 225/40R18 front tires and 255/40R18 rear tires provide the serious enthusiast driver with the utmost cornering grip.
The available performance package offers auto aficionados a way to further enjoy their passion for driving by notably sharpening an already excellent dynamic package. The package includes 18-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension with firmer shocks and about a half-inch lower ride height.
Power + Control = Driving Pleasure
All of the sophisticated electronic systems of the IS 350 are managed by the integrated VDIM system. Most recently introduced in the 2006 Lexus GS 430 and RX 400h, VDIM is designed to complement the inherently high-performance dynamics of the IS 350.
VDIM enhances handling, traction and brake control systems designed to respond to unstable conditions by actually anticipating tire slippage before a skid, slide or wheel spin occurs and making stabilizing corrections to maximize dynamic capability. Coupled with a tight integration of all onboard stability control systems, VDIM is rendered virtually transparent to the driver, minimizing distractions during driving.
VDIM uses an active-control strategy that takes its cues from a comprehensive range of sensors, including steering angle, yaw rate, deceleration, brake pressure, brake pedal stroke, wheel speed and others. Their signals are used individually by the various Traction Control (TRAC) systems and collectively by VDIM. These systems include electronic throttle, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electric Power Steering (EPS) and VSC.
For the IS, VDIM is programmed to allow drivers to adventurously push the limits of handling before discreetly and effectively applying braking, throttle and steering assistance. This approach is designed to maximize driving pleasure while these systems help to provide control in marginal driving conditions to assist drivers on even the most difficult roads.
Fresh, Dynamic, Functional Design—with Luxury in Abundance
With its styling clearly influenced by Lexus’ recent LF-series concept cars, the 2006 IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the 2006 GS, while establishing their own distinctively upscale, sporty presence. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn body work, lend a muscular and sophisticated style. Both interior space and dynamic performance benefit from a 3.5-inch increase in overall length, an additional 3.0 inches in width, 2.4 inches in wheelbase and 1.9 inches in rear tread.
The roomy, luxurious and sporty cabin is complemented by intelligently designed displays and controls to make driving both simple and pleasurable. Bright, clear Optitron® gauges and smartly integrated metallic or available Bird’s-eye Maple trim help create an elegant and streamlined environment. New interior materials and attention to detail leave no doubt that the all-new IS represents the heart of Lexus—quality.
The 2006 IS series’ aerodynamic package adds greatly to the vehicles’ performance, fuel economy and stability. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and innovative “air kick” tail lamps contribute to a low exterior coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.28.
The low Cd is enhanced by close attention to underbody airflow management, which not only reduces drag but also minimizes and balances front/rear lift. Carefully designed underbody elements help smooth the surfaces or redirect air around obtrusions in order to promote airflow and reduce turbulence under the car. The resulting low-drag body makes best use of engine power, and the low lift enhances high-speed stability and handling balance.
Luxury, Comfort and Convenience Not to Be Missed
While the sound of 306 horsepower will resonate with driving enthusiasts, everyone will appreciate Lexus’ ability to keep undesirable noises to a minimum. A highly rigid yet lightweight body is the starting point for strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including sound-absorbing sun visors. Acoustic windshield glass also contributes to the quietness of the cabin.
The attention paid to aerodynamic drag is also evident here in the innovative A-pillar and outside rearview mirror design which lower wind noise from this notoriously difficult area. Special seals around the doors and windows also contribute to a further reduction in wind noise.
The luxurious and sporty demeanor of the newest IS sedans is enhanced by a comprehensive list of safety, comfort and luxury features seldom found in this class. For example, the available touch-screen navigation system with back-up camera and other features, such as new dual High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, AFS, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, SmartAccess keyless entry with push-button start and heated/ventilated front seats, are normally found only in more expensive luxury cars.
Additionally, dual-zone automatic climate control lets back seat passengers enjoy their own A/C vents.
The Security of a Lexus
Like all Lexus vehicles, the 2006 IS series packs a wide range of dynamic and active safety systems like TRAC, ABS, Brake Assist, VSC and Daytime Running Lights (DRL). A new Tire Pressure Monitor system helps maintain tire pressures that are both safe and optimal for ride and handling.
The updated IS body construction plays a central role here as well, with a rigid passenger compartment and carefully designed substructures to absorb or dissipate collision energy. In addition to an advanced driver-side front airbag, the all-new IS adds a twin-chamber front passenger airbag. The IS also comes with driver and front passenger knee airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags and front seat side-mounted airbags to enhance passive safety.
First introduced on the LS 430, Pre-Collision System (PCS) is now also available on the new IS. PCS uses a variety of systems that help determine in advance whether a collision is unavoidable. The system utilizes information from a millimeter-wave radar sensor to help detect obstacles in front of the car, along with a high-speed computer to detect vehicle speed plus variable inputs from steering angle and yaw rate. Depending on the information received, the system may then preemptively retract front seat belts and preinitialize Brake Assist so that increased brake power is applied the instant the brake pedal is depressed.
Powerful, Sophisticated Sound
The Lexus Premium Audio System is standard in the IS. It offers 194 watts of music power and 13 speakers, outperforming systems considered premium in other vehicles. The system even includes a convenient mini-jack in the center console to play music from iPod®s and MP3 players. The new IS now offers an optional Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio System to please the most discerning audiophiles. This system offers 300 watts of power, 14 speakers (including a center speaker and subwoofer) and 7.1-channel speaker architecture.
Pricing on 2006 IS 250 and IS 350 Sport Sedans
Lexus announced pricing today for the 2006 IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans. With contemporary, innovative styling, best-in-class luxury features and segment-leading performance, the all-new IS will also represent the best value in the near luxury automotive segment.
The new IS incorporates a number of standard features available only as options on many competitive vehicles, including leather-trimmed interior, power moonroof and SmartAccess with push-button start. In addition, driver and front passenger 10-way power seats are also standard on all IS models.
“The mission of the new IS was to be best in its class in terms of styling, performance and outstanding value,” said Bob Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “We improved upon a great car with significant enhancements in performance, fuel mileage, lower emissions and a level of luxury only found in a Lexus.”
Manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) is $29,990 for the IS 250 rear-wheel drive with the six-speed manual transmission. The 2006 IS 250 includes $5,000 of additional standard equipment with only a $255 increase over the previous model.
The IS 250 rear-wheel drive with six-speed sequential automatic transmission MSRP is $31,160 and includes Formula One-inspired steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The IS 250 all-wheel drive MSRP is $34,285 and, in addition to the above features, includes a perforated leather-trimmed interior upgrade with heated and ventilated front seats and wood trim.
The IS 350, the fastest sport sedan in the near luxury car segment, MSRP is $35,440. Its highly tuned 3.5-liter engine delivers a best-in-class 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque, resulting in the quickest zero-to-60 mph time of any competitor sport sedan.
The new IS exterior showcases additional standard features including projector beam headlamps, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, dual exhaust, LED tail lamps and brake lamps, and nighttime side-mirror puddle lamps that activate as you approach the car. Ten exterior colors are available and are matched with a choice of three interior colors.
The IS has an impressive lineup of standard interior features such as a 13-speaker premium audio system with an in-dash, six-disc CD changer and an auxiliary input for iPods or MP3 players, separate driver and passenger climate controls, HomeLink®, direct tire-pressure monitor, outboard rear-seat pretensioner seatbelts, steering wheel audio controls and Optitron gauges with personalized shift and speed settings.
Several innovations highlight the IS sport sedans’ technical features. A new twin-chamber front-passenger airbag is designed to help manage impact energy by dispersing the impact of the accident between the head and shoulders. It is a part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) featuring eight standard airbags, including driver and front passenger knee airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags and front passenger airbags.
The IS sport sedans’ exceptional performance characteristics begin with two new direct-injection V6 power plants with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and dual exhaust. Mated to either a manual or automatic six-speed transmission, the 2.5-liter V6 shows considerable improvement in fuel economy versus the last generation IS 300. The robust 3.5-liter V6, mated to the sequential six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission, carves out class-leading performance with a zero-to-60 time of 5.3 seconds.
The integration of these new technologies contributes to segment-leading efficiency with the IS 350 obtaining an EPA-estimated combined fuel consumption rating of 24 mpg (21 mpg city/28 mpg highway); the IS 250 coming in with an estimated combined 27 mpg (24 mpg city/32 mpg highway) for the automatic model and an estimated combined 23 mpg (20 mpg/29 mpg highway) for the manual transmission; and the IS 250 AWD attaining an estimated combined 25 mpg (22 mpg city/28 mpg highway). All 2006 IS models carry the EPA’s Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification.
All IS models come standard with electronic vehicle stability control, a feature which helps prevent loss of traction in a turn. While the IS 250 features Lexus’ sophisticated Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), the IS 350 comes standard with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), one of the most advanced active safety systems in the world. Operating in a rapid, smooth fashion, VDIM is less overt than other stability-control systems, allowing the driver to approach the sport sedan’s handling limits before it transparently applies subtle adjustments to the throttle, brake and steering system to help the driver maintain vehicle control.
The latest, most advanced Lexus Navigation System will be offered as an option in the new IS with a higher-resolution Video Graphics Array (VGA) screen. Sharper graphics with 3-D shadow effects compliment enhanced color definition and a 32,000-color palate. The new fifth-generation navigation system adds voice-recognition destination input, freeway exit-lane guidance and a route-trace capability. Spanish has been added to the voice-prompt feature along with English and French when the user selects their language preference at system start-up.
| Preliminary Specifications and Features | |||
| IS 250 | IS 250 AWD | IS 350 | |
| Specifications | |||
| Wheelbase (inches) | 107.5 | < | < |
| Length (inches) | 180.1 | < | < |
| Width (inches) | 70.9 | < | < |
| Height (inches) | 56.1 | 56.7 | 56.1 |
| Curb Weight (approx. lbs.) | 3,450 | 3,650 | 3,525 |
| Engine Displacement | 2.5 liters | < | 3.5 liters |
| Horsepower | 200+ | < | 300+ |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 180+ | < | 275+ |
| Transmission | 6 M/T (6 A/T option) | 6 A/T | < |
| Std. Tire Size – Front/Rear | 225/45R17 / 245/45R17 | 225/45R17 / 225/45R17 | 225/45R17 / 245/45R17 |
| Optional Tire Size – Front/Rear | 225/40R18 / 255/40R18 | — | 225/40R18 / 255/40R18 |
| 0-60 mph (mfr. est.) | Upper 7-second range | Lower 8-second range | Upper 5-second range |
| Fuel Economy* | High 20’s | < | < |
| Emissions Rating** | ULEV-II | < | < |
| Key Features | |||
| VDIM | NA (VSC std.) | NA (VSC std.) | S |
| Sport Package | O | NA | O |
| Smart Access | S | S | S |
| Heated & Ventilated Seats | O | O | O |
| Voice-Activated Navigation | O | O | O |
| Rear Back-Up Camera | O | O | O |
| Bi-Xenon HID/AFS | O | O | O |
| Driver/Pass. Knee Airbags | S | S | S |
| Pre-Collision System | O (with A/T only) | O | O |
| Dynamic Radar Cruise Control | O (with A/T only) | O | O |
| MP3 / WMA Audio Input | S | S | S |
| Mark Levinson Audio | O | O | O |
| Warranty As with all Lexus vehicles, the IS 350 and IS 250 come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage. |
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