Lexus redesigned the IS sedan for 2021. The car has been just unveiled, and reaches dealerships in late fall 2020.
Only two versions – the base IS300 and top IS350 with an F Sport trim availability – are on their way to buyers.
What is new for the 2021 iteration?
The new Lexus IS is one inch higher and wider. Appearance improvements include a larger grille, angled aggressive headlamps, a darker front facia, revised exhaust pipes, a new Circuit Red interior color, two 19-inch wheel designs.
Tech Upgrades
The chassis and suspension have undergone upgrades too. The body becomes more rigid to better steering response. The F Sport trim comes with a Dynamic Handling Package.
Inside customers will find an optional 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity now. An 8-inch screen is standard (1” larger than before).
Driver-assistance systems, namely AEB, pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control, got enhanced capabilities; blind-spot monitoring is standard anew.
Powertrain
The F Sport trim offers a 3.5-liter 311-hp V6 engine. The base IS300 comes with a 241-hp 2.0-liter inline turbo four (RWD) or a 3.5-liter 260-hp V6 engine (AWD). For the higher-end IS350 modification, Lexus offers a more powerful V6.
The company hopes this redesign for 2021 will help regain the market share that has fallen since 2014.
