2014 Lexus IS Debut

What's New

It's been a while since we've been able to say, "new IS," but here it is, the 2014 Lexus IS sport sedan. The old one's still going strong, by the way, and you can tell that with this one, it'll be ahead of its time even a few years from now. The biggest change is that dynamic face, the sculpted beltline. Aside from that, there's a revised and firmed suspension, and the latest safety and interior bits, including a subscription-free, real-time traffic and weather alert system. Price, power, and EPA figures are unknown at this time.

Who It's For

The Lexus IS sport sedan has traditionally been aimed at a young audience, a coming-into money audience, and one that favors sporty-driving flair over bland family- or economy-styled cars. It's for drivers who want a premium sedan without the cost associated with posh luxury.

Key Features

Design, obviously. And this one's a winner. The IS sport sedan has always been very good looking, especially for a gateway-luxury car in the same price bracket as a standard family sedan. Fortunately, it's got more than just a pretty face:

• 2.5-liter V-6, available 3.5-liter V-6
• Available all-wheel drive; 8-speed automatic transmission
• Longer wheelbase leads to increased rear seat space

What We Think

The current Lexus IS hasn't been meaningfully refreshed in more than seven years, and yet it doesn't look dated. What's more, it continues to sell. Most importantly though, the IS sport sedan is Lexus' most accessible car to younger buyers. But with new competition from Cadillac, and a resurgent 3 Series and C-Class, the IS was, and has been, due for a remake. But Lexus has mastered the formula with this wolf in a wolf's clothing, the outlier in a segment of conservatively molded sheep. We're not yet sure how good it is, but we're sure it'll be a smashing success regardless.

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