TO THE POINTWhat’s New? Virtually everything. The 2005 Lexus IS is similar to the GS sedan, with more engine displacement and a more aggressive character. Selling Points: Sexy design, well executed interior, powerful engines with smooth power bands Deal Breakers: No manual transmission offered with the IS 350 – the real performance variant, virtually silent exhaust note, IS 250 misses some power. Our Advice: Test drive today
Powering the 2006 Lexus IS 250 is a 2.5-liter V6 that generates 204 horsepower at 6,400 rpm, and is mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters. Lexus car guys say that the engine has a new direct-to-cylinder fuel injection system that helps to keep the cylinders cool, creating greater compression and better efficiency. It’s all part of a powertrain that, when combined with the new suspension setup underneath, provides seamless power and plenty of torque. In fact, the powertrain – and dual exhaust – is so efficient at doing its job that engine noise is but a whisper inside the cabin. Same is true for the larger engine in the IS 350 – a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 306 horsepower at 6,400 rpm.
