Lexus IS Saloon (05 on) - Review

There's an almost baffling array of trims in the IS range - not helped by the fact that Lexus lists models with sat nav or sunroofs as separate models (for company car drivers who usually aren't able to choose optional extras). In addition to the standard model there are SE, SE-L and Sport trim levels. The equipment fitted to the standard car includes a six-disc autochanger and 13-speaker stereo, keyless entry, cruise control, electric windows, electric heated mirrors, tinted glass, climate control and 16-inch alloys. The SE model adds eight-way electrically adjustable seats with an inbuilt heating and ventilation system, leather upholstery and 17-inch alloy wheels. The SE-L specification adds rain sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, auto-dimming mirrors, electrically adjusted steering column, powered rear blind, illuminated scuff plates, xenon headlamps and high quality wood trim. Sport model has 18-inch alloys and memory settings for the seats, wheel and mirrors. In 2008 the trim levels were changed to SE, SE-I and SE-L while a new sat nav pack was introduced which includes a rear parking monitor. In December 2009 a sporty F-Sport model was added which gets a sports grille, a rear spoiler, sports grille, unique 18-inch alloys, sports seats and an IS F style steering wheel. At the same time, a new optional sat nav system was introduced which uses a 40GB hard drive.