New 2015MY Lexus IS with Upgraded Specs Revealed
Even though the Lexus IS just entered a new generation at the beginning of 2014, the premium Japanese automaker is already planning a minor refresh for the 2015 model year. Even though the exterior changes are few, as you continue reading you’ll learn that the luxury sedan’s interior has received some truly praiseworthy additions.
2015 Lexus IS Exterior & Mechanical Updates
Let’s get the powertrain changes out of the way first – there aren’t any. It’ll come with the same two engine options as this year, which include a 2.5L V6 with 204hp and a 3.5L V6 with 306hp. Everything else about power delivery from the engine to the wheels remains the same… Each trim can be had with either rear-wheel or all-weather drive, and either way you’ll get the same “finely tuned” electronic power steering from the Lexus GS.
As for the exterior, even though Lexus hasn’t released any images of the 2015MY, they assure us that the only change is the addition of new LED fog lights, presumably somewhere around the front air intakes. Not only will they look great, but they’ll also improve the car’s visibility for both the driver and oncoming traffic.
2015 Lexus IS Interior & Technology Updates
This is where the 2015 Lexus IS will get the majority of its updates. Lexus describes how “the brand’s hallmark luxury and sumptuous appointments remain intact, bolstered by cutting-edge multi-media.”
The cutting-edge technology they’re referring to here is the inclusion of Siri Eyes Free voice command, an improved backup camera with dynamic grid lines and the new Lexus Enform Remote. The Lexus Enform App will allow you to remotely control several of the IS’s different technologies from your iPhone, from the locks to the ignition to the AC and more.
As for the new luxury appointments, Lexus is probably referring to the refined interior trim. Drivers will enjoy new piano black accents and Stratus Gray upholstery for an all-around darker, classier interior design.
Finally, since the AWD Lexus IS has seen significant popularity in colder areas, all AWD IS models will now have the option of a heated steering wheel, and the AWD F Sport package will get heated and ventilated front seats. The F Sport trim also gets new unique 18-inch wheels, special suspension tuning, and several aesthetic tweaks to the interior and exterior trim. Oh, and it gets a new sound generator on the air intake to create a more “sporting” (aka. loud) engine note.
As you can see, Lexus has a plethora of upgrades lineup for their IS sedan even though it’s only been available in its current form for one year. And pricing will remain almost the same… Only $450 has been added to each price tag across the board.
