Lexus adds hybrid variant to IS range in SA
For the first time in SA, Lexus has added a hybrid variant to its dynamic IS range. In addition, both the hybrid newcomer and the flagship F Sport model become the recipients of Lexus’s innovative Lexus Safety System+.
The refreshed model line-up now comprises the IS 300 EX, equipped with the two-litre turbo motor; the IS 350 F SPORT boasting the revered 3.5-litre quad cam V6 and, of course; the all-new derivative which is badged as the IS 300h SE.
WHY ADD A HYBRID MODEL NOW?
Lexus is committed to producing cars that reduce emissions and will always afford customers the opportunity to play their part in caring for the environment.
Lexus offers more hybrid vehicles than any other carmaker, essentially giving customers the best of both worlds – cutting-edge petrol propulsion supplemented by electric power.
The result is a reduction in CO2 emissions coupled with lower real-world fuel consumption, without exacting a single penalty in the performance stakes. Best of all, Lexus hybrids never require a visit to the charging station, banishing all anxiety-range issues.
THE ALL-NEW IS 300h
The IS 300h reinforces Lexus’ commitment to the future of self-charging hybrid technology. It is powered by Lexus Hybrid Drive, which achieves significant reductions in fuel consumption CO2, NOx and particulate emissions, with no loss of performance.
IS 300h’s longitudinally-mounted, four-cylinder 2AR-FSE 2.5-litre engine has 133 kW of power at 6000rpm and 221 Nm of torque from 4200 to 5400rpm. Unique features of this Atkinson cycle petrol engine include D-4S fuel injection, Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing and high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation.
But, of course, the star attraction of the IS 300h is that the aforementioned petrol powerplant operates in concert with a 650-volt permanent-magnet, synchronous electric motor, producing 105kW maximum power.
The IS 300h’s powerplant is mated to a seamless electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission which can be switched to a sequential shiftmatic mode, operated using paddle shifts on the steering wheel, giving a manual shift feel for a more engaging driving experience.
The IS 300h produces just 104 grams of CO2 per kilometre and consumes an average of just 4.9 litres of fuel per 100km, with a combined power output of 164kW from its petrol-electric drivetrain. This equates to a zero-to-100 km/h acceleration in 8.5 seconds and a governed top speed of 200 km/h.
As with all Lexus self-charging hybrids, the IS 300h is a full hybrid that can be driven in petrol-electric or pure electric modes at slower traffic speeds.
We’ll be keeping our readers posted on more info and reviews in the new year, so be sure to keep checking out WOW’s website for more…