Lexus' entry into the Luxury Sports Sedan Market

Honda S2000 Info Click HERE

After bringing high class limousines (as we refer them in Europe) to the market, Toyota's luxury division is trying to compete in the crowded sports sedan market already dominated by the German brands such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes (in alphabetical order). For that reason, Lexus choosed to get ass close as possible to the most prestigious brands by using their technology: inline 6 engines and rear wheels transmission.

Meanwhile, Mercedes changed from inline motors to V engines, but it is only true for displacements bigger than 2.3 liters, as smaller displacement are still inline fours.

As usual for Lexus, they took the models and improved them everywhere they could. we will not even compare the car to the Audi, which are front - or all- wheel drive, but if we look at the BMW 320i, we see that power is 5hp higher, the car comes with a 6 speed manual transmission standard and equipment is much higher than the standard beemer.

Lexus IS200
Dimensions  
Length 4,400mm
Width 1,720mm
Height 1,410mm
Wheel Base 2,670mm
Weight 1340kg
Mechanical  
Motor Type 2.0 liter inline 6 VVT-i
Max. output 114kW@6200rpm
Torque 195Nm@4400rpm
Gearbox 6 speed manual / 4 speed auto
Transmission Rear wheels
Performance  
0-100kph 9.5s
Max speed 215kph
Price  
  42kCHF
The IS200 is also sold in Japan under the toyota brand, as Toyota needs to upgrade it's image for the young generation. That is also why you will see some pictures with Altezza on it, but don't worry, there is already an aftermarket that will allow you to "upgrade" your Toyota to a Lexus!

 

Take a look at the gallery!

 

IS 200 Press Release (PDF)

If you have more information or any questions, please feel free to send me an email

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