The Lexus IS sedan has long held a significant position within the Lexus lineup, bolstered by over a million sales globally. The 2017 model year marked a substantial mid-cycle refresh for this third-generation vehicle, going beyond mere cosmetic tweaks to emphasize dynamic performance, sophisticated styling, and an interior that embodies Lexus’s renowned craftsmanship, comfort, and user-centric design. This article explores the enhancements that make the 2017 Lexus Is a compelling choice in the luxury sport sedan segment.
Lexus Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi emphasized the customer-focused approach driving the 2017 Lexus IS updates: “Before starting work on the new IS, my designers travelled the world, interviewing customers and searching for inspiration. This research phase was vital, as we were challenged with taking the already successful IS to the next level.” This dedication to understanding customer needs is evident in every aspect of the refreshed model.
The result of this intensive development process is a 2017 Lexus IS that boasts a more assertive stance and refined details. Kobayashi further elaborated, “While keeping its athletic stance and long coupe roofline, we’ve given the IS a more confident look. New design elements include a stronger spindle grille, enhanced side kick-up line and jewel-like LED lighting that all combine to create the most distinctive IS we have ever built.”
The engineering team’s commitment extended beyond aesthetics. They invested significant effort in dynamic improvements, subjecting the car to rigorous real-world and track testing. This dedication led to new lightweight suspension components and revised settings for the coil springs, shock absorbers, and stabilizer bar. The goal was clear: to deliver a more engaging driving experience for the 2017 Lexus IS without compromising the brand’s hallmark ride comfort.
Furthermore, the 2017 Lexus IS introduced Lexus Safety System+, bringing a suite of advanced safety technologies to the model. Features like Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert enhance driver awareness, while the LED headlights provide superior illumination for safer night driving.
Inside the cabin, meticulous attention to detail is apparent. Subtle yet impactful changes to the controls’ shape, placement, and appearance reflect a focus on both tactile quality and improved Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Notable upgrades include a larger 10.3-inch high-resolution screen for the Lexus Premium Navigation system and the introduction of laser-etched dark wood trim, previously seen in the RX luxury SUV.
New alloy wheel designs, updated exterior and interior color options, and an enhanced 10-speaker Pioneer Premium Sound system further amplify the appeal of the 2017 Lexus IS. The model retained its proven powertrains: the efficient IS 300h full hybrid and the responsive IS 200t with a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine and eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission.
Exterior and Interior Design Refinements of the 2017 Lexus IS
- Evolutionary Design with a More Assertive Front Fascia
- Reinterpretation of the Iconic Lexus Spindle Grille
- Fresh Alloy Wheel Designs
- Elevated Cabin Quality with Takumi Craftsmanship Details
- Expanded Lexus Premium Navigation Display
- Upgraded 10-Speaker Pioneer Premium Sound System
Exterior Design: A Sharper, More Dynamic Presence
Recognizing the existing generation’s styling popularity, Lexus maintained the core essence of the IS’s exterior. However, the front end of the 2017 Lexus IS underwent a significant transformation, featuring new headlamps, larger air intakes in the bumper, and a further evolution of the signature Lexus spindle grille.
Alt Text: Front view of the 2017 Lexus IS showcasing the redesigned spindle grille and LED headlights.
The redesigned headlamps, now full LED units, exhibit a more pronounced and inward-extending shape. This design element emphasizes the distinctive “L” configuration of the daytime running lights, contributing to the 2017 Lexus IS‘s striking visual signature. The bumper, with its seamlessly integrated air intakes, flows smoothly from the front fenders, creating a more powerful and grounded stance.
The updated spindle grille on the 2017 Lexus IS is angled back at a higher point, subtly altering the proportions of its upper and lower sections. This adjustment results in a sportier aesthetic and visually lowers the car’s center of gravity, while seamlessly merging into the reshaped hood.
Alt Text: Side profile of the 2017 Lexus IS highlighting the sleek character line and alloy wheel design.
The profile of the 2017 Lexus IS is further refined by a more pronounced character line that runs along the vehicle’s length. Buyers could choose from new 16, 17, and 18-inch wheel designs, including a 17-inch wheel with five sets of twin spokes and a bright machined finish, and a multi-spoke 18-inch rim.
The rear of the 2017 Lexus IS is distinguished by new triple-layered LED light guides and rectangular, chrome-finished exhaust tips, further accentuating its sporty character.
Two new exterior colors, Deep Blue Mica and Graphite Black, expanded the palette of paint finishes available for the 2017 Lexus IS.
Enhanced Interior Design and Human-Machine Interface
Numerous carefully considered enhancements were implemented in the 2017 Lexus IS cabin to elevate visual and tactile quality and improve the HMI of displays and controls.
Multimedia, Remote Touch Interface, and Connectivity
A significant upgrade was the centrally mounted screen for the Lexus Premium Navigation multimedia system, increasing in size from 7 to 10.3 inches. This new, high-resolution monitor in the 2017 Lexus IS presents larger, clearer images and offers a split-screen display. This allows for simultaneous presentation of different information, improving readability and ease of function selection for the driver with minimal distraction.
All 2017 Lexus IS models come equipped with a multimedia system featuring USB, Aux-in, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Lexus Premium Navigation package includes the latest version of the Remote Touch Interface and optional in-car Wi-Fi. Voice commands provide an alternative control method. The Remote Touch Interface on the center console also received an HMI improvement with the addition of an “Enter” button on its side for easier operation.
The standard Lexus Media Display in the 2017 Lexus IS features a seven-inch screen controlled by a rotary dial in the center console.
Refined Cabin Features with Takumi Craftsmanship
The audio and ventilation control panel in the center of the dashboard of the 2017 Lexus IS was redesigned to fit neatly between the knee bolsters and features a new fine hairline finish.
Embodying the Takumi craftsmanship synonymous with Lexus, new stitching was added around the instrument binnacle hood, enhancing the cockpit’s sporty feel. Refinements were also made to the speedometer and tachometer. Additional interior improvements in the 2017 Lexus IS include new cup holders, a larger leather-wrapped and stitched palm rest for the Remote Touch Interface, and updated dial markings on the analog clock positioned centrally on the dashboard.
New Laser-Etched Dark Wood Trim Inserts
For the first time, the 2017 Lexus IS offered laser-etched dark wood trim inserts. Crafted by Yamaha Fine Technologies, these trims utilize a technique employed in crafting high-quality musical instruments.
Alt Text: Close-up of the laser-etched dark wood trim in the 2017 Lexus IS interior, showcasing the wood and aluminum contrast.
The laser-etching process precisely cuts through the wood veneer to reveal an underlying layer of aluminum. This creates a striking visual contrast between the rich wood and the cool metal. A clear, polished top coat enhances the effect.
Enhanced Pioneer Premium Sound System
The Pioneer Premium Sound System in the 2017 Lexus IS was upgraded with two additional 9cm speakers featuring a Coherent Source Transducer, positioned on each side of the instrument panel. Integrating a tweeter and mid-range speaker, this expanded the system to 10 speakers, delivering improved sound reproduction quality.
The system includes a fully digital, Class-D, eight-channel amplifier designed for virtually distortion-free sound with minimal voltage loss. The 10-speaker layout, including a 55mm wide-range tweeter, faithfully reproduces the natural sound dynamics and rich harmonies generated by the high-definition amplification. The system features AM/FM/DAB radio tuner, DVD/CD player, and Bluetooth.
15-speaker Mark Levinson® Premium Surround System
For audiophiles, the 2017 Lexus IS offered an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround System. Specifically engineered for the IS interior, this system delivers 5.1-channel digital surround sound via a speaker array using GreenEdgeTM technology. This technology provides twice the sound output for the same energy consumption as conventional systems. An Auto Volume System automatically adjusts audio levels across different artists and recordings for optimal sound delivery.
New Interior Color Options
For select markets, two new interior shades – Nuance Black (exclusive to F Sport models) and Noble Brown – joined the color scheme choices for the 2017 Lexus IS. Additionally, Moonstone and Ivory options were replaced by Sandstone, a new light shade blending the elegance of Ivory with a more contemporary light tone.
IS F SPORT: Sharpened Style and Performance
The 2017 Lexus IS range included F Sport versions of both the IS 300h and IS 200t, offering a sportier aesthetic and enhanced performance characteristics.
Alt Text: Front view of the 2017 Lexus IS F Sport, showcasing the dark chrome spindle grille and unique mesh pattern.
The F Sport models make a bolder visual statement with a dark chrome finish spindle grille featuring an exclusive three-dimensional “F” mesh pattern. The lower grille section incorporates functional brake cooling ducts, styled to integrate with the car’s side garnishes and contribute to improved aerodynamics. Larger, newly designed 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels are standard on the 2017 Lexus IS F Sport.
Inside, F Sport details include a three-spoke F Sport steering wheel, supportive sports front seats, LFA-style instrumentation, Naguri machined aluminum-effect trim inlays, and aluminum pedals. Adaptive Variable Suspension and specially tuned steering ensure the handling of the 2017 Lexus IS F Sport lives up to its aggressive styling.
Performance Enhancements for a More Engaging Drive in the 2017 Lexus IS
- Aerodynamics Fine-Tuned Through Extensive Wind Tunnel Testing
- New Lightweight and High-Rigidity Alloy Suspension Components
- Revised Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers, and New Rear Stabilizer Bar
- Performance Honed on Demanding Japanese Roads
Focus on Aerodynamic Excellence
Lexus invested considerable effort in optimizing the aerodynamics of the 2017 Lexus IS. Hundreds of hours of testing in a 260-meter wind tunnel, capable of generating hurricane-force winds, allowed for detailed adjustments. Even minor details like adding aluminum tape behind the rear bumper to smooth airflow were considered.
Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi emphasized the importance of aerodynamics for the 2017 Lexus IS: “At 100km/h a car’s performance is affected largely by wind resistance. Even driving around the city, aerodynamics affects both fuel efficiency and handling… this approach has resulted in one of the most refined sedans ever built.”
Revised Suspension and Steering for Enhanced Dynamics
The dynamic performance of the 2017 Lexus IS was improved through precisely calculated revisions to the front and rear suspension and steering systems.
The front double-wishbone suspension received a new forged aluminum lower arm assembly, increasing rigidity by 49% compared to the previous steel component. A new No1 bush, 29% more rigid than before, was also implemented. The use of alloy material in the 2017 Lexus IS allowed for increased rigidity without adding weight. These changes contribute to improved steering response at cruising speeds. The front system also features a new upper support bush, a revised coil spring rate for better roll control, new shock absorber components, and revised damper settings to enhance yaw response.
The rear multi-link suspension of the 2017 Lexus IS also received a new No1 bush for the upper arm, a new stabilizer bar, new shock absorber components, and revised damper settings. The shock absorber changes ensure damping force is generated even at low speeds, contributing to stability and ride comfort.
The electric power steering ECU settings were reassessed and revised to improve steering control in the 2017 Lexus IS.
These comprehensive measures resulted in both standard and F Sport 2017 Lexus IS models exhibiting improved ride quality, body control, rear wheel traction, straight-line stability, steering response, and feedback. Extensive on-road and track testing validated these dynamic improvements before production.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
Lexus’s unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system is standard on all 2017 Lexus IS models. VDIM enhances performance, traction control, and stability by coordinating ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and electric power steering (EPS) based on sensor data.
VDIM in the 2017 Lexus IS optimizes braking, stability, and traction control activation and further improves kinetic performance by integrating all vehicle movement elements, including motor torque, braking, and steering. VDIM operates before the vehicle reaches its dynamic limits, expanding these limits and ensuring smoother vehicle behavior at the limit with less intrusive intervention from active safety systems, leading to a more enjoyable driving experience.
VDIM can preemptively control braking force to each wheel via EBD to maintain stability during cornering. It also helps prevent front-wheel lock-up and regain vehicle balance during hard corner braking. Furthermore, VDIM can augment VSC operation via the electric power steering actuator, providing steering assistance to reduce torque steer and offer steering torque assistance in understeer and oversteer situations, helping the driver maintain stability with minimal input.
Powertrains: Proven Efficiency and Performance in the 2017 Lexus IS
- Retained Proven Full Hybrid and Turbo Petrol Powertrains
- IS 300h with Smooth and Efficient Full Hybrid System
- IS 200t Powered by Responsive 2.0-liter Turbocharged Petrol Engine
- Drive Mode Select with New “Customize” Function
The 2017 Lexus IS retained its established powertrain choices: the IS 300h full hybrid and the IS 200t 2.0-liter turbo petrol.
Full Hybrid IS 300h
The IS 300h, popular in European markets, offers exceptional smoothness and efficiency while maintaining the IS’s driving appeal. The full hybrid powertrain in the 2017 Lexus IS combines a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a compact electric motor, delivering responsive performance supported by Dual VVT-i, D-4S fuel injection, and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system.
The powertrain uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (E-CVT) with a sequential shift mode operated via steering wheel paddle controls. The Lexus Hybrid Drive system delivers low emissions and fuel economy, with official combined cycle test figures from just 97g/km and 4.3 l/100km respectively.
IS 200t Turbo Petrol
The IS 200t is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, twin-scroll turbocharged petrol engine paired with the eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission, originally developed for the IS F and also featured in the RC F.
The engine benefits from D-4ST direct fuel injection and Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW), allowing switching between Otto and Atkinson cycles. It uses direct, high-pressure fuel injection into the cylinders and a low-pressure system for port injection. The 2017 Lexus IS 200t produces 245 DIN hp/180 kW at 5,800rpm, with maximum torque of 350Nm between 1,650 and 4,400rpm.
Drive Mode Select with New “Customize” Function
The Drive Mode Select system in the 2017 Lexus IS offers up to five driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and, on models with Adaptive Variable Suspension, Sport S and Sport S+. The refreshed model adds a “customized” option, allowing drivers to adjust chassis settings, throttle response, and air conditioning to their preferences. EV and Snow modes are also accessible via switches below the rotary control.
Class-Leading Safety Technology Featured in the 2017 Lexus IS
- Advanced Protection with Lexus Safety System+
- Comprehensive Active Safety Features
- Top Five-Star Euro NCAP Safety Rating
- Comprehensive Passive Safety and Pedestrian Protection
- Enhanced Visibility with Full LED Headlights
LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM+
The 2017 Lexus IS incorporates Lexus Safety System+, a suite of active safety features designed to prevent or mitigate collisions in various traffic situations.
Pre-Crash System (PCS)
The Pre-Crash System (PCS) in the 2017 Lexus IS uses a windshield-mounted camera and front-mounted millimeter-wave radar to detect obstacles ahead, even when cornering. PCS calculates collision risk based on vehicle speed, steering angle, and yaw rate. If a high risk is detected, it triggers a warning buzzer and a “BRAKE” command in the multi-information display.
Upon brake pedal application, Pre-Crash Brake Assist provides optimal braking force, achieving deceleration of up to 60 km/h to reduce impact severity or potentially stop the vehicle. If the driver doesn’t respond, Pre-Crash Brake automatically activates. The system also includes pedestrian detection and automatic braking at speeds between approximately 30 and 80 km/h.
Adaptive Cruise Control
The PCS radar is also used for Adaptive Cruise Control in the 2017 Lexus IS, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Once the road is clear, the system smoothly accelerates back to the preset cruising speed. It offers constant speed control or vehicle-to-vehicle distance control modes, with adjustable distance settings displayed on the multi-function display.
Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) in Lexus Safety System+ uses a camera to track lane markings. If the 2017 Lexus IS drifts out of its lane without turn indicators, LDA provides a visual warning and buzzer alert to prompt corrective steering.
Automatic High Beam (AHB)
Automatic High Beam (AHB) in the 2017 Lexus IS maximizes nighttime visibility by automatically switching to low beam upon detecting oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead, optimizing high beam usage without dazzling other drivers.
Road Sign Assist (RSA)
Road Sign Assist (RSA) in the 2017 Lexus IS recognizes traffic signs using the windscreen-mounted camera and displays information to the driver in the multi-information display. RSA detects Vienna Convention-compliant signs, including electroluminescent and flashing signs.
OTHER ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES
Beyond Lexus Safety System+, the 2017 Lexus IS includes additional advanced safety systems and controls. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert aid in safe maneuvering, and all models feature an Auto Location Tire Pressure Warning System. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) continues to coordinate braking, traction, and stability control with electric power steering.
Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
The 2017 Lexus IS offers Blind Spot Monitor, using rear-mounted radar to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes outside the driver’s mirror view. An indicator light illuminates in the mirror when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. If the turn signal is activated with a vehicle in the blind spot, the warning light flashes.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert uses the same radar to warn of approaching vehicles from either side when reversing, triggering a warning light in the door mirror and a buzzer.
Auto Location Tire Pressure Warning System
The Auto Location Tire Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS) uses individual sensors in each tire valve assembly to display tire pressure values for each tire in the instrument binnacle. Low pressure is indicated by an amber display for the affected tire.
PASSIVE SAFETY
The 2017 Lexus IS‘s passive safety is underpinned by a strong, rigid body shell designed for occupant protection in various impact scenarios. It achieved a top five-star Euro NCAP rating and, at the time, the highest score in its class.
All 2017 Lexus IS models are equipped with eight airbags: front (dual-stage), side, and knee airbags for front occupants, and full-length curtain airbags. Front airbags deploy with variable force based on impact severity.
Pop-up hood
The 2017 Lexus IS includes a pop-up hood system to enhance pedestrian safety. A sensor in the front bumper detects pedestrian impact and triggers actuators to raise the hood by approximately 70mm, creating space between the hood and engine for impact absorption. The system is designed to not activate in collisions with stationary objects.
LED headlights
The full LED headlights on the 2017 Lexus IS offer higher intensity illumination at close range, with a 10% intensity improvement at 15 meters compared to HID headlights. The illumination width is also increased by one meter on each side compared to HID headlights and fog lights combined.
History-Making Performance: One Million IS Sales
- One Million Cumulative Global Sales Achieved Since 1999 Launch
- First Lexus Model Designed for Europe, Now a Worldwide Success
- IS Evolution Includes IS F, IS 250 C, and IS 300h Versions
In 2016, the Lexus IS reached a milestone of one million worldwide sales since its 1999 debut. The IS was initially designed for Europe, aiming to attract younger buyers with a sporty, compact sedan featuring sharp styling, a responsive straight-six engine, and rear-wheel drive. As the third Lexus model in Europe, it successfully established Lexus in the competitive premium car market, combining driving dynamics and sporty styling with high equipment and safety levels.
The original IS paved the way for Lexus, leading to the second generation model in 2005, showcasing Lexus’s L-finesse design philosophy and increased refinement. The second generation expanded the IS range with the IS 250 and the first diesel-powered Lexus, the IS 220d, in 2006.
2007 saw the introduction of the IS F, a high-performance sedan and the first Lexus to wear the F performance badge, preceding the LFA supercar and later RC F and GS F models. The IS F featured a 5.0-liter V8 engine with 423 DIN hp and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The IS versatility expanded with the 2009 IS 250C coupe-convertible with a three-part retracting hard top. The current, third-generation 2017 Lexus IS marked a new era with the introduction of Lexus Hybrid Drive, with the IS 300h becoming the most popular choice in Europe, representing 90% of IS sales. The current range also includes the IS 200t with a 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine.
The IS remains a core Lexus model, marketed in over 70 countries, achieving over 6,000 monthly sales. Reaching one million total sales in July 2016 marked a significant achievement for the first Lexus designed primarily for Europe, where its popularity remains strong, with one in five IS models sold worldwide going to European customers.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major Dimensions & Vehicle Weights | |||||
| Overall | Length | mm | 4680 | 4680 | |
| Width | Folded Mirrors | mm | 1810 | 1810 | |
| With Mirrors | mm | 2027 | 2027 | ||
| Height | mm | 1430 | 1430 | ||
| Wheelbase | mm | 2800 | 2800 | ||
| Tread | Front | mm | 1535 | 1535 | |
| Rear | mm | 1550/1540 | 1550/1540 | ||
| Seating Capacity | Pers. | 5 | 5 | ||
| Kerb Weight | Total | kg | 1620-1680 | 1590-1680 | |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | kg | 2130 | 2125 | ||
| Trunk Space | L | 450 | 480 | ||
| Coefficient of Drag | Minimum | 0.25 (eco) /0.26 | 0.28 | ||
| Towing Capacity | With Brake | kg | 750 | 1500 | |
| Without Brake | kg | 750 | 750 | ||
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Capacity | L | 66 | 66 | |
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
| Engine | |||||
| No. of Cyls. & Arrangement | 4 cylinders, in-line | 4 cylinders, in-line | |||
| Valve Mechanism | 16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i | 16-valve DOHC with Dual VVT-i | |||
| Displacement | cm³ | 2494 | 1998 | ||
| Emission Certification | EURO 6 | EURO 6 | |||
| Fuel Type | Petrol 95 or + | Petrol 95 or + | |||
| Max. Output | EEC | kW/rpm (DIN hp/rpm) | 133/6000 (181/6000) | 180/5800 (245/5800) | |
| Max. Torque | EEC | Nm/rpm | 221/4200-5400 | 350/1650-4400 |
| IS 300h | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid System | |||||
| Motor Generator | Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (1KM) | |||
| Max. Voltage | V | 650 | |||
| Max. Output | kW (DIN hp) | 105 (143) | |||
| Max. Torque | Nm | 300 | |||
| Hybrid Battery | Battery Type | NiMH | |||
| Nominal Voltage | V | 230.4 | |||
| Number of Battery Cells | 192 | ||||
| System Voltage | V | 650 | |||
| Total System Output* | kW (DIN hp) | 164 (223) | |||
| * The combined total power of the engine and electric motor (using the battery) (internal measure) | |||||
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
| Performance | |||||
| Max. Speed* | km/h | 200 | 230 | ||
| Acceleration* | 0 to 100 km/h | sec. | 8.3 | 7.0 | |
| * In-house measured figures |
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chassis | |||||
| Transmission | Type | E-CVT | Automatic | ||
| Driven Wheels | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | |||
| Brake Type | Front | Ventilated discs | Ventilated discs | ||
| Rear | Ventilated discs | Ventilated discs | |||
| Lock to Lock | 2.841 | 2.841 | |||
| Min. Turning Radius | Tyre | m | 5.2 | 5.2 | |
| IS 300h | IS 200t | ||||
| Fuel Consumption & Emissions | |||||
| Fuel Consumption | Combined | L/100km | From 4.3 | From 7.0 | |
| CO2 Emissions | Combined | g/km | From 97 | From 162 |
