Lexus has redefined its compact luxury sports sedan with the unveiling of the new 2021 Lexus Is. This model marks a significant step forward, embodying the brand’s commitment to exhilarating driving performance and sophisticated design. Developed at the cutting-edge Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama, the 2021 Lexus IS is the first Lexus vehicle to showcase the groundbreaking “Lexus Driving Signature,” promising a more connected and responsive driving experience.
The Genesis of the Lexus Driving Signature at Shimoyama
The 2021 Lexus IS is not just a facelift; it represents a fundamental shift in Lexus’ approach to vehicle development. The Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama, a state-of-the-art facility inspired by the demanding Nürburgring Nordschleife, has become the crucible for forging the Lexus Driving Signature. This philosophy, championed by Toyota President Akio Toyoda, emphasizes a human-centered approach, focusing on creating a harmonious connection between driver and machine. The goal is to deliver a consistent Lexus driving feel across the entire model range, characterized by linear steering, precise brake response, and confident handling, all while maintaining exceptional ride comfort.
Alt text: Front view of a 2021 Lexus IS F SPORT model aggressively cornering on the Shimoyama test track, highlighting its dynamic driving capabilities.
Chief Engineer Naoki Kobayashi emphasizes that the primary objective for the 2021 Lexus IS was to create a car that intuitively communicates with the driver, regardless of driving conditions. This focus on driver engagement and control is central to the Lexus Driving Signature and is meticulously honed at Shimoyama. The challenging 3.3-mile track, with its varied surfaces and significant elevation changes, provides the ideal environment to push vehicles to their limits and refine every aspect of performance.
Enhanced Driving Dynamics: Rigidity, Chassis, and Suspension Upgrades
The pursuit of driving perfection in the 2021 Lexus IS led engineers to meticulously refine the vehicle’s core structure and chassis components. A key area of improvement is body rigidity. Reinforcements to radiator side supports, increased weld points on front side members, and optimized structures extending from the C-pillars to the roof sides contribute to a more solid and stable platform. This enhanced rigidity translates to reduced noise and vibration, improved ride comfort, and, crucially, more responsive steering and handling.
The 2021 Lexus IS also introduces larger 19-inch wheels for the first time, enhancing cornering grip and road contact. Suspension geometry and front pickup points have been revised to accommodate these larger wheels. F SPORT models offer unique 19-inch wheel designs, including exclusive BBS forged alloy wheels as part of the Dynamic Handling Package. All other models now come standard with 18-inch wheels, an upgrade from the previous 17-inch size.
Alt text: Close-up of the 19-inch F SPORT wheels on a 2021 Lexus IS, showcasing the intricate design and performance-oriented features like lightweight hub bolts.
Drawing inspiration from the Lexus LFA supercar, the 2021 Lexus IS utilizes lighter weight hub bolts to secure the wheels. These bolts improve fastening strength, further increasing rigidity and enhancing braking and handling performance. This seemingly small change also contributes to a reduction of approximately 2 pounds in unsprung weight.
Further refinements to the suspension system include lighter coil springs (20% reduction), forged aluminum A-arms (18% reduction compared to steel), and a revised stabilizer bar (17% weight reduction). These reductions in unsprung weight are crucial for improving suspension responsiveness and overall handling agility. New swing-valve shock absorbers with ultra-low-velocity valves are implemented to ensure consistent ride quality across varying road surfaces, responding effectively even to minor road imperfections.
F SPORT: Amplifying the Performance and Style of the 2021 Lexus IS
The F SPORT trim level for the 2021 Lexus IS is now exclusively available on the IS 350 model, powered by a potent 311-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. F SPORT models are visually distinguished by a unique front bumper with aerodynamic enhancements, a distinctive rear bumper, a mesh grille, rear lip spoiler, and rocker moldings. Inside, F SPORT models feature exclusive front seats, stainless steel scuff plates, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals.
Alt text: Interior of a 2021 Lexus IS F SPORT in Circuit Red, highlighting the sporty seats, steering wheel, and overall driver-focused cockpit design.
For the ultimate in performance, the Dynamic Handling Package (DHP) further enhances F SPORT models with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), optimized for the 2021 Lexus IS. The DHP also includes lightweight 19-inch forged alloy BBS wheels in matte black, saving approximately 4 pounds per wheel. Rear-wheel drive F SPORT models with DHP gain a Torsen® limited-slip differential (LSD) for improved traction and handling during cornering. The Sport S+ drive mode, exclusive to DHP models, sharpens engine and transmission mapping and adjusts steering and damping for a more aggressive driving experience.
Athletic and Provocative Design Language
The exterior of the 2021 Lexus IS has undergone a dramatic transformation, projecting a bolder and more athletic stance. The car appears lower and wider, with muscular fenders accommodating the larger wheel options. Sharp character lines and a sleek silhouette contribute to an aggressive yet refined aesthetic.
The signature spindle grille has been redesigned with a three-dimensional polyhedral structure. F SPORT models feature a unique mesh pattern grille and functional air intakes inspired by the RC F. Slender new headlamps with L-shaped daytime running lights and available triple-beam LED headlights further emphasize the low and wide front fascia. The rear of the 2021 Lexus IS is characterized by a striking L-shaped blade-style lightbar spanning the width of the vehicle, creating a distinctive visual signature.
Alt text: Detailed rear view of the 2021 Lexus IS F SPORT showcasing the full-width L-shaped blade-style LED lightbar, a signature design element.
Five new exterior colors are introduced for the 2021 Lexus IS: Iridium, Cloudburst Gray, Matador Red Mica, Infrared, and Grecian Water, expanding the already diverse palette.
Interior Refinement and Technology Integration
The interior of the 2021 Lexus IS balances luxury and sportiness. Standard NuLuxe®-trimmed seats, power-adjustable front seats, and dual-zone climate control provide a comfortable and refined environment. F SPORT models feature unique trim accents and sport seats.
Technologically, the 2021 Lexus IS receives significant upgrades. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard, with an available 10.3-inch touchscreen for models equipped with navigation or the Mark Levinson sound system. The new multimedia system features Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Amazon Alexa integration, providing seamless smartphone connectivity and voice control.
The available Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System has been enhanced to a 17-speaker, 1,800-watt system, delivering an immersive audio experience with improved sound quality and reduced interference.
Powertrain Options: RWD and AWD Choices
The 2021 Lexus IS continues to offer both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with three powertrain options. The RWD IS 300 is powered by a 241-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission.
The IS 300 AWD utilizes a 260-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, distributing power to all four wheels for enhanced traction. For maximum performance, the IS 350, available in both RWD and AWD, features a 311-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The RWD IS 350 uses the eight-speed transmission, while the AWD version uses the six-speed automatic. The IS 350 RWD achieves a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5: Advanced Safety Technologies
The 2021 Lexus IS comes standard with the enhanced Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 (LSS+ 2.5). This suite of safety features includes an improved Pre-Collision System (PCS) with enhanced detection of pedestrians and bicyclists, even at intersections. All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) now includes a smooth overtaking function. Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Intelligent High Beams, and Road Sign Assist are also part of the LSS+ 2.5 package. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also standard, further enhancing safety and driver confidence.
Alt text: Display showcasing the advanced safety features of the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 in the 2021 Lexus IS, emphasizing driver assistance and collision prevention technologies.
Lexus AR Play App: Explore the 2021 Lexus IS in Augmented Reality
To further engage potential customers, Lexus has launched the Lexus AR Play app. This augmented reality app allows users to virtually explore the 2021 Lexus IS in detail using their smartphones or tablets. Users can customize the car’s color, open doors, examine features, and even “drive” the car in augmented reality. The Lexus AR Play app provides an innovative and interactive way to experience the new 2021 Lexus IS.
The 2021 Lexus IS represents a significant evolution for the iconic sports sedan. With its enhanced driving dynamics, bold new design, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features, the 2021 Lexus IS is poised to reaffirm its position as a leader in the compact luxury sports sedan segment.
