The Lexus Is has long been a respected name in the compact luxury sports sedan segment, and the 2021 model year marks a significant step forward for this iconic vehicle. Unveiled through an innovative virtual event, the new Lexus IS builds upon its two-decade legacy of delivering exhilarating rear-wheel-drive performance and forging a strong connection between driver and machine. This latest iteration isn’t just a refresh; it represents a pivotal moment for Lexus, embodying the newly defined “Lexus Driving Signature” and setting the stage for future models.
The Birthplace of the Lexus Driving Signature: Shimoyama
At the heart of the 2021 Lexus IS development lies the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. This isn’t just another test track; it’s a symbol of Lexus’s renewed commitment to human-centered design and driving excellence. Shimoyama represents a shift in Lexus’s product development philosophy, emphasizing the Chief Engineer’s role in crafting vehicles that deliver a consistent and elevated driving experience across the entire Lexus lineup.
President Koji Sato and Chief Branding Officer Akio Toyoda have spearheaded this initiative, aiming to create a new generation of Lexus vehicles characterized by balance, refined control, and unwavering confidence. The Shimoyama test facility, inspired by the challenging Nürburgring Nordschleife, provides the ideal environment to hone these qualities. Akio Toyoda himself has a deep connection to both the Nürburgring and the IS, crediting the original IS as the car that ignited his passion for performance driving and Lexus.
The 3.3-mile Shimoyama course, with its dramatic elevation changes and diverse road surfaces, mirrors the demanding conditions of the Nürburgring. Developing the 2021 Lexus IS in this rigorous environment ensured that every aspect of its performance was meticulously scrutinized and optimized, resulting in a vehicle that truly embodies the Lexus Driving Signature.
Enhancing Driving Dynamics: Rigidity, Chassis, and Suspension
The 2021 Lexus IS prioritizes a linear driving experience, offering clear and direct feedback to the driver. To achieve this, Lexus engineers focused on enhancing body rigidity and refining the chassis and suspension systems. Key improvements include reinforcing radiator side supports, increasing front-side-member weld points, and optimizing roof-side reinforcements. These measures significantly increase torsional rigidity, reducing unwanted noise and vibration while enhancing ride comfort and steering responsiveness.
The introduction of optional 19-inch wheels, a first for the IS, further elevates cornering performance and road contact. The suspension layout and front pickup points were revised to accommodate these larger wheels. F SPORT models offer unique 19-inch BBS wheels, especially with the Dynamic Handling Package, while standard models now feature 18-inch wheels, replacing the previous 17-inch ones.
Drawing inspiration from the Lexus LFA supercar, the 2021 IS utilizes lighter weight hub bolts to secure the wheels. This seemingly small change improves fastening strength, increases rigidity, and reduces unsprung weight by approximately 2 pounds. The hub bolts also feature a discreet black coating, maintaining the focus on the wheel design.
Significant refinements were also made to the suspension itself. Lighter coil springs (20% reduction), forged aluminum A-arms (18% reduction), and a redesigned stabilizer bar (17% reduction) all contribute to a substantial decrease in unsprung weight. This reduction, combined with new swing-valve shock absorbers featuring ultra-low-velocity valves, ensures exceptional responsiveness to even minor road imperfections. The result is a consistently smooth and composed ride across various road surfaces. New bound stoppers further refine ride comfort by effectively managing sprung weight.
The F SPORT Experience: Performance and Style Elevated
The F SPORT designation 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 unique front and rear bumpers with aerodynamic enhancements, a distinctive grille surround, rear lip spoiler, and rocker moldings. The F SPORT 19-inch wheels, unique center caps, and wider rear tires (265/35R19) enhance both aesthetics and performance. Functional features include a cool air intake with sound generator and an F SPORT exhaust and diffuser, amplifying the sporty driving experience. F SPORT badging further sets these models apart.
Inside, F SPORT models feature stainless-steel scuff plates, exclusive F SPORT front seats (available in Circuit Red), heated and ventilated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, perforated leather-wrapped shifter, and F SPORT instrumentation. Aluminum pedals and footrest, along with black geometric film window switch surrounds, complete the sporty interior ambiance. Active Sound Control further enhances the V6 engine’s exhilarating notes while minimizing unwanted sounds.
The optional Dynamic Handling Package (DHP) for F SPORT models includes Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), optimized for 2021 to further enhance handling. The DHP also features lightweight 19-inch forged alloy BBS wheels in matte black, saving approximately 4 pounds per wheel compared to standard F SPORT wheels. Rear-wheel-drive F SPORT models with DHP also gain a Torsen® limited-slip differential (LSD) for improved traction during cornering and enhanced straight-line stability. Sport S+ drive mode, exclusive to DHP models, provides aggressive engine and transmission mapping, along with adjusted steering assist and damping force for maximum performance. Custom Mode allows drivers to personalize powertrain, chassis, and air conditioning settings. Visually, DHP-equipped F SPORTs include a carbon-fiber rear spoiler and side-view mirror caps, a center console knee pad with contrast stitching, and a Lexus Card Key.
Athletic Design: Inside and Out
The 2021 Lexus IS boasts a bold and athletic exterior design that reflects its dynamic capabilities. Lower and wider proportions, emphasized by muscular fenders accommodating the larger 19-inch wheels, convey a sense of agility and performance. Sharp character lines along the sides and shoulders add an aggressive edge to the sleek silhouette.
The redesigned spindle grille features a three-dimensional polyhedral structure, projecting a strong visual presence. F SPORT models utilize block forms and a mesh pattern for a sportier look, along with a grille-bottom air intake inspired by the RC F. Standard IS models feature a new grille with intricate mini-spindles. Slender new headlamps with L-shaped daytime running lights and available triple-beam LED headlights contribute to the low center of gravity aesthetic. Lowered side character lines and a sloping rear roofline further enhance the sleek profile. The rear design is defined by an L-shaped blade-style lightbar spanning the vehicle’s width and a sculpted rear deck created using press-in mold construction.
Five new exterior colors join the palette for 2021, including Iridium, Cloudburst Gray, Matador Red Mica, Infrared*, and Grecian Water. Popular existing colors like Ultra White, Eminent White Pearl, and Atomic Silver remain available. (*Infrared and Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 are exclusive to F SPORT models and incur a premium paint charge).
The interior of the 2021 Lexus IS balances luxury and performance. Standard NuLuxe®-trimmed seating, 10-way power driver and 8-way power passenger seats, dual-zone climate control, and an available moonroof provide comfort and convenience. F SPORT models feature unique embossed graphic patterns on the door trim and Black Metallic, Black Geometric Film, or Ash ornamentation. Piano Black accents add a touch of sophistication. NuLuxe interior color options include Black, Glazed Caramel, and Rioja Red, with F SPORT models offering Black, Circuit Red, and two-tone White/Black options. The F SPORT Dynamic Handling Package is available with Black or Circuit Red interiors.
Technology and Connectivity: Multimedia and Sound
The 2021 Lexus IS features a standard 8-inch touchscreen, positioned closer to the driver for ease of use. A larger 10.3-inch touchscreen is available with navigation or the Mark Levinson sound system. The new multimedia system integrates Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Amazon Alexa. These integrations provide seamless smartphone connectivity, allowing users to access navigation, communication, music, and other apps through voice commands and the vehicle’s touchscreen.
The available Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System has been upgraded to a 17-speaker, 1,800-watt system, from the previous 15-speaker, 835-watt setup. The enhanced system aims to reduce interference, improve output and sound quality, and features Quantum Logic Surround for immersive 7.1 surround sound.
Powertrain Options: RWD and AWD Choices
The 2021 Lexus IS offers both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations with three powertrain options. The RWD IS 300 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission. The AWD IS 300 utilizes a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 260 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission and an electronically controlled AWD system that dynamically adjusts torque distribution.
For maximum performance, the IS 350, available in both RWD and AWD, employs a 3.5-liter V6 producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The RWD IS 350 uses the eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic, while the AWD version uses a six-speed automatic. The IS 350 RWD accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, and the IS 350 AWD in 5.7 seconds.
Lexus Safety System+ 2.5: Enhanced Safety Features
The 2021 Lexus IS comes standard with the upgraded Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 (LSS+ 2.5). Enhancements to the Pre-Collision System (PCS) expand its detection capabilities to include preceding bicyclists in daytime and pedestrians in daytime and low-light conditions. Intersection support improves recognition of oncoming vehicles and pedestrians during left turns. Emergency Steering Assist is also included.
All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) now features smooth overtaking of slower vehicles. Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Intelligent High Beams, and Road Sign Assist are also part of LSS+ 2.5. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert provide added safety and convenience.
Conclusion: The 2021 Lexus IS – A New Era of Driving
The 2021 Lexus IS represents a significant evolution for this beloved sports sedan. With its enhanced driving dynamics, striking design, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features, the new IS embodies the Lexus Driving Signature and sets a new benchmark for the compact luxury sports sedan segment. From the rigorous development at Shimoyama to the refined chassis and powerful engine options, the 2021 Lexus IS is designed to deliver an engaging and rewarding driving experience, solidifying its place as a leader in its class and paving the way for the future of Lexus performance vehicles.
