The Lexus IS has long been celebrated as a compelling entry in the luxury sport sedan segment. For the 2016 model year, Lexus amplified the IS sedan’s appeal by refining its engine offerings and enhancing its sporty character. This article delves into the details of the 2016 Lexus IS lineup, focusing on its performance, engine options, and features that solidify its position as a premier Lexus Sport Sedan.
The 2016 Lexus IS marked a strategic shift for the model, streamlining the engine choices to cater to a broader spectrum of driving preferences. The lineup transitioned to a three-model strategy, featuring the IS 200t, IS 300 AWD, and IS 350, effectively replacing the previous IS 250 and IS 250 AWD models. This change signified Lexus’s commitment to offering more potent and efficient powertrains within their sport sedan range.
The introduction of the IS 200t was a notable highlight for the 2016 Lexus IS sport sedan. This rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model debuted a new 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. This engine, previously featured in the Lexus NX, was adapted for the IS 200t, delivering a spirited 241 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, available across a wide rev range from 1,650 to 4,400 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the IS 200t offered a responsive and engaging driving experience, characteristic of a true Lexus sport sedan.
Lexus engineers meticulously designed this turbocharged engine with advanced technologies to optimize both performance and efficiency. Features like a water-cooled cylinder head, an integrated exhaust manifold, and a twin-scroll turbocharger contribute to rapid throttle response and robust torque delivery even at lower engine speeds. The implementation of Variable Valve Timing intelligent – Wide (VVTi-W) further enhances efficiency by enabling the engine to seamlessly switch between Otto and Atkinson cycles, adapting to varying driving conditions. The sophisticated D-4ST direct injection system combines high-pressure direct cylinder injection with low-pressure port injection, precisely managing fuel delivery to maximize fuel economy and power output in the Lexus sport sedan.
For drivers seeking all-weather capability in their Lexus sport sedan, the 2016 IS 300 AWD presented an attractive option. This model featured a modified 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 255 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque, available from 2,000 to 4,800 rpm. Coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission and Lexus’s advanced all-weather drive (AWD) system, the IS 300 AWD provided enhanced traction and confidence in diverse driving conditions. The continuation of the IS 350, available in both RWD and AWD configurations, ensured that enthusiasts of the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque, remained catered to within the Lexus sport sedan family. The IS 350 RWD utilizes an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission, incorporating G-force Artificial Intelligence (G-AI) for intelligent gear selection, along with paddle shifters for manual control.
The AWD system in the IS 300 AWD and IS 350 AWD Lexus sport sedan models is engineered to optimize grip and handling across varied terrains and weather. It dynamically adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear axles, ranging from a 30:70 split to an even 50:50, proactively responding to driving inputs and road conditions. Furthermore, the Drive Mode Select system, standard across all 2016 IS models, allows drivers to tailor the vehicle’s driving dynamics. ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT modes are standard, while the IS 350 F SPORT adds SPORT S and SPORT S+ modes, which, when equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), further refine the driving experience. AWD models also include a SNOW mode for enhanced stability in winter conditions.
Visually, the 2016 Lexus IS sport sedan maintained its striking and sophisticated design. The signature Lexus spindle grille, L-shaped LED daytime running lights, and sculpted body lines contribute to its aggressive yet elegant stance. Beneath the skin, the IS lineup benefits from multi-link rear suspension and meticulously tuned electronic power steering, derived from the Lexus GS sedan, ensuring agile handling and a rewarding connection between driver and road, hallmarks of a Lexus sport sedan.
Inside the cabin, the 2016 Lexus IS sport sedan upholds Lexus’s reputation for luxury and refinement. For the 2016 model year, the optional Premium Plus Package introduced features like a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers, further enhancing convenience. A heated steering wheel also became available as a standalone option, adding a touch of comfort in colder climates. The IS 350 models received standard 18-inch five-spoke wheels with all-season tires, adding to their visual appeal and road presence. Lexus Enform Service Connect, a newly available feature, provided an added layer of connectivity, allowing owners to remotely access vehicle information such as maintenance alerts and vehicle health reports via a mobile app or website.
The F SPORT package remained a popular choice for those wanting to amplify the sporty character of their Lexus IS sport sedan. Available across the IS range, the F SPORT package enhances handling with unique 18-inch wheels and sport-tuned suspension. Visually, it distinguishes itself with exclusive interior and exterior trim elements. For the IS 300 AWD and IS 350 F SPORT models, an intake sound enhancement further enriches the driving experience with a more pronounced engine note, aligning with the expectations of a performance-oriented Lexus sport sedan.
In terms of technology, the 2016 Lexus IS sport sedan features a Display Audio system with a seven-inch screen, incorporating HD Radio™, Bluetooth® audio, and Siri® Eyes Free mode for compatible iPhones. Available multimedia systems include a standard Lexus Display Audio (LDA) or an optional Lexus navigation system with the second-generation Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI). An available Mark Levinson® Premium Surround System with 15 speakers and 835 watts delivers an exceptional audio experience, further solidifying the IS’s luxury sport sedan credentials.
Safety remains a paramount concern for Lexus, and the 2016 IS sport sedan is equipped with ten standard airbags and the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, integrating ABS, EBD, TRAC, and VSC. Optional safety features include a Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), reinforcing the IS’s commitment to driver and passenger safety.
Key Updates for the 2016 Lexus IS Sport Sedan:
- Introduction of the IS 200t model with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
- Debut of the IS 300 AWD model featuring a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
- Standard 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels for IS 350 models.
- Availability of a heated steering wheel as a standalone option.
- New Premium Plus Package with enhanced convenience features.
- Introduction of Lexus Enform Service Connect for remote vehicle information access.
In conclusion, the 2016 Lexus IS sport sedan lineup represents a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and technology. With its refined engine options, including the new turbocharged IS 200t and the IS 300 AWD, along with the continued presence of the powerful IS 350, the 2016 IS solidified its position as a leading Lexus sport sedan, catering to a diverse range of drivers seeking a dynamic and luxurious driving experience.
