The new Lexus IS 300h has just arrived in Portugal with improvements in design and driving dynamics. We went to know the arguments of the new Japanese hybrid.
Since the launch of the first generation of Lexus IS, in 1999, the Japanese brand has sold around 1 million copies worldwide, a success that was particularly reflected in Portugal, where the Lexus IS is the brand's best-selling model. Therefore, it was with added responsibilities that Lexus presented the renewed Lexus IS 300h in Portugal, at a time when the first copies are starting to arrive at national dealerships. We went to know the arguments of the new Japanese hybrid.Even more striking design and refined interior
On the outside, the innovations are limited to new light groups with LED technology, larger air intakes and the evolution in the design of the front grille, which is more pronounced and anchored at a higher point. As on the outside, the changes on the inside are subtle but significant: new laser-etched wood inserts, an infotainment system with a 10.3-inch screen, new analogue clock dials and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson sound system ( available as an option in the F Sport version).
As you would expect – this is a premium model – Lexus has not neglected the quality of materials or assembly, again resorting to Takumi artisanal techniques.
Dynamics and hybrid motorization designed for the European market
Knowing the aesthetic changes, it was time to jump to the wheel – first in the Executive version and then in the F Sport version. The renewed Lexus IS 300h returns the hybrid engine that we already knew from the previous model, which consists of a 2.5 liter gasoline engine with an electric unit, for a combined power of 223 hp.
At a glance through the technical data sheet, the performances are not eye-opening – 8.4 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and 200 km/h top speed – but the Lexus IS 300h responds in an exemplary way to the demands. If, on the one hand, the electric motor allows for a relaxed and quiet driving in cities, at faster paces the entry into the scene of the combustion engine is made progressively.
When it comes to fuel consumption – according to the brand, one of the arguments of the new Lexus IS 300h – the brand announces a combined consumption of 4.3 l/100km, but counts with values closer to 6 l/100km in moderate driving. Especially when traveling, which is where the Lexus IS 300h best expresses the benefits of its hybrid system.
If in terms of construction, Lexus has not given up on Japanese craft techniques (and has done very well), when it comes to dynamics and road behavior, the Lexus IS 300h was specifically designed for the European market. According to Lexus, the new stabilizer bar and light alloy materials have increased the suspension's rigidity without incurring any increase in weight, while steering corrections contribute to better control of the car.
A very important point, not least because Europeans (unlike the Japanese) place a high value on dynamic competence.
Whether in the capital's traffic, or in the curves and counter-curves of the Serra de Sintra, we could see the improvements in the behavior of the Lexus IS 300h. In addition to the tighter suspension and a precise and direct steering, the e-CVT box provides a smooth and fluid handling, as you want in a hybrid model. We also militate alongside those who don't love CVT boxes, but in this case we have to take our hats off to Lexus. It works!
The differences between the F Sport and Executive versions – in addition to the aesthetic details – are felt in the suspension and in the specially tuned steering, even though in terms of steering it was not possible to detect any major differences (the floor conditions did not allow for great adventures …).
Final considerations
In this renovation of the Lexus IS 300h, the Japanese brand made a commitment to combine the best possible dynamic performance (without neglecting efficiency) with the typical quality of a premium model (without neglecting comfort). In this first contact, it seems to us that the result was well achieved, and considering the prices in line with the segment, it is expected that the new IS 300h can contribute even more to the success of Lexus in Portugal.
We will soon be back behind the wheel of the Lexus IS 300h for deeper contact.
Prices
The new Lexus IS 300h is available in Portugal with five levels of equipment, between €43,700 and €56,700. Check the price list:Business – €43,700
Executive - 46,600 €
Executive+ – €49,800
F Sport – €50,500
F Sport+ – €56,700