45 Votes

Rumour Mill: Is Lexus Planning An Early Refresh For The IS Series?

Agent009 submitted on 8/12/2008 Official Bell & Ross Timestamp: 3:53:01 PM

70 user comments | Category: Misc News | Source: | SOURCE: www.clublexus.com

I heard a bit about this yesterday when my good friend deepflanger reported deep discounts on certain IS performance parts at dealerships.

The reason given was a refresh was on the way, and they need to clear out inventory.

However with a bit more research it appears the Lexus may be refreshing the IS series ahead of schedule, possibly as early as 2009. Check out this post from one of my many Lexus resources about an upcoming Motor Trend article:

"A mid-gen update for the IS 250/ IS 250 AWD/ IS 350 brings a new grille/fascias/taillamps/wheels plus interior cosmetic/functional tweaks. Retuned suspension/steering improves control and response, the paddle - shifting logic has been upgraded, and VDIM stability becomes an IS 250 standard. The hot IS F variant gets minor interior changes."

From the looks of it, Lexus is starting to move very quickly to curb their recent downturn in sales.

Look for shots soon as they become available.

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User Comments

The only thing that can make the IS better is a coupe and a MT IS350.
— STJ88 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:04:14 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

If the IS350 had an MT I would actually consider buying it, OR, forget the MT, give it AWD and it would be worthwhile...for now I'll look elsewhere.
— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:27:39 PM | | Votes: -1

And offer the coupe version too......
— hao420 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:39:10 PM | | Votes: 1

Screw the MT STJ88, the reason I did not buy the IS is because I wanted AWD which was available only in the IS250 with MT and I hate MT. I have to assume that the AWD of the IS is not robust enough to handle the power of the IS350. The IS has comfy seats but is a bit narrow with a tiny trunk. I ended up buying a nicely loaded Passat and saved a bundle -- so much for the myth of Lexus.
— EnnNorak (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:14:14 PM | | Votes: 0

Actually, EnnNorak the awd is only available in automatic, not in manual. the manual is only available with the rwd version.
— ktu01 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 2:51:55 AM | | Votes: 3

There will be a coupe and Hardtop covertable for the IS, but not till 2010....
— AMiodynski (View Profile)

Posted on 8/14/2008 11:17:34 AM | | Votes: 1

I would be curious to know IS-F sales figures.
— HSCenterconsole (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:06:11 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

It is a limited run of 2500. So don't expect big numbers.
— Agent009 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:45:02 PM | | Votes: 2

Probably...2500?
— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:58:17 PM | | Votes: 0

Agent009, there is no such thing as a "limited run" unless it is guaranteed to be limited in writing. More often than not, when a manufacturer sends out propaganda to the effect that the run will be limited, it is because the number quoted is all they expect to sell anyway.
— EnnNorak (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:17:55 PM | | Votes: 5

The IS must be a little bigger and/or longer. Current models are too small/short.
— BMWsuk (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:08:22 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -3

The IS must be made a little smaller and/or shorter, with less weight and more power - ala the BMW 1-series.
Cureent models are too big/long..
We don't need any more bloated pigs clogging up the highways.
— AgentOrange (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:16:53 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -1

well given the fact the IS Sedan has less rear leg room than the 3 series coupe, and about as much as rear leg room as an Audi TT, or G37, it could stand to be a little longer or at least a longer wheelbase.....for a 4 door sedan thats pretty small
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:26:04 PM | | Votes: 1

thats cos the front seats on the is are FAT. i sat on the back of my friends IS250 and its way cramped compared to my 335i sedan.
— rumnyc (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 7:35:06 PM | | Votes: 4

AgentOrange, what do you mean bloated pigs? large cars are bought for comfort and safety -- we deserve comfort for all the hard work we do. Anti-motorists should get off the road and ride to work on bicycles.
— EnnNorak (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:21:55 PM | | Votes: -1

rumnyc, the 335 has useless rear legroom also. Buy a new Passat.
— EnnNorak (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:23:26 PM | | Votes: -7

deboost if you want but facts dont lie....there is no excuse for it having that small of a backseat....none of you must have never sat in the backseat of a 3 series coupe, or tried to get in the back of an Audi TT or G37, if you dont believe go to edmunds.com, and do a comparison of the cars i just mentioned you will see im right.......want to stay in denial...fine ill give you the numbers.....
1. bmw 335i 33.7
2. Audi TT 29.2
3. G37 29.8
4. IS 30.6
5. Civic Coupe 30.3
6. Mustang coupe 31
— bmwdrvr (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:24:59 PM | | Votes: 2

Actually I am some where in the middle as far as the IS size goes. I like the size for what its suppose to do however believe that it needs to get lighter by about three hundred pounds. Use more high strength steel and aluminum but stay the same size. Also use the 8speed in all the cars as well as a six speed MT. This would jack the price up about 7 grand but to better battle the 3 it would be worth it.
— NItePhire (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:22:08 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

I'm happy with the size of my IS350. Part of the reason I purchased it was due to its 'small' size. I do not carry passengers much (very, very rarely) beyond my two small boys, but having the two rear doors was a huge convenience over my last coupe.

Better handling would be MUCH appreciated, however.

Anything to improve the response time on the paddle shifing would also be nice. Its almost worthless now.
— Janizary (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:51:21 PM | | Votes: 0

I'm not aware of who Toyota sources their transmissions from but the new ZF 8 speed actually uses fewer parts and is cheaper than the outgoing 6 speed. I agree, use the 8 speed: it will help performance and fuel economy.

Simple changes Lexus could make:

-Make the front seats thinner and lighter. This would help drop curb weight and increase rear passenger room. No reason for them to be as bulky as they are. Drop ~30lbs of weight.
-Use CRP for the hood. It would drop ~20lbs of weight.
-Drop the spare and opt for a tire repair kit. Drop ~40lbs of weight
-Use a Li-ion battery instead of the current lead acid. Drop ~40lbs of weight.
-Use the new ZF 8 speed. Save ~10lbs and pick up a performance and fuel economy increase.

That's a quick/cheap 140lbs, probably an 8% improvement in acceleration, 10% improvement in fuel economy, and an improvement in interior room. Not bad for a quick refresh.

P.S. Lexus, do something with the tail lights. They've always seemed awkward to me.
— GreenPlease (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 5:42:03 PM | | Votes: -1

GreenPlease, the current battery in the IS does not weigh 40 pounds. And I seriously doubt the spare weighs 40 pounds as well -- especially if it is a donut.
— gooch (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 10:15:37 AM | | Votes: 1

"From the looks of it, Lexus is starting to move very quickly to curb their recent downturn in sales."

Not as quickly as BMW with the 3-series, which, was redesigned in the SAME year as the IS (2006) and has not only had an exterior refresh but an overhaul to the idrive system.

What seems peculiar or premature about an IS refresh? 4th year in the generation is normal for a few tweaks, especially underneath the skin.

The only major changes I can see for the IS:

-remove amber reflector from tailight, making it all red/white (a la IS-F)
-new wheels
-new ground effects for sport models
— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:26:22 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

On page 2 there's a snapshot of a blurb in Lexus magazine with the real details:

http://www.clublexus.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=127143&d=1216170463

Turn signals in the side mirrors, new wheels, new grille, VDIM on the IS250 and new color options.

— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:44:31 PM | | Votes: -2

M35MT - Well that would be true if BMW has a significant downturn in sales this year. However it is unusual to see Lexus move this fast.
— Agent009 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:50:35 PM | | Votes: -1

I didnt say BMW did it because of a downturn in sales, I was responding to the fact that you said "moving quickly", and simply pointing out the fact that this is normal in year 4 of a generation.
— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 5:00:24 PM | | Votes: -1

The three series was redeisgned for 2006. It is getting a mild refresh for 2009 models. That is hardly 'fast'. Three years is normal for BMW. The refresh is just that. It is not a redesign.
— lewishamiltonpimp (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 5:13:43 PM | | Votes: -1

Why is it being assumed that Lexus is "moving fast?" They have always tweaked their models mid-life. Haven't they? I know they did with the first IS, but most of those tweaks were cosmetic. Last year, they tweaked the GS. My guess is that this is part of their normal product lifecycle.
— bobs4state (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:11:48 PM | | Votes: 1

More evidence that autospies readers arent interested in facts! I post a REAL LINK to information concerning the thread - and get deboosted!
— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 10:24:01 AM | | Votes: 1

"Rumour Mill: Is Lexus Planning An Early Refresh For The IS Series?"

I would say yes, doesn't Toyota normally redesign their cars every 6 months :-?
— EL34 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:37:41 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

You must be mistaking "redesign" for "launching" next generation vehicles. They do have many next generation launches. No worries, we did not expect you to understand it anyways.
— _43LE (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 6:12:57 PM | | Votes: 0

The IS looks so dated. It really needs that refresh.
— Star (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 4:49:08 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

Based on the fact that most competitors handle better and have more options (manual trannies + awd) the one thing this car has going for it is its style.
— M35MT (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 5:01:55 PM | | Votes: 2

Well, considering all the new competition (A4, C-Klasse, G37, and the facelifted leader in sales 3), the refresh was inevitable.
— audirevolution (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 5:02:19 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 5

This is old news.
Nothing new was revealed in this article.
— adamsaf723 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 5:57:01 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

Exactly right!
— bobs4state (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:12:52 PM | | Votes: 2

isn't a refresh overdue already? it came out before the current 3-series and the bmw has already been refreshed.

they've got to do something to prop up collapsing sales!
— enthusiastx11 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 6:05:01 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 0

If I'm not mistaken, they were both released for the 2006 model year?
— _43LE (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 6:13:32 PM | | Votes: 3

2006 model year, yes. but the IS was in market months before the 3-series.
— enthusiastx11 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 7:53:08 PM | | Votes: -2

It just goes to show Lexus is copying BMW yet again!
— EL34 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:25:07 PM | | Votes: 0

EL34, explain your comment with logic please?
— _43LE (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 10:50:11 PM | | Votes: 2

Now I only wish they would rush a redesign for the ES, GS, and SC. That should be a higher priority.
— 0to60 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 6:37:41 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

Same here. However, the new ES will not come out until the new Camry does (around 2012).
The SC will be discontinued.
The GS recently got a mild facelift.
— audirevolution (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 6:56:15 PM | | Votes: 0

I hope not.... FIX THE SC FIRST!!!!!!!

That thing is so ugly, I hate looking at them day in and day out. Its dating the entire lineup in my opinion.
— TehShibbs (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 7:09:31 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

The SC is gone...
— Htay7500 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 7:14:30 PM | | Votes: 0

"Rumour Mill: Is Lexus Planning An Early Refresh For The IS Series?"

I have heard from my inside tract Lexus is planning a tire package with 26 inch rims.

:-/
— EL34 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:24:04 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: -4

That's interesting because my inside tract told me that BMW was planning a tire package with the exact same size!
— _43LE (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 10:54:59 PM | | Votes: 2

That's terrific!
— EL34 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 11:51:10 PM | | Votes: 2

Ahhh! But will they have spinners on those 26 inch rims? Now that is the real question.
— Agent009 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 8:28:53 AM | | Votes: 0

Its not early, its the usual 3 year Lexus refresh.....sigh......
— JudasLease (View Profile)

Posted on 8/12/2008 9:59:37 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

All they need is a better IS250, give it more power. Offer a manual but I doubt anyone would buy it.

The only body change will probably be the shape of the headlights, the LF-A's dragon design maybe?

3rd year is normal.
— huu76 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 12:13:20 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: -1

yeah...a new IS250. that'll save the brand's massive sales declines over the past few months. riiigght.
— enthusiastx11 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 10:22:04 AM | | Votes: -1

This site continues to stay true to form. The IS has been on market since the 2006 model year, of course for 2009 it is going to get some changes. That isn't early, its right on time, and it isn't going to stop Lexus' sales slide either. They need the coupe/convertible IS, new RX and the Prius-based hybrid. Then once all of those are launched they can get around to doctoring on the irrelevant ES, old GS and the-didn't-live-up-to-the-hype LS.
— Mercedes (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 4:37:25 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

The IS350 looks pretty great, but MT they lag in every area of performance in general in stock form.
— Agent009 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 8:29:44 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 2

Man, show a little objectivity sometimes. We know you love Lexus, but be realistic about it.
— 222max (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 10:38:19 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

I like the Lexus IS series.

However, Lexus seats don't go low enough for me. I am a little over 6' 1" and with the seat all the way to the bottom, my head is just barely beneath the headliner of the car.

This is true of the ES, IS, and GS sedans.

So no Lexus for me. I have plenty of room in the new TSX though!
— blackbr (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 9:09:20 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 3

Lexus and Acura cater mostly to women indeed.
— Star (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 11:35:38 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 4

If this is true maybe there is some truth also to the Highlander post the other day in regards to it being tweaked.

The IS is Lexus' big seller, just as the Highlander was a HUGE seller for Toyota until the newer BIGGER Highlander debuted last year and has been slumpin since the beginning. Maybe some more efficiency, some tweaking of the FUGLY rearend where it says Highlander on the back like it was a HUMMER. A change to the taillights and a less 4 Runner-ish stance may do it some good.
— Whelan (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 11:27:19 AM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

"The IS is Lexus' big seller"

Um...no. Lexus sells mostly SUVs. The IS is a poor seller.
— Star (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 11:34:32 AM | | Votes: 2

We're not talking SUVs though, they belong in a different category, hence they get their own magazines and such. The new IS sells well compared to the last IS300 and from at least my own perspective around my state I see more new IS cars than the GS and ES.
— Whelan (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 12:26:18 PM | reply to this comment | Votes: 1

If we are not including the SUVs Lexus is out of the game considering how poor the rest of the sales are. The new IS might sell better than the old one but that's hardly enough to call it a good seller. Without the SUV sales Lexus is in big, big trouble.
— Star (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 12:49:42 PM | | Votes: 1

Lexus out of the game without SUVs?
You badge whores really need to get your heads out of your --s!
— david999 (View Profile)

Posted on 8/13/2008 8:16:01 PM | | Votes: 1

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Rumour Mill: Is Lexus Planning An Early Refresh For The IS Series?

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