Lexus is narrowing its target with the redesigned 2006 IS, going after the strongest competitors in the class. Lexus offers two versions of the new IS with varying engine, transmission, and drivetrain differences. The base IS 250 has a small-displacement V6 making 204 horsepower that can be hooked to a manual or automatic transmission. An AWD version of the IS 250 is also available. The performance-oriented 2006 IS 350 is rear-drive only, powered by a new V6 producing 306 horsepower. But, only one transmission is available with the bigger six, and that is a six-speed sequential automatic. Heightening the IS 350 driving experience are paddle shifters integrated into the steering wheel, but when BMW is your gun sights, nothing replaces a clutch and a stick.