2006 Lexus IS 350 Preview

Sure, Lexus fans may be a bit put off by the smaller, 2.5-liter V6 engine offered up in the IS 250. Lexus officials, however, claim that the smaller engine will be a better performer than the current 3.0-liter inline six, so we'll see. Those fans - and many more - are sure to love the new design of flowing lines, action and taut pressure in specific areas. With a 3.5-liter V6 engine in the IS 350, the new sedan should hold its own on the track, and technology such as a retuned stability control system - for greater feel and control - will add to its appeal. It is larger than the outgoing model - 3.5 inches longer and 3 inches wider - an increase that looks like it has significantly improved interior space. Watch out, BMW - here is a car that goes right to the heart of your core demographic. The difference between today's IS and the 2006 IS goes deeper than just the car - Lexus has added four models from which to choose, and has embellished the sedan with a variety of uptown features. Here is a car that offers American luxury sedan buyers a choice and other luxury competitors a real dilemma. Given Lexus' track record of making and breaking benchmarks, competitors' slide rules are surely out and in use.