Zero-to-60 acceleration in less than six seconds should make many an import luxury sedan buyer smile out loud. For those keeping score, that’s a bit faster than the BMW 330i, and a lot faster than the preceding IS. According to Lexus, that’s what you get with the 3.5-liter V6 that’s tucked between the wheel wells of the IS 350. Horsepower ratings for the IS 350 are 300 at 6,400 rpm, with the IS 250’s 2.5-liter V6 producing 201 horsepower. Torque, according to Lexus, comes in at 184 lb.-ft. at 3,800 rpm for the IS 250, and 0-60 times are expected to be plus-seven seconds. That sounds like the making of a spunky little beast, despite a curb weight approaching 3,500 pounds – one helped by either a manual or automatic six-speed transmission choice. The automatic gets paddle shifters on the steering wheel, and comes standard on IS models equipped with all-wheel-drive.

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 combo of flowing lines and taut pressure points 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. 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.