All new Lexus IS250/350
Regardless of how you feel about the looks of the new IS, it's one of the most aerodynamic cars on the road, with a CD of 0.28. Of note, Lexus says the IS is one of the few cars with downforce, not lift, which is reassuring in a car with a governed top speed of 142 mph. The interior details are more non-offensive than cutting-edge, complemented by high-quality materials and a superb sound system with 13 speakers and iPod compatibility. The perforated leather front seats of our Tungsten Pearl IS 350 test car, heated and vented, offer good lateral support, and the navigation system is a snap to use, with a large screen and handy voice commands. Taller drivers, those over 6 ft. 2 in. or so, will fit just fine in the car, but should avoid the optional sunroof because it cuts more than an inch from the head room. Also, let it be known that although the new IS is larger than the outgoing model, it feels no more spacious in back.

Which brings to mind this point. Lexus says that if you're in the market for a near-luxury people hauler, buy their ES 330. However, if you want a near-luxury car in which carrying passengers is less important than carving canyon roads, the IS is for you.

On many levels, Lexus has clearly succeeded. But some of us feel that the new IS, as competent as it is, has become more of a baby GS sedan and less competitive with the BMW 3 Series. So, while we wish Lexus had emphasized the sporting quotient over the luxury accouterments, Lexus has proven time and again that it knows its customers better than anyone.

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