Less is more: Lexus South Africa’s new IS200t

Lexus South Africa have added a new model to the IS range, the IS 200t.

The Breakdown:

The new engine found in the Lexus is a 2.0-litre turbocharged one, producing 180 kW and 350 Nm. This engine is well welcomed considering that your only choice between it is a 3.5 litre V6 normally aspirated engine. A non-boosted 3.5 litre V6 may be quite exciting to drive for many but it’s a bit behind the times in this segment. Practically all the brands in this segment have gone the smaller boosted engine route and Lexus have followed suit.

The characteristics of the new IS 200t E and EX are surely going to change with the new engine, giving the car a more excitable persona. The IS 200t is equipped with an 8 Speed automatic gearbox, not the same ZF unit found in the ISF though. The new engine will bring economy benefits to the car too, Lexus claim a combined cycle of 7.5 litres/ 100km which is optimistically good.

This new engine in the IS is well matched to the likes of the BMW 330i, Jaguar’s 2.0-litre turbo in the XE and Mercedes Benz’s C300 when it comes to output. In terms of specification, Lexus has always thrown in a good amount of equipment as standard which are extras in its rivals. This includes electric seats, which can be heated and ventilated. PDC is also standard as well as a colour infotainment screen in the E model, the EX model adds SatNav and Reverse camera to the list.

Regarding consumer appeal, the IS is the most elusive in the group with the former brands being more popular. This is not a bad thing though because many people long for something a different, so maybe this new addition to Lexus South Africa’s range may be just what some need. The pricing for the new Lexus IS 200t E and EX is as follows.

Lexus IS 200t E – R518 800

Lexus IS 200t EX – R570 300