2016 Lexus IS vs. 2014 Lexus IS - Old vs. New

The 2016 Lexus IS (facelift) was presented at 2016 Auto China (2016 Beijing Motor Show) last month. Here's how it compares with the pre-facelift 2014 Lexus IS in images.

Exterior

The facelift has given the Lexus IS a very aggressive front fascia. Changes include sharper headlamps, new spindle grille and larger air intakes. The F Sport models get exclusive jet-black metallic coated 3D F-mesh pattern grille with functional brake ducts. The profile is more or less unchanged; there's nothing to mention except the new 10-spoke, 17-inch wheels with bright machine finishes which are a part of the standard equipment in the new IS.

At the rear, the facelifted IS features more pronounced, triple layered “L”-shaped LED lights in the tail lamps and new rectangular chrome exhaust tips. Also worth noting is the availability of two new paint schemes: Deep Blue Mica and Graphite Black Glass Flake.

Interior

Stepping inside, the instantly visible change is the new 10.3-inch high-resolution display for the infotainment system, which replaces the 7-inch system to provide a larger and clearer experience. To make the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) easier to use, an "Enter" button has been added to its side on the centre console. The audio and ventilation control panel has been refined to fit completely with the knee bolsters, with a new hairline-finish surface.

Other changes include new stitching on the top of the instrument panel hood; refined speedometer and tachometer; addition of two new shades of black and brown to the interior colour mix including Nuance Black and Noble Brown; replacement of Moonstone and Ivory interior color mix by Chateau; new markings on the dashboard integrated analogue clock; new cup holders; and a new larger leather-wrapped palm rest with stitching for the Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

Mechanicals

Also See: Lexus LC 500h – Geneva Motor Show Live

The facelifted Lexus IS remains mechanically unchanged. The IS 200t continues being powered by the 241 hp 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the IS 300 and IS 350 sport the same 255 hp 3.5-litre V6 engine and 306 hp 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine respectively. There's no mention yet of the Lexus IS 300h, the hybrid model powered by a 223 DIN hp (164 kW/220 hp) petrol-electric powertrain.

Technologies

The facelfited Lexus IS features upgraded Lexus Safety System + which includes Automatic High Beam (AHB), Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist and Radar Cruise Control.