New Lexus IS F SPORT Outperforms Rivals in Car and Driver Comparison

WATERTOWN, Mass., June 5, 2013 — Lexus has spent the last year or so touting the more emotive styling and improved performance of its revamped lineup, and as its new models are put through their paces by critics, it is becoming clear that its claim is not merely a marketing campaign. The latest example is the all-new F SPORT trim of the redesigned 2014 Lexus IS, which topped the 2013 BMW 335i M Sport and 2013 Cadillac ATS 3.6 in a recent Car and Driver comparison.

As they expected, Car and Driver editors found the 2014 Lexus IS 350 F SPORT to be a serene, obedient ride when cruising on the highway, but they were surprised to find that the new model also pounced on each turn with more gusto than its competitors once taken on back roads. The IS 350 F SPORT's 3.5-liter V6 engine was more refined than the V6 unit in the Cadillac, and it was even comparable to the revered inline-six in the BMW. Meanwhile, the eight-speed automatic transmission of the Lexus IS shifted faster and more fluidly than the ATS' six-speed automatic transmission, matching the eight-speed automatic gearbox in the 3 Series shift for shift.

"Buyers will find the same high level of quality and comfort that they expect in the new Lexus IS, but its styling and on-road demeanor are noticeably more aggressive," said Vincent Liuzzi, general manager of Lexus of Watertown, a Lexus dealer in Boston. "That is particularly true of the F SPORT trim, which will come with a specially tuned suspension when it goes on sale this month. The auto industry is quickly learning that Lexus has put the 'sport' back in its sport sedans."

The testers at Car and Driver also gave the Lexus IS 350 F SPORT a top score of 10 in the Driver Comfort and Fit and Finish categories, citing the "immaculate" lateral support of the bolstered driver's sport seat. The Lexus IS features a more driver-focused cockpit for the 2014 model year, with the dashboard divided into a distinct display zone and operation zone. Rear passengers benefit from 1.6 inches of added legroom thanks to a longer wheelbase and the new design of the front seats.

Donning even bolder design cues than standard 2014 Lexus IS models, the F SPORT trim also received high marks from Car and Driver for its exterior and interior styling. Outside, the Lexus IS F SPORT is outfitted with a larger full-faced mesh grille and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels with split spokes pulled from the Lexus LFA supercar. In the cabin, owners will find LFA-inspired instrumentation, aluminum sport pedals, and a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

"The Lexus IS F SPORT walks the line between sophistication and sportiness better than any car in its class," added Liuzzi. "It will keep you extremely comfortable when you're stuck in a long commute home on I-95, but it's ready to let loose as soon as you break free at your exit."

About Lexus of Watertown:
Lexus of Watertown is a recipient of multiple Elite of Lexus awards, given annually to dealerships that showcase overall excellence. They have a wide selection of new and certified pre-owned Lexus models, in addition to an exemplary service department that keeps customers coming back. Easily accessible from MetroWest, the North Shore and the South Shore, Lexus of Watertown is just minutes off the Mass Pike between Route 128 and Route 93. For more information, visit them online at www.lexusofwatertown.com, call them at 888-677-9785, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LexusWatertown, or stop by their showroom at 330 Arsenal Street in Watertown, Mass.