2021 Lexus IS Gets a Handling-Focused Refresh

2021 Lexus IS Gets a Handling-Focused Refresh

Published: July 7, 2020 | By: American Luxury Staff

This week, Lexus revealed the IS for 2021. What’s new for the nimble, capable little speedster?

The model’s F Sport design has received a tweak here and there. Most notable alterations include a light bar in the back, a new intake up front. And the expressive panel side crease is a little more severe, giving the design language a bit of additional imperative. But handling upgrades appear to be the real story.

Lexus has brought Adaptive Transmission Control to the IS, which, they tell us, will allow the car to make on-the-fly gear changes from the six-speed—AWD—or eight-speed—RWD— automatic gearbox, as needed for optimal response. Weight relief was also on the list of changes for the 2021 model year, with pounds shaved from structural nipping and tucking, and stiffer and lighter springs in the picture as well.

The top of the heap is the IS F Sport with the Dynamic Handling Package, which brings a new sport mode to the model, as well as revised adaptive suspension, among other performance tweaks.

Pricing and delivery estimates for the 2021 Lexus IS are forthcoming.

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