2003 Lexus IS 300: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Revised wheel/tire options are the only 2003 news for the sporty compacts at Toyota's luxury division. An inline 6-cyl engine powers the IS 300 sedan and SportCross wagon. The sedan offers manual or automatic transmission, each a 5-speed; the wagon comes only with automatic. The manual sedan includes a firmer suspension. The SportCross has a slightly different front-end look, fold-down front passenger seat, and split fold rear seat. All IS 300s have front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes with full-power assist, traction control, 17-inch wheels, and performance tires. The wagon has wider tires at the rear. All-season tires on 16-inch wheels are a no-charge option. An antiskid system is available with automatic transmission. Also optional are navigation system, power moonroof, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. For 2003, all-season tires are newly available with 17-inch wheels, and there are new designs in both wheel sizes.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has its benchmark in the Lexus ES 300. It blends comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 manages to offer a little more luxury than others in the class.

We Recommend the Acura TL, Audi A4, and new Infiniti G35. All offer comfort, speed, and nimble handling at attractive prices. The sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series is Recommended as a rear-drive alternative. The "3" has enough bodystyles and engine choices to suit anyone. At the other end of the near-luxury spectrum is the posh and comfortable Buick Park Avenue--an old-school luxo-cruiser from Detroit.