2006-2008 Lexus IS: Overview

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Lexus redesigned its sporty compact sedan for 2006. The new IS borrowed its basic architecture and styling cues from Lexus' larger GS sedans. Compared to the 2001-05 IS 300, the 2006s were 3.5 inches longer overall and 3 inches wider, on wheelbases that measured 2.4 inches longer. Two rear-drive models and an all-wheel-drive version were offered; the slow-selling wagon was dropped. The 2006 IS 250 and IS 250 AWD held a 204-horsepower V6 engine, while the IS 350 had a 306-horsepower V6. A six-speed manual transmission was standard for the rear-drive IS 250. Available for the rear-drive IS 250 and standard for other models was a six-speed automatic with manual operation from a shift gate or steering wheel paddles. All IS models came with antilock braking, antiskid/traction control, front torso side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and front knee airbags. Also standard were keyless ignition, an in-dash CD changer, tire-pressure monitor, and 17-inch wheels. Available options included 18-inch wheels, a sport suspension, sunroof, leather/wood interior trim, and heated/cooled power seats. An optional voice-activated navigation system included a rearview TV camera and wireless cell phone link. Rear obstacle detection and steering-linked bi-xenon headlights were also available; so was adaptive cruise control, designed to maintain a set following distance. Another new IS option was Lexus' Pre-Collision System, designed to automatically cinch seatbelts and apply brakes if an unavoidable crash was detected. Lexus' IS duo competed against the Acura TSX, BMW 3-Series, and Infiniti G35.