Updated 2009 Lexus IS images arrive on web
Click above to view gallery of the 2009 Lexus IS
While work is reportedly be done on developing a cabrio version of the Lexus IS and a lighter-weight version of the fire breathing IS-F, the IS 250 and 350 need some attention too. They're receiving mild updates for the 2009 model year, images of which have found their way onto the web. Though not expected to officially bow until the Paris Motor Show in October, the '09 IS will be sporting an ever so slightly revised front end, new side mirrors with turn signal indicators, redesigned taillamps with integrated L-shaped reverse lights and a new wheel design. In true Lexus tradition, the exterior changes are about as minimal as they get and require close comparison with an '08 model to appreciate. We can see that the front bumper, lower air intakes and fog lights have been softened, but that's about it. While we don't know anything official about mechanical changes, Carscoop reports that a revised electronic stability control system will be part of the '09 package. Check out all the pics in our gallery below.
Gallery: 2009 Lexus IS
[Source: Carscoop]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
John R 2:02PM (9/03/2008)
Good timing, this.
The Hyundai below kind of apes the IS but I find the Korean more desirable, fancy that.
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Red 2:25PM (9/03/2008)
It's funny you say that, as I was thinking the same thing. I don't think I ever imagined myself saying I'd rather have a Hyundai over a Lexus.
Now whether I buy one or not, is a different story, as I'm not in the market for either car right now. But still...
Flashpoint 3:36PM (9/03/2008)
The only thing that stops me from wanting a Genesis is the fact the interior is smaller than my Chrysler 300.
Other than that, I'd glady take the Genesis V8 over the Lexus. The only lexus that gives you the same bang for the buck as a Genesis is the LS460.
stevereportdotcom 2:04PM (9/03/2008)
Yawn... The 1st gen IS had more personality then this. The look of this car gets old quick. While the IS350 is interesting, Lexus needs the coupe in this varient asap before everyone falls asleep. Toyota needs some flare soon. Hyundai is knocking at there door.
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Serge 2:09PM (9/03/2008)
I can't believe anyone buys this poseur-mobile. I hope they updated the fake exhaust tips... those are the funniest things you'll ever see.
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Serge 2:10PM (9/03/2008)
LOL...
I thought they mean the IS-F :)
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Franz 2:18PM (9/03/2008)
I've never been a fan of Lexus, but I think this is quite a good looking car. I've always liked their interiors too... the IS-F interior is beautiful IMO. It's ridiculous that they never offered the IS350 with a manual tranny though.
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Torrent 2:36PM (9/03/2008)
This is probably the most unimportant facelift report since the 2009 Civic....... or the 09 XLR.....
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Nellydesign 4:38PM (9/03/2008)
And people get all over the big three for the lack of change in their refreshes. Why even bother if the change is this minimal??
Eddie 2:43PM (9/03/2008)
Boring. I'd much rather buy a '09 A4 S-Line.
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IowaSuby 5:06PM (9/03/2008)
I agree, Audi S4 > Lexus IS
IowaSuby 5:10PM (9/03/2008)
I meant A4 S-Line but obviously I'd take an S4 over this too!
PiCASSO 9:54PM (9/03/2008)
Yes, I'd like an Audi too... and make regular visits to the dealership so that I can name all the mechanics by their first name. Right.
I prefer the reliability of a Lexus, thank you.
Chris (Toronto) 6:28PM (9/03/2008)
Nice looking camry.
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Xcountryflyer 3:51PM (9/03/2008)
The IS series best looking Lexus by far. I wouldn't touch the other ones with a 10 foot pole, but I'd consider an IS.
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Torrent 6:52PM (9/03/2008)
Idk I kinda like the LS. It's real big and powerful.
too bad the exhaust isn't connected to the pipes, and the price is way over the line... If I pay that much, why not just get a Quattroportte?
I also like the LX, but the IS is third for best looking in my book. Nice looks for an entry level sedan, but even better is the '09 Audi A4. Audi doesn't know how much higher their price could have been for their new A4.
k.w.a 5:08PM (9/03/2008)
they bland-ified one of the few interestingly-styled Lexuses left in the lineup. ugh. Those '99 Camry tailights are not cool
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vrocsone 12:12AM (9/04/2008)
photoshop those side vents and fog lights out and the front bumper will look like a corvetter front bumper. lol
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Sharone 5:21AM (9/04/2008)
Desperately needs a DSG type gearbox.
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MikeW 10:21AM (9/04/2008)
No, Toyota needs to dump the underperforming 4gr-fse and install the 3gr-fe & 8 speed automatic.