2014 Lexus IS 300h

PREVIEW

SPECIFICATIONS

1. A hybrid drivetrain including a 2.5-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine and a nickel-metal hydride battery pack deliver total system output of 220 hp. 2. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) routes power to the rear wheels. 3. Fuel economy clocks in at a combined score of 4.3 L/100 km on the European test cycle. That’s roughly 55 miles per U.S. gallon! 4. The IS 300h will sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.3 seconds.

Redesigned for model year 2014, the IS has gained a striking new body and an impressive cockpit. The car is offered in a variety of different flavors from the base model that comes with a 204 horsepower V6 engine to an all-wheel-drive IS 350 F SPORT with 306 ponies.

But there is one model, though it’s not on the menu for American customers. In true Toyota fashion Lexus also offers a hybrid version of the car in certain global markets like Japan and Europe. The IS 300h features an electrified drivetrain centered on a four-cylinder engine.

INTERIOR

Inside the Lexus IS 300h features basically the same interior as other IS models. The materials are of high quality and the fit and finish is commendable, though the design does seem overly busy.

It’d be nice if the F Sport’s unique gauges were standard in all IS models. It’s practically the same unit as found in the company’s LFA supercar. It features a digital display and a very unique sliding center section the moves depending on what the screen is showing.Perhaps for a little contrast the car’s instrument cluster is rather plain, with letters and numbers presented in an inoffensive font typical of Lexus. Instead of a proper tachometer there’s a meter that indicates what’s going on with the hybrid system, whether the battery is charging or the motorist is driving economically.

UNDER THE HOOD

The IS’s chassis is much more involving than most other hybrids out there. Of course something like a Porsche 918 is a different story, but the IS 300h is far better than, say, a Prius v. It feels like regular versions of the car, just slower.

Driven on a short autocross course, the standard version of the IS hybrid steers and stops pretty much like it should, but acceleration is a little lacking and the tiller’s responsiveness could be sharper. It’s adequate but hammering the right-most pedal will only return leisurely speed increases. Such is the price of efficiency.

In spite of its speed deficit the hybrid’s silence is appreciated while creeping along at low speeds.For instance, the IS 250 is powered by a 204 horsepower V6. It puts out fewer ponies than the 300h’s hybrid system but it still delivers considerably better performance. The IS 250 will accelerate from zero to 60 miles an hour in about 7.7 seconds, which about half a second quicker than the hybrid IS. And don’t even think about comparing it to the IS 350. Rear-wheel-drive models of this car will accomplish the same feat in a claimed 5.6 seconds.

Upping the fun factor an F Sport version of the IS 300h is also available. These cars feature steering and chassis enhancements for better handling. They also receive things like exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, a bolder looking mesh grille and LED fog lamps.