Professional golfer and Lexus brand ambassador Miguel Tabuena has refined his game to Olympic levels, the highest and most prestigious possible. The same may be said of Lexus and its expertise in designing, engineering, and manufacturing luxury hybrid vehicles. Its newest “hole-in-one” is the Lexus IS 300h, and its “winning swing” is a suspension system tuned and refined in the Shimoyama Test Track.
That’s not all about the IS 300h that makes it exceptionally sporty. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear is complemented by ABS, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and a Traction Control System (TCS). As Lexus Philippines put it, the IS 300h will bring out the sporty driver in you—if you so desire.
So, what can a buyer look forward to with this premium luxury hybrid sedan?
Inside, there’s the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and Miracast come standard. Front and center on the dashboard is an 8-inch touch display for the audio system. A 10-speaker audio system can satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles.
A power tilt and telescoping tiller and leather-wrapped wheel with paddle shifters offer an even more satisfying driver and car interface. Voice recognition adds ease of use as well. There is also a multi-information TFT display where drivers can monitor their fuel economy through the Eco-Driving Indicator Light and Zone Display.
The luxuriously crafted interior is available in black synthetic leather. Driver and front passenger are treated to 8-way power-adjustable seats.
8 airbags
A Parking Assist Monitor guides by superimposing guidelines on the back camera’s video screen, ideal in crowded parking spaces. Adding to this is a clearance and back sonar to make sure that drivers are aware of everything behind them when in reverse. Eight sensor-controlled airbags line the cabin, giving enhanced protection.
Wide and low design
Aerodynamics plays a crucial role in the IS 300h. Lexus Philippines stresses that the sedan’s sculpted aerodynamic shape all begins with the low and imposing stance that’s a full 30 mm wider than its predecessor. Meanwhile, the silhouette emphasizes the “wide and low” IS design DNA. Topping things off are fresh 18-inch alloy wheels shod with 235/45 R18 tires. Improved brakes add stopping power and give drivers a more natural brake feel.
7 colors
The IS 300h’s seven exterior colors include newly developed chromatic colors Sonic Titanium, Sonic Iridium, and Sonic Chrome. Colors exclusive to the IS 300h variant are Sonic Quartz and Red Mica Crystal Shine. Graphite Black Glass Flake and Heat Blue Contrast Layering round off the head-turning choices.
The IS 300h is being positioned as one of the most attractive compact luxury sedans available in the market with sophisticated hybrid technology and built with the Takumi-level craftsmanship. Its P2.978-million SRP would give its closest German rival—a model not offered with a hybrid drivetrain locally—a run for its money.
Lexus Philippines points out that the Lexus DNA dictates that all of its models offer drivers a unique Lexus driving signature, and the new IS is a “very significant model for the luxury brand because it was the catalyst for this exciting and new direction.”
Since the brand’s launch in 1989, Lexus has been trailblazing directions in the luxury motoring arena. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. Being the luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world’s first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 1.5 million hybrid vehicles. Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries worldwide.