The redesigned IS goes on sale this June. The new car shares its platform with the GS and has a roomier backseat than the previous version. Lexus also promises a more engaging driving experience. Curiously, the hybrid version won't be sold in North America. It will use the same 2.5- and 3.5-liter V6 engines from the outgoing version and will offer rear- and all-wheel drive. The RWD IS350 will have an eight-speed automatic, while all other versions get six-speed automatic. The outgoing IS has secure handling, but the ride is jittery. The 2.5-liter V6 delivers decent acceleration and a good 24 mpg overall. The cabin is tight, and the rear seat is extremely cramped. The hard-top convertible has little trunk space with the top lowered. Reliability has been above average.
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