The mixture of relatively compact dimensions, excellent rear-wheel drive handling, and impeccable build quality marked this out as more of the same – despite the differences. The use of aluminium in its construction managed to keep weight gain down to an acceptable 50kg or so, which is an impressive feat considering the body was also stronger and stiffer. The new model was longer and wider and styled to the new Lexus L-finesse design philosophy, allying it visually to the larger GS and LS models. And it really was a case of all change, both visually and technically. Lexus IS history: second generationīuilding upon the success of the first IS, Lexus launched its second-generation version in 2005. In addition, the Yamaha-developed 200bhp four-cylinder RS model has proved to be a popular personal import from Japan, despite never being offered for sale officially in the UK. It proved the marque’s core values could remain intact further down the price scale.Īnd in the intervening years, the Lexus IS has become a popular choice with enthusiasts, who love its balanced rear-wheel-drive handling and wide tuning options. The first generation IS remained in production until 2005 and marked a significant milestone in the development of Lexus. It was a further addition to the ranks of the lifestyle/crossover estate car market. At the same time, the five-door SportCross was announced, significantly adding appeal to the range. Power rose from 158 to 220bhp, and top speed improved from 134 to 144mph. In 2001, the range was expanded to include a 3.0-litre version, known as the IS 300. The sporting driver’s seat gave excellent support in corners, handling was sharp, ride well-damped, and equipment levels, on the SE especially, were high.
Lexus jdm build driver#
The driver could make the most of this thanks to its precise-shifting six-speed gearbox.īut it was a charismatic addition in a market sector littered with talented cars. However, it was praised for its individual design – especially inside – where the main instruments were designed to look like an upmarket chronograph watch. Warmly received in the press, it was clearly a driver’s car – as you’d expect from Katayama – and to get the best performance the sweet six-cylinder needed to be revved beyond 4,500rpm. The Lexus IS 200 arrived in the UK in 1999, and was initially available only as a 2.0-litre petrol saloon. It was sold through a chain of dealerships called Toyota Vista Store and it won that year’s Japanese Car of The Year award. When it was launched in Japan in 1998, the first generation IS was known as the Toyota Altezza as Lexus remained exclusively an export brand until July 2005. Chief engineer of the project was Nobuaki Katayama, who had previously worked on the acclaimed, rear-wheel drive AE86 Toyota Corolla before moving on to the company’s Le Mans and rallying programmes.
Lexus jdm build pro#
Engine 2JZ VVT-i block, 1JZ VVTi head Cometic 1.8mm head gasket billet engine girdle CNC Stage 3 port/polish w/dimpling Wiseco 10:1 heavy-duty pistons BC Pro Series rods King Race XP main/rod/thrust bearings ARP head studs, main studs, rod bolts custom CNC oil pump BC 272 cams, 1mm over-sized valves, titanium retainers, valve springs Supertech shimless buckets Ferrea valve stem seals Garrett Gen 2 GTX3584RS T4 divided Future Fabrication twin scroll turbo manifold dual wastegate dump tubes from dual 40mm TurboSmart waste gates, 50mm blow-off valve Suprastore intake manifold Spoolin Performance intercooler piping, 3-to-4-inch down pipe Treadstone Performance 3.Click here to find out more about the Lexus IS Lexus IS history: first generationĭevelopment began in the mid-Nineties.
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