SPIED! Spy Shots: 2014 Lexus IS

[h=1]Next-gen Lexus IS mule caught circulating[/h]
The last two images are likely the front fascia of the third-generation IS (XE30) utilizing the corporate "spindle grille". Seems evolutionary. Surprised to not really have seen these around the web as most automakers don't tease vehicles this early.

[h=3]SCOOP: Lexus Begins Work on 2014 IS Sedan with Test Mule[/h]

After the LFA, the GT86 and the GS, the next generation IS may be the 3 Series toughest rival in terms of driving experience. The M4's greatest threat may be the next generation IS-F, evenmoreso if it come as coupé and even retains a NA engine. Looking forward. The first generation IS was my favorite. I hope this new one will be as sporty, with a good looking and agressive exterior desing and a more simple and functinal yet modern interior design.

It's a shame that this will feature their new corporate grill as I find it to be truly hideous.

Always liked that the IS kept to the basics, and good basics (for the petrol model): 2.5L V6, the creamiest of Toyota engines, decent power and torque, a great gearbox and a nice interior. This is unlike the mass market 3ers or Cs which make do with a four pot. It could do with more rear space and boot space though. Have something with hybrid tech, plus something genuinely fun to drive and I think this car might find a lot of buyers. Where I live Lexus cars are always priced cheaper than the Germans.

It seems that the first of the last two pictures is an amalgamation of the GS predator grille and the upcoming IS. Here are more correct ones. Not really much a difference though as it only showcases the grille a little better.

It's an underrated car. I've driven it on two occasions and it's not that bad with the exception of the headroom in the back. Given how praised the FT86 is I hope that the new IS will follow suit with driving characteristics that awe. For Lexus to penetrate the European market they need a strong small sedan to compete in a rather pressed segment. The F30 is great, the C-Class is good, the A4 has winning reviews and the Volvo S60 is the sportiest Volvo yet.

Sexy!!

CT concept front plus current IS body, and presto! You got one lazy render.

2014 ISC-F convertible
The 2014 Lexus IS convertible has now entered the European testing rounds as an F performance variant already a year after it's design freeze. The IS-F convertible test mule actually might not even be a convertible, but possibly a coupe utilizing the only current Lexus 2-door body(besides the bespoke LFA). I'm probably wrong about that last part anyway.

It actually looks better than the sedan with the short decklid. I am wondering why they would create a convertible IS-F near the end of its life cycle?? They are going to show the new IS fairly soon.

I wonder if this is a test mule of the next generation IS-F.

Really, this late in the IS' life? This would be a hot car if it weren't really ugly top/styling/compromise at the back. Its terrible and 420hp isn't going to fix it.


M

Lexus is getting more and more serious. It could be the next "M". Wonder if they'll keep the NA engine on the next generation IS-F.

Yes, Lexus will be staying N/A. I believe they will stay away from turboes as much as possible. The next IS-F is rumored to have a 460 HP N/A engine.

Well, there we go, I finally can give proper props to a Lexus. N/A engines in a world where everybody's going TT. Gives them a distinction and identity that they very much need.

Depends for whom. The M3 crowd has changed. With every new generation they are whining, first because it went from I4 to I6, the from I6 to V8, now from NA to FI, but once the car is out, for them it is the best car in the world. Now they prefere a NA V8 over a FI I6, later they'll prefere a FI I6 over a NA V8, becasue its a "Lexus".

More images from Carscoop
Lexus Trying Out IS-F Convertible at the Nürburgring

2 more Lexus IS-F are joined by the typical blue test Toyota Supra used as a pace car

Very very interesting. While others are busy with borings green projects, Toyota is cooking a range of perforamnce cars. Now I have to find a way to fill my garage with them.

mmmmm, supra.