The New 2021 Lexus IS - What's new, what isn't, and what's next?

After endless leaks the 2021 Lexus IS is finally here and it is everything we already knew. The New 2021 Lexus IS is not ALL new and instead uses a heavily re-engineered N-platform as the current IS uses. This means a stiffer and sportier ride. Inside is a bit underwhelming as the general design is the same as before. Though look closely and you can spot all the changes. Lexus has redone the center console to add the track pack interface and shifted buttons around.

Not that you’ll notice many of those changes at first glance. That said, that may not be a bad thing in your eyes as the IS at least tries to look distinctive and athletic. The large spindle grille remains, while the daytime running lights have been integrated into the headlights this time. Look around back, though, and the taillights get a unique design from the old car

While it’s also subtle, the 2021 Lexus IS has grown in nearly every aspect apart from the wheelbase. The new model is 1.2 inches longer and wider than the outgoing model (at 185.2 and 72.4 inches, respectively). It’s also just 5 millimeters (or 0.2 inches) taller, at 56.5 inches.

The New 2021 Lexus IS - Interior thoughtful touches & Security

At first glance, the interior looks almost like the outgoing 2020 model. However, Lexus has made some ergonomic adjustments, particularly with the infotainment system. The new model now has its 8.0-inch standard touchscreen (or optional 10.3-inch unit) perched above the dashboard instead of being buried inside it. Lexus also relocated the screen three inches closer to the driver, to make the "touch" part of the screen easier and more efficient. The old mouse control is shifted, too, for the brand's current touchpad system.

The new infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, in line with their modern counterparts like the larger ES sedan. Standard, the 2021 Lexus IS has a 15-speaker, 835-watt sound system, but you can upgrade to an optional 17-speaker, 1,800-watt Mark Levinson system if that's not enough audio power for you. All this will be possible to get from Ice Auto Group for an affordable car lease deal.

Lexus' new Safety System+ 2.5 is making its way into the new IS, complete with more sophisticated driver assistance technology than the outgoing car. Its radar and camera capabilities have improved, enabling the automatic emergency braking system to detect both cyclists and pedestrians in daytime and low-light conditions. The suite also still includes dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and lane tracking assistance. The safety features of the 2021 Lexus IS round off blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and rear cross-traffic alerts.

The New 2021 Lexus IS - Pricing

Lexus says the IS will go on sale this fall, but no pricing has yet been announced. A slight price increase over the 2020 model is possible, which would make the IS 300 RWD start at just around $40,000. Expect the top-of-the-line IS 350 F Sport to be close to $55,000. All this will be available for an affordable car lease deal from Ice Auto Group.