LEXUS Launches The LEXUS IS 250 In Malaysia – LEXUS fortifies its presence in the Malaysian luxury car market with the introduction of a new model.
Lexus, the best selling luxury marque in North America, launched the smallest model in its fleet of luxury vehicles, the IS 250, in Malaysia today. The Lexus IS 250 is now in its second generation and is the fourth Lexus model to be launched in Malaysia. Well on its way to achieving its sales target for 2007, Lexus has already started to create a noticeable presence in the luxury automotive segment in Malaysia. The launch of the Lexus IS 250 takes the brand a step closer to establishing Lexus’ brand presence in the luxury segment.
“We are confident that the Lexus brand will continue to grow exponentially in this market, and with the introduction of the Lexus IS 250, the Lexus badge will make an impactful entry into the premium compact sedan segment. This is a much anticipated car, and it is from the Lexus line-up of compact sedans that reaches out to a younger generation of affluent trend-setting buyers,” said Dato’ David Chen, Managing Director of Lexus Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd.
The multi award winning Lexus IS 250 has been internationally acclaimed by industry experts for its refined design elements, and its superior performance, comfort and safety features. The model received a top ranking for entry luxury class vehicles by J.D. Power and Associates in its 2006 Initial Quality Survey. It was also awarded the Best New Technology award in 2006 at the Canadian Car of the Year Awards, and Best Prestige Car 2006 at ‘Australia’s Best Car Awards’ in the same year. Most recently the Lexus IS 250 received one of the most prestigious and authoritative automotive awards in Germany, the Goldenes Lenkrad, for the middle to upper class range in 2007.
The vehicle sports a new DOHC 24-valve 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine, 205 horsepower and delivers a class-leading 252 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm. This gives the engine the ability to reach 100 km/h from standstill in 8.4 seconds and hit a maximum speed of 225 km/h. It comes equipped with a 6-speed sequential Automatic Transmission identical to Formula 1 cars. The Lexus IS 250’s entirely new front and rear suspension system is designed to optimize dynamic wheel alignment to help provide precise, confident handling and maximum tyre grip. To ensure maximum transmission of power to the tarmac and also optimum grip, the Lexus IS 250 is fitted with wider tyres on the rear wheels. Though its 4575 mm length is relatively compact, the Lexus IS 250 is easy to manoeuvre and has a turning radius of just 5.1 metres.
These exceptional levels of performance are matched by equally exceptional levels of safety. The Lexus IS 250 incorporates features such as Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) which ensures that braking forces to each individual wheel are optimised, and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) which further enhances the stability of the car during cornering by computer-controlled action on both the brakes as well as engine power. SRS (Supplementary Restraint System) airbags are provided for both the driver and front occupant. The driver’s airbag is designed to inflate at one of three different speeds depending on conditions at the time of the collision. Airbags are also provided at knee level to give additional protection.
The Lexus IS 250 has been designed with premium luxury in mind. As with all Lexus vehicles, the Lexus IS 250 encompasses L-Finesse, the Japanese aesthetic philosophy that creates a new dynamism based on the visual contrast between simplicity and elegance. From seats to climate control to the Mark Levinson sound system, the finest details have been considered for the driver’s maximum comfort. Highlights of the exterior are the bright HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlamps in the twin-barrel lighting units. Inside, the vehicle combines a number of Japanese concepts to create a refined and elegant finish. Focused LED illumination to front and rear map reading lights, front passenger footwell and gear lever puddle lighting make the car a superb after dark vehicle. The version offered by Lexus Malaysia includes unique, blue LED illumination to the stainless steel front door scuff plates.
Buyers of this exceptional car in Malaysia will experience the unparalleled customer service and after sales support that Lexus is consistently recognised for. The Lexus IS 250 retails at RM 305,000 OTR without insurance and will be available at the Lexus Centre Mutiara Damansara from 22nd September 2007.
Jom komen!