Lexus refreshes IS range

Lexus is to announce a host of changes to its IS range at the Frankfurt motor show this week.

These revisions include a new F-Sport package for the IS 250 and 220d, as well as the addition of a limited-slip differential to the high-performance IS-F.

Although the engine and transmission of the IS-F are unchanged, Lexus claims that adding the new differential makes the car two seconds a lap quicker around the Fuji International Speedway, where its test drivers put it through its paces.

The new differential works by sending power to the rear wheel with the most grip, and Lexus says it gives the car much more traction as well as improving its stability in high-speed corners.

Sporty bodykit
If you can't stretch to an IS-F, but want to look like you can, the new F-Sport package is the answer to your prayers.

This is available across the entire IS range and includes an IS-F-style front grille, rear spoiler and exclusive alloys. The seats, steering wheel and IS250's gearlever are similar to the IS F's, too.

New gadgets for the IS range include a new hard disc-based sat-nav system and a choice of three new DAB-ready audio systems, all with USB and MP3 player inputs and Bluetooth connectivity.

The top-spec Mark Levinson audio unit also now offers a 'library' function, which can store up to 10GB of music from CDs onto the sat-nav's hard disc.

Although full prices are yet to be confirmed, the revised cars are available to order now, with the first deliveries expected in December.