Design Optitron gauges are standard on all IS models, as is the Lexus Smart Access entry with push-button start system. A telescoping steering wheel is also standard, with a power version available as an option.

Based on the LF-A supercar’s edgy style, the IS is the second Lexus model to don the company’s new direction in design. More of the same from Lexus is hopefully close behind, as the look retains its sporty, edgy appeal yet adds a swooping line and a dramatic beltline. This new Lexus is much more emotive than past generations. Notably, the stance is wider and the wheelbase is longer than the previous generation IS, and the result is a more aggressive style. More significantly, the new Lexus IS looks like the finished thought that that was the previous IS design – elements such as the grille, tail lights and headlamps seem drawn through to completion, with sharper edges, larger badges and closed shapes.

Those themes are carried on throughout the cabin. Whereas the previous IS was docked points for a generally unfinished and un-Lexus-like interior, the new IS takes the next step toward finishing the thought with touchy-feely surfaces, comfortable seats and – though the test vehicles were pre-production – a level of quality you would expect from Lexus. The only possible exception here is the base IS 250: More in terms of materials and features, sitting inside the IS 250 is a different experience than lounging in the more luxurious IS 350. This seems to be done at least partially by design. Lexus officials say they are attempting to offer a new IS within financial reach of the crowd that put them on the map in the first place: 29-year-old men with just enough money to pretend to be within hailing distance of luxury.

In other words, the guys who like to go fast and impress girls with a cool, upscale nameplate. These guys don’t go for maple trim and leather, really, and are quite happy with finely crafted plastics, close-fitting gaps and soft-touch surfaces. They’ll get plenty of that in the new Lexus IS, no matter which trim they choose, along with typical Lexus simplicity when it comes to the layout of entertainment and environmental controls. Optitron gauges are standard on all IS models, as is the Lexus’ Smart Access entry with push-button start system. A telescoping steering wheel is also standard, with a power version available as an option. The standard stereo, with 194 watts of power and 13 speakers, is enough sound for most people. Just do yourself a favor: Before going with the included system, make the salesperson sit inside an IS with the Mark Levinson setup – 300 watts and 14 speakers – and turn that sucker up, way up.

You won’t be happy with the standard stereo for long.