Lexus IS to be Powered by a New Turbocharged Engine

Kuala Lumpur: Lexus launched their first turbocharged engine last year which was first used in the NX model as a 2-litre engine dubbed as '8AR-FTS'. This engine is now available in Malaysia with the IS sports sedan which is available in four variants namely IS 200t Premium, IS 200t Luxury, IS 200t F SPORT and IS 300h Hybrid.

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Lexus engineers have started producing this engine from the scratch to get its first-ever turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine. It is designed with a combination of direct fuel injection system and additional port fuel injectors which have been used on some other Lexus models too. This combination provides responsiveness and abundant power at all engine speeds. The cylinders are paired according to their expansion or compression stroke which, as a result, reduces pumping losses and removes exhaust gas interference. It also delivers an improved acceleration response and wide torque band. Hence, it churns out a maximum power of 241 bhp along with a peak torque of 350 Nm. As compared to previous engines, there is a 17.6% increase in power and 38.9% increase in torque.

Further, it is assisted with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-iW) which optimizes torque and makes it run in a more fuel efficient Atkinson cycle. Moreover, it reduces pumping losses and boosts fuel economy. The engine is also integrated with an idle stop function which reduces fuel consumption during long idle periods and special programming provides quick engine start. Further, it is mated to an 8-speed Sports Direct Shift automatic transmission which was originally developed for the powerful IS F variant. It is a low weight gearbox which weighs only 96.3 kgs and yet delivers a high torque. It is also integrated with a lock-up clutch that creates a direct mechanical link between the engine and transmission.

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Apart from a new turbocharged engine, the latest IS range would also include a 10 airbag mechanism, blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert for the Luxury, F SPORT and Hybrid variants. In addition, Lexus Malaysia also provides an 8-year battery assurance programme for hybrid variant along with a warranty of 3 years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first.

Below you can find the prices for the new Lexus IS:

IS 200t Premium	IS 200t Luxury	IS 200t F SPORT	IS 300h Hybrid
RM298,000	RM350,000	RM385,000	RM452,000