Lexus IS 220d SE-I

Jul 4 2009 Robin Roberts

LEXUS has built an enviable reputation for the brand but it sometimes seems to lag behind what the market wants.

With the introduction of the IS 220 diesel it has taken a major step forward in addressing any shortcomings where rivals supplied a model to which Lexus had no competitor.

The longer term, high mileage benefits of diesel are well known but you have to be certain you are going to make the right choice between diesel and petrol.

Now, Lexus has just made that choice harder with this rival to the likes of the BMW 3 Series and the Audi A4.

The Lexus IS 220D is a very refined, smooth, good performing model which exudes executive luxury and has instant showroom appeal and long lasting satisfaction with ownership.

The engine is an instant starter and it pulls well but I did find myself having to change gear fairly swiftly as the revs rose and it proved very long legged on main roads and economical overall.

I found it was not particularly flexible, however, struggling at times to run it in sixth or even fifth gear at moderate road speed. The top gear was not much use below 60mph and even at 50mph it was lumpy in fifth.

Thankfully, the gearchange has a good clutch weight and progressive feel and it moves without obstruction across and through the gate.

Excellent balance to the brakes and a lot of feedback through the steering wheel reinforce the sensation of refinement while delivering strong dynamic satisfaction as well.

The secondary controls are close to hand and the console switches are big and well marked while the instruments are grouped directly infront of the driver and easy to read quickly.

The central console display includes the controls for heating and ventilation and it is very quick responding, has a wide range of temperature and is backed up by cooled and heated front seats.

Oddments space is good in the front with a large glovebox, big door bins, twin seat-back pockets and small trays or compartments on the console. A deep rear window shelf covers the boot space and there is a ski-hatch facility in the rear.

Opening the boot from bumper level provides a wide, short and reasonably deep luggage area.

For the driver and passengers the room inside is very good, with plenty of seat adjustment infront and deeply padded cushions and squabs to support the body.

Ride quality is very smooth over all surfaces and it does not wallow or roll to upset occupants while it holds on very securely to the road to give the driver a lot of confidence. The handling is responsive and reassuring.

This car came with a rear mounted camera for parking and the system has a series of green lines and grids to help precisely and safely position the car when reversing. Visibility to the front is very good and helped by good wipers and very bright lights.

Only very slight road noise intruded because the Lexus is quiet and never sounds as if it is under strain.

By contrast it shows vibration through the gearlever, the seats and column which detract from the overall refinement of the car but it is a very good all rounder with far more going for it rather than against it.

It is also a creditable competitor to longer established rivals which cannot touch its luxury at this price and today value for money has never been keener or the Lexus IS220D more relevant.

FAST FACTS

Lexus IS 220d SE-I 4dr

Price: £24,860

Mechanical: 175bhp 2,231cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving rear wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 135mph

0-62mph; 8.9 seconds

Combined mpg: 50.4

Insurance group: 13

CO2 emissions: 148g/km

BIK rating: 20%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles