Lexus IS 250C road test
by Stephen Walker
4th April, 2010
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The Lexus IS 250C promptly makes an impression upon the driver. In fact,
it occurs just as soon as you get underway in this stylish coupe/cabriolet. The excessively pleasant driving
characteristics are a joyful interpretation of how a car should 'behave' in this modern day where features abound and
technical aspects reach out to new heights.
Available in three versions, we drive the mid-spec Sports version for this Melbourne based road test. Covering some
508 city and suburban kilometres, each of our three drivers enthusiastically expressed satisfaction with this car.
Performance is more than adequate from the 2.5 litre, 24-valve, DOHC, V6 cylinder engine (153 kW and 252 Nm), which
puts power to the ground via the rear wheels. Transmission is by way of a six-speed automatic (featuring two overdrive
ratios). Fuel consumption is at the higher end of expectations at 9.3 litres per 100 kms (factory figures calculated
on the combined cycle). The Lexus IS 250C uses premium unleaded petrol. The fuel tank capacity is 65 litres. CO2
emissions are quite acceptable for a vehicle of this category at 219 grammes/kilometre (kerb weight: 1,730 kg).
The boot is practical and very useable, offering 205 litres of space (roof down) or 553 litres (roof up).
Standard equipment on the mid-spec Lexus IS 250C Sports includes dual-zone climate control air conditioning, active
cruise control (which can automatically adjust your speed if another car enter 'your space' - such as a car ahead
pulling into your lane - a great feature), trip computer, 6-disc audio system with 8 speakers, 4 way adjustable
steering wheel, parking sensors and a camera for reverse parking assistance, power adjustments for the front seats in
addition to standard lumbar support and heating, leather trim, heated exterior rear view mirrors, 4 x 18" alloy wheels
(steel space saver spare wheel), satellite navigation and six airbags (including two 'knee bags' upfront) amongst a
long list of features.
The interior is, as expected in this 2+2 style vehicle, quite comfortable. Driving the IS 250C is a real treat,
good performance, good driving dynamics (including the ride and handling characteristics) and a pleasant 'demeanour'
makes motoring a pleasure in this comfortable no-top or hard-top vehicle.
Expect to pay around the 'mid-80s' for the mid-spec Lexus IS 250C (excluding, of course, the traditional dealer
delivery fees and the various statutory charges imposed by state and territory governments).
Put simply, the four-seater Lexus IS 250C Sports is one of the nicest cars on the road today! It's a particularly
pleasing car to drive, with relaxed 'road manners' and a superb presentation.
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