Introduced in 1998, the first-generation Lexus IS (codenamed XE10) is practically identical to that of the Toyota Altezza, which was only sold in Japan. The XE10 establishes itself in the D segment as a medium-sized sports car (4,48 x 1,72 meters) and proposes itself as an alternative to the German BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes C-Class, and the compatriot Honda Accord. The setting of the XE10 is decidedly aggressive, and the design has real distinctive elements, such as the small rear tail and the triangular headlights: the interior is simple, but in step with the times: starting from 2000, it is also possible to have a satellite navigator as an option; as for the roominess, the rear passengers doesn’t have much space. The XE10 debuts with a single 155HP and 195NM engine called “200”; in 2001, four years after the end of production, the new “300” engine replaces the 200. This engine has a power of 217HP and a torque of 295NM. Both engines have an in-line six-cylinder configuration and are combined with rear-wheel drive. One of the most commendable aspects of the IS is certainly safety: in the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety) crash tests, the XE10 achieves the maximum score of five stars.
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📷 @almost.phamous
🔑 @2jz._.mando
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🏎️ Lexus IS I XE10
📍 Japan
🛠️ “200” six-cylinder in-Line 195NM 155HP
💨 9,5 seconds
🔝 215km/h
💶 No longer on sale
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Our vote: ⭐⭐⭐⭐️ (4/5)