The Lexus IS250 range gets a nip/tuck with a higher spec level and a new sport model.

But the addition of the IS250 Sport means that the IS250 SE manual falls away, with the IS250 S six-speed automatic and IS250 SE automatic remaining in the range.

Visually the changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary. There's a new front bumper that adds 10mm to the overall length, including a revised grille. The door mirrors are new too, with larger glass sections for improved vision and integrated indicator lamps.

At the rear, there are new combination tail lights, while there are new 17- and 18-inch wheel styles available. The IS250 S also receives 17-inch wheels as standard on the new model, in place of the previous 16-inch rims.

Interior changes are limited to minor adjustments to the tone of interior upholsteries and trims and the shape of switches and graphics on the centre console. All models now feature folding rear headrests for better rearward vision when the back seats are unoccupied.

Attention to performance and handling comes in the form of adjustments to the anti-roll bar, suspension and Electronic Power Steering (EPS). Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) also becomes standard across the IS range. VDIM co-ordinates the operation of the car's ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with the EPS, providing smooth, optimum assistance as the car explores its performance limits.

No change on the engine front. The IS250 continues to be powered by the 2.5-litre quad-cam V6 with Variable Valve Timing - intelligent (VVT-i) and electronic direct fuel injection. Developing 153kW at 6400rpm and 252Nm at 4800rpm, the IS250 is capable of a claimed top speed of 230km/h and a zero to 100km/h time of 8.1 seconds. Combined cycle fuel consumption is 9.1l/100km.

Specification levels on the IS250 S and special equipment IS250 SE include keyless entry with a start/stop button on the dashboard with leather standard on all models. There are one-touch electric windows all-round, electric heated mirrors, dual zone automatic climate control with a pollen filter, eight-way adjustable electric seats with lumbar support, a multi-function steering wheel that is manually adjustable for reach and height, and a six-CD front loader audio system with 13 speakers and an auxiliary wireless drive for an iPod or MP3 player. There is a windscreen de-icer and automatic halogen headlights and remote releases for the fuel flap and boot lid. Cruise control is standard, controlled on the steering column and there is an on-board computer displayed in the instrument binnacle with various functions controlled from the steering wheel.

Over and above the S specification, the SE is trimmed in semi aniline perforated leather and adds Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear with a rear-facing camera, AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) HID headlights with headlight washers and automatic levelling, automatic windscreen wipers with a rain sensor, electrochromatic mirrors, seat heaters and coolers, three seat memories, electric adjustment for the steering wheel, and an electric rear blind.

The sound system is upgraded to a 14-speaker Mark Levinson digital surround sound system and the SE model benefits from the addition of EMV with navigation. This is a 7.0-inch LCD touch-screen system with voice recognition.

Lexus IS250 Sport

The IS250 Sport is recognisable from the rest of the range thanks to its visual enhancements. More important though is the sports suspension package that lowers and stiffens the IS250's set-up. The handling package is further enhanced by the standard fitment of 18-inch wheels shod with 225/40 tyres at the front and 255/40 tyres on the rear.

Fitting of the improved handling promise, the IS250 Sport features aerodynamic body enhancements that include revised front and rear bumpers with complementing side skirts and a rear boot lip spoiler. The interior is characterised by aluminium accents, including sportier pedal treatment and gear knob, while a six-speed paddle shift automatic transmission replaces the gear stick.

The IS250 Sport otherwise shares its appointments specification with the IS250 SE.

Pricing
Lexus IS250 S MT: R370 300
IS250 S AT: R387 600
IS250 SE AT: R457 700
IS250 SPORT: R482 600