Japan’s favourite luxury export pushes all the right buttons with its “entry-level” IS250. Sleek, dynamic lines in a compact form means it has a sportier look compared to its larger GS300 sibling.
In true-blue premium fashion, the Lexus offers a “keyless” access and ignition system. Which means the transponder key can be left in your pocket or handbag.
The only bugbear is the fact that the proximity sensor doesn’t extend to the other doors apart from the driver’s. So once the driver unlocks his door by grabbing the handle, a master unlock button in the door control cluster has to be hit for passengers to enter. On the flip side, this is a security feature that deters car-jacking.
At first glance, the Lexus’ centre console may seem like a jumble of buttons and knobs. However, as with many things Japanese, there is some method to this madness, and the different sections controlling hi-fi and climate control prove logical and intuitive to use.
The brand displays an adventurous streak with its console styling. The IS250 boasts the coolest-looking instrument meters, but the quality of materials used could be improved upon when compared with what you find in an Audi or BMW.
Despite not having the premium Mark Levinson hi-fi, the test-car’s factory-fitted sound system delivers the goods with aplomb.
Equipped with paddle shifters, the IS250 gives the enthusiast a chance to let his hair down and really concentrate on driving, rather than having to remove one hand from the helm to work the gearlever.
That said, the electric throttle system takes some time to react to prods of the gas pedal.
In low-speed manoeuvres, the featherweight steering makes effortless work of parking and three-point turns. Driven in anger, the steering, although direct, lets enthusiastic drivers down by its lack of “heft”.
The Lexus is otherwise nimble and light on its feet. Even with the throttle delay, take-offs are immediate. The suspension has been engineered to offer the best balance between normal trundling around town and spirited driving. Firm yet pliant, the chassis should please both hard drivers and their more sensitive passengers.
In other markets, a 306hp IS350 is available for those who demand more performance with the cushy ride. 

