Lexus Introduces Two New 2002 IS 300 Models

[DVSNCYNIKL]

The luxury carmaker will introduce two new versions of the IS 300 sport sedan for 2002: the versatile IS 300 SportCross wagon and an IS 300 sedan featuring a five-speed manual transmission. Both new IS 300 models will be available in August.

The 2002 IS 300 sedan equipped with the five-speed manual transmission will be treated as a separate model featuring slightly firmer suspension tuning than the automatic model. MSRP for this new variation will be $29,435. With the crisp-shifting five-speed manual transmission, this IS 300 model targets enthusiastic drivers who prefer more control over the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine's broad powerband. The IS 300 engine, also shared with the larger GS 300 performance/luxury sedan, produces 215 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 218 lb-ft of peak torque at 3800 rpm.

Lexus also expects the 2002 IS 300 SportCross to appeal to younger customers, many of whom have small families or need room for outdoor activities, such as mountain biking. The SportCross has the same sporty performance as the sedan and combines a unique, European-influenced design with the bonus of greater utility from a five-door body style. The rear tailgate, split fold-down rear seatback and fold-down front passenger seatback allow the SportCross to carry long or oddly shaped items that might not fit easily in conventional sedans. Because it is based closely on the IS 300 sedan, the IS 300 SportCross avoids some of the typical styling cues that define conventional wagons. With a base MSRP of $32,305, Lexus anticipates selling 5000 SportCross models annually.

The Lexus IS 300 sedan, currently on the market, will remain at the current price of $30,805.

[enzo@af]

I want a 2-door, high performance M3 fighter, dammit!!!!

6 speed, more power, more aggressive stance, and light-weight!

[cracker196]

Any word on what the 0-60 times with the 5-speed will be. I am guessing they are improved, but by how much?

[Jay!]

Lexus says 0 to 60 in 6.8 seconds for the 5 speed. Sportcross'll do it in 7.4. The "E-Shift" sedan reports 7.3.

Still, half a second is half a second.

These numbers all still have the disclaimers that they were achieved with prototype vehicles.

[gang$tarr]

i would like a 5 speed.... i might even take one over my 328ci