What is Lexus is300 called in Japan?
The Lexus IS300, a popular sporty sedan from Toyota's luxury division, is known by a different name in its home market of Japan. In Japan, this sleek and powerful vehicle is called the Toyota Altezza, a name that has become synonymous with the model's distinctive styling and performance-oriented character.
The Toyota Altezza: Lexus IS300's Japanese Counterpart
The Toyota Altezza, introduced in 1998, was the Japanese-market version of the Lexus IS300 that was launched in the United States and other global markets a year later. The Altezza and IS300 shared the same underlying platform and mechanical components, but the Altezza featured unique styling cues and branding to cater to the preferences of the Japanese domestic market.
The Altezza's name was derived from the Italian word "altezza," meaning "height" or "highness," reflecting the vehicle's sporty and premium positioning within Toyota's lineup. This naming choice was a departure from the more conventional naming conventions used for other Toyota models in Japan, further emphasizing the Altezza's aspirational nature.
Key Differences Between the Altezza and IS300
While the Altezza and IS300 were essentially the same vehicle, there were a few notable differences between the two models:
- Styling: The Altezza featured a more angular and aggressive front-end design, with a distinctive grille and headlight arrangement that set it apart from the IS300.
- Branding: The Altezza wore Toyota's branding and badging, while the IS300 carried the Lexus name and logo, reflecting the model's positioning as a luxury vehicle in international markets.
- Engine Options: The Altezza was available with a range of engine options, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-six, while the IS300 was primarily offered with a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six in the United States.
Despite these differences, the Altezza and IS300 shared a common DNA, offering drivers a thrilling and engaging driving experience with their balanced chassis, responsive handling, and powerful engines.
The Enduring Legacy of the Altezza/IS300
The Altezza/IS300 has become a beloved and iconic model in the automotive enthusiast community, known for its timeless design, impressive performance, and the loyal following it has amassed over the years. The model's popularity has endured, with enthusiasts often seeking out and modifying these vehicles to extract even more performance and style.
Whether you know it as the Lexus IS300 or the Toyota Altezza, this sporty sedan has left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape, captivating drivers around the world with its blend of style, performance, and driving enjoyment.
