Why did Lexus discontinue IS?
The Lexus IS has been a staple in the luxury compact sedan market since its introduction in 1998. However, recent announcements have confirmed that Lexus will discontinue the IS model. This decision has sparked discussions among automotive enthusiasts and industry experts alike. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this significant move by Lexus.
Changing Market Dynamics
One of the primary reasons for discontinuing the IS is the shifting landscape of the automotive market. Consumer preferences have evolved, with a noticeable trend towards SUVs and crossovers. As buyers increasingly favor larger vehicles, luxury brands, including Lexus, have had to adapt their offerings to meet this demand.
Declining Sales
Sales figures for the IS have been on a downward trajectory in recent years. The compact luxury sedan segment has seen a decline as more consumers opt for SUVs. This shift has made it challenging for the IS to maintain its market share, prompting Lexus to reconsider its lineup.
Focus on Electrification
Lexus is also pivoting towards electrification, with plans to expand its lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles. By discontinuing the IS, Lexus can allocate resources and development efforts towards more sustainable models that align with the future of the automotive industry.
Strategic Realignment
Discontinuing the IS allows Lexus to streamline its offerings and focus on models that are more profitable and in demand. This strategic realignment is essential for maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly changing market.
Conclusion
While the discontinuation of the Lexus IS marks the end of an era for this beloved model, it reflects broader trends in the automotive industry. As consumer preferences shift and manufacturers adapt to new technologies, Lexus is positioning itself for future success by focusing on electrification and more popular vehicle segments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a 2024 Lexus IS?
Lexus makes the F Sport trim more widely available on the IS for 2024. For the first time, the base four-cylinder IS300 can be had as an F Sport. Or, for those who are mostly interested in sporty looks, the F Sport Design trim level skips the mechanical upgrades but keeps the appearance enhancements.
What year Lexus is to stay away from?
Lexus IS250 (2007-2012)
First up on the list is the second-generation IS250, which has earned a reputation as the Lexus model to absolutely avoid. The release of the IS250 saw a transition from a multi-point fuel injection system in the engine to a direct injection system instead.
Why did Lexus discontinue the IS?
The Lexus IS will be culled from the brand's lineup due to intractable challenges with ADR rules. Clearly, the cost of design changes just for Australia wasn't deemed practical, with focus better placed on Lexus' next-generation products.
IS the Lexus IS350 expensive to maintain?
Maintaining a Lexus IS 350 will cost $386 per year on average through the first 5 years of new ownership. Costs and probability of repair increase over time.
Will Lexus bring out a new IS?
Now, according to Japan's new car authority Best Car magazine, the fourth generation IS will comeback as a fully electric sedan and launch in 2026. In fact, we got to see a concept model of the all-new IS at the Japan Mobility Show last October in the shape of the Lexus LF-ZC concept.
How much will the 2024 Lexus cost?
The price of the 2024 Lexus TX starts at $55,050 and goes up to $60,950 depending on the trim and options. We'd recommend the TX350 Luxury, as it adds desirable upscale features such as semi-aniline leather upholstery, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated second-row seats.
Are new Lexus still reliable?
Lexus, Toyota's upscale sub-brand, is among the few luxury automakers that successfully merges technologically-advanced designs with consistently great reliability. Interiors are quiet and finished with finely-crafted materials. The engines are generally smooth and powerful.
Is a Lexus just a fancy Toyota?
Lexus vehicles are the Toyota luxury brand – the same parent company owns the two automakers, and Toyota and Lexus vehicles share some components. The Lexus manufacturer is based in Japan, though their largest target market is the U.S.
What is the biggest problem with Lexus?
What Is the Biggest Problem with Lexus? While Lexus vehicles are renowned for their reliability, they are not perfect. The most significant problem across Lexus models is oil leakage from the timing chain cover. This issue affects multiple model years, particularly those produced between 2007 and 2015.
Will there be a 2025 Lexus IS?
The price of the 2025 Lexus IS starts at $41,335 and goes up to $64,820 depending on the trim and options. We have an affection for the high-performance IS500 model with its sonorous V-8 engine, but most shoppers will be best served by the six-cylinder IS350, which is more rewarding to drive than the base IS300.
