The Turbocharged Revolution: Lexus IS Sheds Its Underpowered Past

For years, luxury sedan enthusiasts questioned Lexus's commitment to performance in the competitive compact executive segment. The aging 2.5-liter V6 in the IS 250 struggled to keep pace with turbocharged rivals from Germany, delivering just 204 horsepower in an era where forced induction became the standard. The 2016 model year marked a turning point, as Lexus finally embraced turbocharging technology, retiring the IS 250 in favor of more compelling powertrain options.

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IS 200t: Lexus Embraces Forced Induction

The new IS 200t represents Lexus's most significant engineering shift in the IS lineup's history. Borrowing technology from the NX 200t crossover, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque - a substantial upgrade over the outgoing V6's 204hp and 185 lb-ft.

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Engineering Enhancements

Lexus engineers didn't simply drop the NX's engine into the IS sedan. The longitudinal-mounted powerplant received several modifications:

• Revised intake and exhaust systems for better airflow
• Retuned turbocharger for improved response
• Modified engine mounts for reduced vibration
• 6-horsepower increase over the NX application
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IS 300 AWD: The New Middle Child

Positioned between the IS 200t and performance-oriented IS 350, the new IS 300 AWD serves buyers needing all-weather capability without stepping up to the range-topping model. This variant utilizes a detuned version of the IS 350's 3.5-liter V6, producing 255 horsepower.

Why the Six-Speed?

Unlike the rear-drive IS 200t's advanced eight-speed transmission, all-wheel-drive models retain the six-speed automatic. Lexus engineers cited packaging constraints and the need to maintain reliability with the added weight of AWD systems as primary reasons for this decision.

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Discontinued Models: The End of an Era

The 2016 model year saw several IS variants phased out:

• IS 250 Sedan: The base model's underpowered V6 couldn't compete with turbocharged alternatives
• IS 250C Convertible: The folding hardtop convertible didn't receive updates for 2016
• IS F-Sport Package on IS 250: The performance appearance package only available on V6 models

Interior & Technology Updates

While powertrain changes dominated the 2016 updates, Lexus made several subtle interior improvements:

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• Standalone heated steering wheel: Previously only available in packages
• Premium Plus Package: Adds power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers
• Enform Service Connect: New telematics system for maintenance alerts and vehicle health reports
• Revised center console: Smoother operation for storage compartment and cupholders

How the Competition Stacks Up

The turbocharged Lexus IS finally competes on paper with German rivals:

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Driving Dynamics & Real-World Performance

While specifications tell part of the story, the IS 200t's real-world behavior reveals Lexus's engineering priorities:

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Strengths

• Smooth power delivery: The turbocharger's boost comes on linearly without abrupt surges
• Refined cabin: Excellent noise isolation compared to German rivals
• Transmission tuning: The eight-speed automatic shifts imperceptibly in normal driving

Compromises

• Sport mode aggression: Doesn't transform the car as dramatically as BMW's Sport+ mode
• Steering feel: Still lighter and less communicative than European competitors
• Turbo lag: Noticeable delay when accelerating from low RPMs
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Ownership Experience & Long-Term Value

Lexus's reputation for reliability and lower cost of ownership remains intact with the 2016 updates:

• Warranty coverage: 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty leads the segment
• Maintenance costs: Turbocharged engine requires premium fuel but maintains Lexus's service intervals
• Resale value: Historically strong residual values continue with new powertrains
• Dealer experience: Lexus dealerships consistently rank highest in customer satisfaction surveys
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The Future of Lexus Performance

The 2016 IS lineup changes signaled Lexus's commitment to modern powertrain technology. This shift previewed broader applications of turbocharging across the lineup, including:

• Expansion of turbo four-cylinder engines to other models
• Development of hybrid turbo systems combining electric motors with forced induction
• Gradual phase-out of naturally aspirated V6 engines in midsize vehicles
• Increased focus on weight reduction to complement powertrain improvements
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For buyers considering a used luxury sedan, the 2016 Lexus IS represents a compelling value proposition - offering near-German performance with Japanese reliability and lower running costs. The introduction of turbocharging finally addressed the IS lineup's most significant criticism while maintaining the brand's core values of refinement and quality.