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Lexus IS250
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In a tightly contested category, the Lexus IS250 took the gong for the depth and consistency of its ratings across the criteria. This category was one of the most closely-fought and required some deep soul-searching and robust late-night discussion to see a clear winner emerge. But it did, and the newest Lexus sedan just pipped last year's victor, the Subaru, with better marks for fuel consumption, warranty, security, environment and build quality. It also picked up on ride and smoothness/quietness - always a Lexus strength. Buyers in the Prestige category expect a certain level of refinement and luxury accoutrements and, in the Lexus tradition, the IS250 doesn't disappoint. You'd expect power windows and mirrors, climate control, air-con and cruise control, but the 13-speaker sound system, power-operated, foldaway exterior mirrors and keyless entry/ignition are bonuses. The latter lets you keep the key in your pocket or handbag, using a dash-mounted button to stop and start the car. Sure to impress passengers! They might also be impressed by the considerable safety features with eight airbags (including side curtains in the rear and one for driver knee protection), traction and stability controls, ABS, and brake force distribution. The interior design is elegant and tasteful, earning a good ergonomic score and general approval for the groovy, so-called 'light sabre' instrument illumination. If you're inclined to open the wallet wider, you can go up-market and get some really nifty gear by optioning-up or, more simply, by going for either the Sports or Sports Luxury models. These offer goodies such as a Mark Levinson sound system, sonar parking assistance, rear camera and adaptable cruise control, plus the best touch-screen controls and satellite navigation system on the market. The IS250 was by no means the highest scorer across the performance criteria, but the 2.5-litre DOHC V6 - all-new, lighter and more advanced than the in-line two- and three-litre sixes used in previous models - is among the most refined and eco-friendly of the engines available in this segment. Dual VVTi (Toyota and Lexus are still the acronym kings) means variable valve timing on both inlet and exhaust for improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions (hence the good environmental score). Peak power and torque (153 kW @ 6400rpm and 252 Nm @ 4800rpm) arrive fairly late in the rev range, so for best results, it's best to employ the fully manual sequential mode in the excellent Aisin six-speed auto. If you are so inclined, you can use the paddle shifts. Lexus/Toyota always go to some lengths to achieve the best possible suspension tune for local conditions and they've done well with this car, producing a relatively supple ride without compromising the handling package. There were some very impressive and desirable new entrants in the category this year, but the depth and consistency of the new IS250 across all 19 criteria - the critical ones especially - gave the new Lexus a deserved victory.
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