2009 Lexus IS Uncovered

It may be an elaborate hoax, but My.IS member nyjinwoo has uncovered what looks to be a brochure for the 2009 Lexus IS 250/350. First thing, here’s an overview of the exterior changes:

The front grille has been given the same extended chrome border and integrated turn signals that were included in last year’s refreshed GS. The revised rear lights have also been changed, though the differences are subtle unless compared with the current design:


The most obvious change is the L-Shaped clear accents in the lower corners, though it also looks as though the rear lights are protruding somewhat. This was something I noticed when looking at the convertible spy shots seen some months back.
Interior shots were also included, and the only change I can see is the wood steering wheel:


If accurate, these changes certainly increase the edginess of the IS (I’m particularly impressed with the chunky rear light treatment), but will it be enough to carry the model through its final three years of production?

August 14th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Very interesting! The chrome trim to the center console is reminiscent of that on the GS.
August 15th, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Yeah, and now with two models sharing the same facelift, I imagine this reworking is going to be applied to all the other models as well.
August 15th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Yeah. Lexus.com has already updated the SC to 09. And the SC has the same integrated turn signals as the refreshed GS too. Also, if you look closely at the RX prototype, the side mirrors has the shape of the design crafted in it.
August 17th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Anon: Good eye!
August 25th, 2008 at 10:21 am
I have an SC430 now, but would like to drive a Lexus convertible year round here in Wisconsin…thus I am hoping that the Lexus IS Convertible will have an all wheel drive option.
August 25th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
@Bob: In terms of drivetrains, I imagine the convertible/coupe options would mirror the current IS offerings. (AWD available on the IS 250C, for instance.)
October 9th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
Also @ Bob: everything I’ve seen and heard from those above me (I work at a Lexus store) says that there will be RWD and AWD models of the IS250 C
October 25th, 2008 at 5:10 am
You guys have good eyes! I almost didn’t notice that until Anonymous pointed it out. But yeah, I agree that the IS’ design is similar to that of the GS.
November 13th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Lexus 2009 is a beautiful car. Probably one of my favorite car that will be release next year.