There will undoubtedly be a part of this Lexus IS200T review where you think it can’t get much better. Everyone has experienced that one perfect moment, where the stars seem to align. That’s a good way to sum up the Lexus IS200T, that’s designed to do everything well.
The current generation of the Lexus IS was launched in July 2013. We’ve taken a look at this early model before, in our previous Lexus IS200T review. This IS200T had one exception, it didn’t carry the 3.5 liter V6.
2018 Lexus IS200T review
The later IS200T now carries much more of a punch. In fact it now comes equipped with a 2.0L turbo four, lifted from the Lexus NX SUV. For those looking for more displacement, the 3.5L remains dressed as the IS350 F Sport.
This increase in power and performance is really remarkable given the IS200T’s overall fit and build quality. In reality the IS200T doesn’t have much in the way of weakness. The newest part of the IS is the suspension and handling. One of the biggest differences between this and our last Lexus IS200T review is in fact the suspension.
The suspension has been retuned and chassis rigidity enhanced by fitting Yamaha’s patented shock technology. Yamaha’s performance damper is known in motorsports to provide a superior dampening feel with increased feedback.
During our first drive of the 2018 Lexus IS200T, we found the suspension changes welcoming at first.
First Drive – Lexus IS200T review
Over the first section of track we chose, it became clear that this IS could just have the best ride in its class. Although the first increase in rigidity and dampening feedback made the IS200T feel more sporty, it wasn’t at the risk of ride quality.
As we continued to drive the course, the possible became absolute. The turboed IS remains a lot of fun, despite the turbo lag. Shedding some weight from the heavy IS200T could go a long way for the turbocharged version of this Lexus.
Yet that dreaded heft seems to disappear when cornering. Handling remains neutral at the limit, which is extremely reassuring driving the Lexus at speed. During our Lexus IS200T review drive, the IS fought every bump and rut with absolute confidence.
You don’t have to take our word for it either. This Lexus IS200T review showed us that there’s a lot to enjoy with this luxury performance whip. Take the Lexus IS200T for a drive and you’ll find a fun and confidence inspiring drive.
If fact after our Lexus IS200T review drive, we wanted to send Lexus engineers a thank you note. Inside the IS200T’s interior is a masterful cockpit and steering feedback system. The IS200T’s steering is fairly accurate and borders on linear to predictable which is uncommon for the average electric system.
In the end of our Lexus IS200T review time, we’ve found a car that’s happiest when it can willingly comfort you through any track. The Lexus IS200T will comfort you instead of constantly challenge you.
Best in the class? Too far of a reach? We think not. What do you think about our Lexus IS200T review? Leave us a comment below and let us know!
