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The Lexus IS 300 is a driving machine that can match
any compact 4-door sports sedan. Superb engine,
fine handling, impeccable build quality distinguish
this car. 6-cylinder inline engine, rear drive.
Prices: US $29,980, $31,350 as tested. For the 2009
Lexus IS 300 handles just like that Bavarian icon
it hopes to match. The IS 300 comes in two flavors,
a 4-door sedan and a European-style 5-door wagon
called the SportCross, which is not only the most
useable of the two, but better-looking to boot.
It is not particularly distinctive. With 225 hp
on tap, this 3-liter unit, derived from the last
of the Supras, launches the 2009 Lexus IS 300 to
60 mph from a dead stop in seven seconds. Torque
flow is steady from the moment you tickle the
throttle right up to the top of the rev range; there
are no distracting hot spots. Providing that you
cant have too much of a good thing, Lexus offers
three distinct versions of the IS 300.
No matter what you are looking for, there's an IS
300 that is perfect for you. The 2009 IS 300 is
a 4-door, 5-passenger sports sedan, or luxury wagon,
available in 3 trims, ranging from the 5-Speed Sedan
to the SportCross. The 2009 IS 300's closest competitors
include the Acura TSX, the Mitsubishi Diamante,
and the Volvo XC70. IS 300 SportCross is a 4-Door,
rear wheel drive luxury wagon with seating for 5.
It comes standard with a 5 speed automatic transmission
and a 3.0L I6, 24-Valve, DOHC, SEFI engine with
a horsepower rating of 215@5800 and a torque rating
of 218@3800. It has an EPA fuel economy rating of
18 city/24 highway miles per gallon. All models
equipped with a manual transmission go one step
further and incorporate a Euro-tuned suspension
ensuring that the car feels as good as it looks.
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