2006 Lexus IS 350 Review (continued)
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Summary

The all-new Lexus IS models are a quantum leap forward for the Lexus brand in terms of cutting-edge style and higher levels of performance. But BMW still has an edge when it comes to claiming itself the ultimate driving machine.

New Car Test Drive correspondent Greg N. Brown filed this report from Southern California.

(Source: New Cars Test Drive)

Model Line Overview

Model Lineup:	Lexus IS 250 6-speed manual ($29,990); IS 250 six-speed automatic ($31,160); IS 250 AWD ($34,285); IS 350 ($35,440)
Engines:	3.5-liter dohc V6
Transmissions:	6-speed automatic w paddle shift
Saftey Equipment (standard):	dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, three-point belts for all five seats, automatic locking retractor for all positions except driver, who gets emergency locking retractor, ABS with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, traction control, Vehicle Stability Control
Saftey Equipment (optional):	Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management
Basic Warranty:	4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled In:	Tahara and Kyushu, Japan

Specifications As Tested

Model Tested (MSRP):	Lexus IS 350 ($35,440)
Standard Equipment:	tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power windows with auto up/down and jam protection; power door locks with anti lock-out; speed-sensitive, shift-linked automatic door lock/unlock; auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass; cruise control; Homelink; door courtesy lights and various ambient, map and dome lighting features; pass-through to the trunk; dual-zone electronic climate control with pollen/dust filter; keyless entry and pushbutton ignition; front fog lights; power heated exterior mirrors with memory; power windows; theft deterrent system with engine immobilizer; puddle lamps on outside rearview mirrors; electronic digital quartz clock; exterior temperature gauge
Options As Tested (MSRP):	none
Destination Charge:	650
Gas Guzzler Tax:
Price As Tested (MSRP):	36090
Layout:	rear-wheel drive
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):	306 @ 6400
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):	277 @ 4800
Transmission:	6-speed automatic w paddle shift
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
Wheelbase:	107.5
Length/width/height:	180.1/70.9/56.1
Track, f/r:	60.4/60.4
Turning circle:	38.7
Seating capacity:	5
Head/hip/leg room, f:	39.0/54.1/43.9
Head/hip/leg room, m:
Head/hip/leg room, r:	36.9/53.7/30.6
Cargo volume:	13.0
Payload:
Towing capacity:
Suspension, f:	independent
Suspension, r:	independent
Ground clearance:
Curb weight:	3527
Tires:	225/40YR18 front, 255/40YR18 rear
Brakes, f/r:	disc/disc with ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake Force Distribution
Fuel capacity:	17.7