- Lexus (Toyota's luxury subsidiary) introduced the third generation of the IS, which will be marketed in 2013. The previous model dated back from 2005. It had a rather discreet career .

- It is to be noted that the IS model is a segment D sedan. It competes directly with the  segment D Premium cars:  BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class and Volvo S60.

- The exterior styling of the new Lexus IS has an aggressive appearance (grille, taillights) and its line highlights a certain sportiness, probably to get closer to the style of the BMW 3 Series, its direct competitor .

- The new Lexus will showcase a new hybrid (gasoline-electric) engine missing so far on this model. In 2013, the entire Lexus range vehicles will be available equipped with hybrid engines: from the CT to the RX  including therefore the IS, GS and LS.