Lexus must be hoping diesel discontent encourages more people to look to hybrids. Motoring editor Andy Russell drives the new, improved IS 300h saloon.
Every cloud has a silver lining and the 'dirty diesels' dilemma is going to make motorists question whether they want, or need, a diesel and look at alternatives.
Much cleaner, modern diesels still have a vital role for high-milers but a efficient, small-capacity, turbo petrol engines are catching up fast for economy and emissions while hybrids, combining an engine and electric motor, are now acceptably mainstream.
It's great news for Lexus and Toyota, pioneers of hybrid technology, and you have to applaud their tenacity and unerring belief that one day the world would wake up to nitrogen oxides (NOx) – the big criticism of old diesels but a big selling point for petrol electric hybrids – and not just carbon dioxide (CO2).
And it's now well placed to take advantage of the hybrid revolution by constantly advancing its technology and evolving its range with the IS compact executive saloon the latest to be updated.
So what's new?
The third-generation IS was still a looker and the evolutionary facelift sees a sportier front end with revised trademark spindle-shaped grille, new bonnet and LED headlamps, larger air intakes, a stronger character line along the car and new triple layer, L-shaped, LED back lights.
Inside, technology and sensory quality have been improved and suspension tweaked to make it more rewarding to drive and ride in.
Under the bonnet
Hybrid is the real deal for IS appeal with the 300h's 2.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor in every trim while the 2.0-litre turbo petrol 200t is top two trims only.
Like so many hybrids, the IS 300h is something of a Jekyll and Hyde character – ultra refined and smooth in urban traffic, running short distances on battery power up to 40mph and quiet when the engine automatically cuts in.
But, with CVT automatic transmission, a big prod of throttle sees a raucous roar of revs so I preferred to use the steering wheel paddle shifters wheel to change through simulated gears manually.
It still doesn't feel like a 220bhp car but the IS 300h is more about eco than excitement, refinement rather than raw performance so sit back, waft along, and the result was regularly nudging 60mpg with a low of 50mpg.
How it drives
Revised suspension springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bar and new lightweight parts are designed for better roll control and the electric power steering has more response at speed.
It doesn't have the feel and fun factor of a BMW but it's more involving, cornering flatly so you can maintain decent speed through bends and less use of the throttle helps economy.
It's not at the expense of ride quality and, apart from some low-speed pitter-patter on rough surfaces, it's comfortable and cosseting.
Space and comfort
A Lexus cabin is a pleasant experience, even more so in the facelifted IS with its boosted perceived quality and a wealth of standard kit regardless of model.
Passengers in the front have oodles of space but rear legroom is adequate rather than ample and the middle passenger straddles a huge transmission tunnel.
The boot offers a useful 450 litres and decent access – no mean feat given the large electric motor drive batteries underneath. Rear seat backs split 60/40 and drop flat but step up from the boot floor.
At the wheel
The fascia benefits from a higher sensory quality, a 10.3in hi-res multimedia screen replaces the seven-inch unit and some revised controls for heating and ventilation but the mouse-style controller is not the easiest to use on the move.
The fascia feels a little dated but, for some, that might be seen as part of the charm, especially that round analogue clock. Whatever your opinion, you can't fault the fit and finish.
Final say
Lexus refreshing the IS has boosted its appeal but the diesel dilemma will make it even more attractive to the changing attitudes of motorists.
TECH AND SPEC
Price: Lexus IS 300h Luxury Premium Navigation £35,375 (IS 300h range from £30,105)
Powertrain: 2,494cc, 178bhp, four-cylinder petrol engine and 141bhp electric motor generator, giving combined 220bhp, mated to CVT automatic gearbox
Performance: 0-62mph 8.4 seconds; top speed 125mph
MPG: Urban 62.8; extra urban 62.8; combined 65.7
CO2 emissions: 101g/km
Benefit-in-kind tax rate: 19%
Insurance group: 28E (out of 50)
Warranty: Three years or 60,000 miles
Will it fit in the garage? L 4,680mm; W (including door mirrors) 2,027mm; H 1,430mm
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