Spied: 2014 Lexus IS

The next-generation Lexus IS sedan has been spied undergoing chassis testing in the United States.

Finally hitting prototype stage, the new IS will boast Lexus’ new design language, which will include the eye-catching ‘spindle’ grille. An F-Sport variant is almost certain, which include cosmetic highlights such as larger alloy wheels, F-Sport emblems, and more aggressive fascia’s.

Powertrains remain a mystery for the third-generation IS, but we can safely assume a petrol-electric hybrid will later join the range. A hydrogen fuel-cell model is also currently being tested and may also be offered.

The sedan will eventually be joined by a coupé-convertible and an IS-F performance model. A station wagon model remains a distinct possibility.

The front-wheel-drive compact executive will launch ahead of mid-2013, for the 2014 model year.

The outgoing IS hit the market in 2005 and received minor updates ever since. During the same period, German rivals Mercedes and BMW launched the revised C-Class and all-new F30 3-Series.

Via Carmagazine.co.uk