The Lexus IS is a compact executive car sold by Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, since 1998. Originally sold as the Toyota Altezza in Japan, it was rebranded as the Lexus IS for international markets. The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model positioned below the ES in the Lexus lineup.
The first-generation Altezza (X10) was launched in Japan in 1998, while the Lexus IS 200 (GXE10) debuted in Europe in 1999 and as the IS 300 (JCE10) in North America in 2000. These early models were equipped with straight-six engines and were available in sedan and wagon variants.
Key Points:
1. The Lexus IS is a compact executive car sold by the luxury division of Toyota since 1998.
2. Originally sold as the Toyota Altezza in Japan before being rebranded for international markets.
3. Positioned as an entry-level sport model below the ES in the Lexus lineup.
4. The first-generation Altezza (X10) was launched in Japan in 1998, Lexus IS 200 (GXE10) in Europe in 1999, and IS 300 (JCE10) in North America in 2000.
5. These early models featured straight-six engines and were available in sedan and wagon variants.
Overall, the Lexus IS has a history of combining luxury with sporty elements and offers a range of engine options and body styles
