In 2006, Lexus introduced the second generation of the IS series. The compact sedan was now available with two engine options: a 2.5 or 3.5 liter V-6. This marked the first appearance of a V engine in the IS series, as the two Toyota GR power plants replaced the first generation's inline six. When the IS debuted in 2001, it replaced the ES series as the entry-level Lexus.
The IS 250 was offered in two trims: RWD and AWD. The rear-wheel model came standard with a six-speed manual transmission, and a six-speed automatic was available as an option. The all-wheel drive model was only available as an automatic. Both ISs were powered by a modest 2.5 liter V-6. It was the smallest engine found in any Lexus since the first generation ES series in the early 1990s. This 32-valve DOHC V-6 produced 204 horsepower and 185 pound feet of torque. The IS 250 could not perform like the 350, with its sluggish 0-60 time of nearly eight seconds. Gas mileage depended on drive type: the rear wheel drive sedan was rated at 24/32 mpg and the AWD version was rated at 22/28 mpg. In 2007, Lexus added a feature which allowed drivers to disable the traction control system, allowing for better performance.
Perhaps the most significant change in the new IS was the interior. The first generation had received steady criticism for its simple, un-Lexus-like interior. The new IS was equipped with leather seating and the Lexus SmartAccess keyless system as standard equipment. Options included a navigation system with a touch screen display, Bluetooth capability, Mark Levinson audio, and a rear back up camera. The back up camera was recommended because the high rear deck limited visibility.
