The third generation of Lexus’ IS compact luxury sedan, which was unveiled in the 2013 NAIAS two months ago, made its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show prior to going on sale this summer.

In Europe, Toyota’s luxury division will offer its BMW 3-Series fighter in two versions. The IS 250 is powered by a direct injection 2.5-liter gasoline V6 with 204HP and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque that is mated to a six-speed “Super ECT” automatic transmission. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph).

The IS 300h is the first model in the IS series to feature a hybrid propulsion system. Its second-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive comprises a new, 2.5-liter gasoline V6 with direct injection that operates on the more fuel-efficient Atkinson cycle and produces 178HP and a 141HP electric motor.

Its maximum combined output is 220HP, with all those horses directed to the rear wheels via the E-CVT transmission. The IS 300h completes the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 8.3 seconds and has a 200 km/h (125 mph) top speed.

At the same time, it achieves class-leading CO2 emissions of only 99 g/km and an average fuel consumption of 4.2 lt/100 km (67.5 mph UK, 56.3 mpg US).

You can scroll down to view the image gallery and two videos of the brand-new IS.

By Andrew Tsaousis

PHOTO GALLERY

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