In a bid to lure BMW drivers into showrooms, Lexus’ European division has introduced a more efficient version of the IS dubbed 200t.
Like its name suggests, the 200t is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that uses a beefy twin-scroll turbocharger to generate 245 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 258 lb-ft. of torque from 1,650 to 4,400 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission controlled by shift paddles. All-wheel drive is not available, meaning that IS buyers looking to tackle adverse weather will need to step up to a V6-powered model.
Also found under the hood of the NX and the RX, the turbo four propels the IS 200t from zero to 62 mph in seven seconds flat – about half a second faster than the entry-level IS 250 offered on our shores – and on to a top speed of 142 mph. Fuel economy checks in at approximately 33.6 mpg in a mixed European cycle.
Visually, it takes an extremely well-trained eye to tell the 200t apart from an IS 250 because the differences are largely limited to smaller fog lights up front. 17-inch alloy wheels come standard, and 18-inch units are available at an extra cost.
The 2015 Lexus IS 200t is scheduled to go on sale across the Old Continent this coming September, but pricing information has not been published yet. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine will likely be added to the IS lineup in the United States before the end of the year.
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