The Lexus IS 200 sedan arrived in Malaysia early 2000 and it was the first serious response from a Japanese automaker to the successful E46 BMW 3-series. There were a few units initially brought in by grey importers as the selling price turned out to be a high RM220,000 or so. In Europe and elsewhere the IS 200 has never really made a dent in sales of the E46 3-series. This is for one simple reason. It was still a Toyota!
The IS200 is designed from the wheels up as a sports sedan. It is comfortable and well equipped, but the way it sounds, steers and handles immediately identifies the IS200 as being aimed at the enthusiast.
Under the bonnet is a 2.0 litre straight six with two cams and 24 valves, delivering 114 kW of power (there is also a Yamaha engineered 4 cylinder version which is very hard to find). Latest features include a ‘fly by wire’ electronic accelerator, plus variable valve timing and air intakes. The straight six IS200 engine is silky smooth, but really only starts to wake up at the higher end of its rev range. Under 4,000 rpm, the six struggles to accelerate in the higher gears; its midrange is weak, but as the tachometer approaches 5,000, performance becomes more lively and the needle moves quickly, accompanied by a deep, sporting note.
The IS200 come with firm suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 tyres from the factory however some grey cars will have other sizes fitted. Driving the IS200 on a winding road is where you start appreciating the chassis which is exceptionally agile and finely balanced, with high levels of grip and a real go-kart feel. The steering is almost too direct and responsive when turning into corners but it must be noted that after 14 years of abuse you will not feel this on a test drive.
The ride is less compliant than the BMW, and tyre noise is also more pronounced, but clever suspension tuning has managed to retain acceptable comfort. Standard equipment in a Lexus IS200 are 5 spoke 17 inch alloy wheels, a sunroof (on some units), leather bound wheel and cruise control, leather/suede seat upholstery, a limited slip differential, tinted glass, power adjustable driver’s seat, alloy pedals and scuff plates. The Lexus driver’s seat is well bolstered and a more body-hugging design, but the back seat is tighter, shallower and legroom is average.
The IS200’s instruments are stylish and the large centre speedo looks like a sports chronograph watch. Fit and finish is excellent and should last well even after a few owners and some mild abuse from speed demons.
Serious as this effort was and remains this Lexus is a wonderful car in terms of quality, but in terms of styling and performance and handling, it somehow hasn’t quite hit the sweet spot of the compact sports luxury sedan. The side and front view of the car’s design sings European in origin however one look at the rear twin round lamp treatment that is found on the big brother GS300 and you immediately realize its Japanese origin.
As for prices for used IS200’s? Quality and reputation has had a major impact on his model’s value. A 14-year-old well looked after will likely cost you about 30% of its original selling price, which represents an above average residual value. So bargains will be hard to find. For about RM50,000 upwards you start looking for a 14 year old unit with average mileage. RM60K will get you a 13 to 14 year old range topping unit. This is a very good sports sedan, one that is well built, easy to drive and pleasant to live with. If you find a good deal and you like this car, chances are you’re onto something worth owning. Your only other consideration is the E46 BMW which is common on the road and a little boring in features but with asking prices hovering between RM15 to RM20,000. Maintenance is not all like a Camry or Altis rather more like a European. You will need time to find one for sale as owners find it hard to part with them.
To get up, close and personal with a quality used Lexus vehicle visit Naza World (along Federal Highway in PJ) and check their extensive range of Lexus vehicles’s on offer or call 012-332 8116 or 012 332 8141 for an appointment.
