Lexus announced today that the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2001 IS 300 sport sedan will be $30,500.

The exciting new sedan, which will go on sale at Lexus' 187 dealerships on June 23, comes standard with many features that are optional on competing models. A single-feed, in-dash six-CD autochanger eliminates the need for a separate CD cartridge, while High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps and 17" high-performance wheels and tires add to the sedan's sporty appearance.

Also unlike competitive models that offer base and optional powertrains, the IS 300 will come standard with a 215-horsepower, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 218 lb.-ft of peak torque at 3,800 rpm. The engine, which can also be found in the GS 300 high-performance sport sedan, employs continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) to optimize valve overlap throughout the engine's speed range. VVT-i eliminates the traditional compromise between low-end torque and high-rpm horsepower, giving the IS 300 the feel of having a larger-displacement engine.

The IS 300 engine will be paired with an electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission with Formula One-inspired E-shift steering-wheel gear-selection controls.

"We've been saying all along that this sporty Lexus will draw an entirely new customer to the Lexus family with its youthful styling and performance orientation," said Bryan Bergsteinsson, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "This sedan offers a great deal of equipment at an outstanding price and will appeal to buyers who value athletic performance and bold design over pure luxury."

Other standard features include traction control (TRAC), automatic climate control, stainless steel sport scuff plates and drilled aluminum sport pedals, shift knob with metallic finish, cruise control, power windows with one-touch up/down for the driver, heated outside mirrors, trunk pass through, alarm with immobilizer and in-key remote control.

Lexus projects that it will sell 25,000 IS 300s annually.

Pricing Summary:   
Base MSRP                                $30,500
Leather/ecasine seats 
with programmable garage door opener     $1,705
Luxury Leather Package: special interior with 
programmable garage door opener          $1,805
Moonroof                                 $1,000
Limited slip differential                $390
Heated front seats                       $440
17" graphite polished wheels with summer tires $400
16" wheels with all season tire          no charge
Delivery, processing and handling fee    $495

  Autoworld.com

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