In the luxury car market, Lexus's IS series is the single most potent Japanese threat to entry-level German machinery like the 3-Series, C-Class and A4. Want all of the goodies, but power from a fuel-efficient engine driving two wheels only? No problem. Want all wheel drive for better handling and confidence? You got it. A bigger 6 or even 8 cylinder engine? Check.

Selection is how the Germans play ball for entry-level dollars, and that's what Lexus is up to as well. How bold.

The IS series is available in IS250 and IS350 designations.

The range
The IS series is available in IS250 and IS350 designations- powered by a 2.5 or 3.5 liter V6 indicated by the 250 or 350 badge on the trunk. Horsepower is rated at 204 or 306, respectively.

The smaller V6 in the IS250 can be had with an automatic or manual transmission, as well as an all wheel drive system- though the latter only comes with the autobox. This setup was employed by the test-vehicle, which also came packaged with the plentiful $8,400 luxury package for a tidy $46,000 as tested sticker.

Features like heated and chilled seats, a rear sunshade, keyless entry and adaptive xenon lighting with washers were fitted for a stratospheric level of equipment that makes some competitors look underdressed. The interior's execution does much the same job.

Wow, that's soft!
The Lex boasts a more energetic and inviting interior than you'll find in a competing Benz, Bimmer or Audi. Contrasting khaki leather, wood trim and metallic accents form a 'just-right' blend of flowing, opulent luxury and sportiness that share the same cabin.

There's a level of passion in the details inside as well. The electroluminescent gauges have programmable warning-rings, and the sharp LED mood lighting activates as you approach the car at night. Door-sills with glowing Lexus logo look slick in the dark as well.

Nearly every surface is covered in plush fabric or buttery-soft leather. One doesn't generally spend a lot of time touching their car's interior bits while driving, but the IS may cause them to start.

The Lex boasts a more energetic and inviting interior than you'll find in a competing Benz, Bimmer or Audi.