Geneva motor show 2013: Lexus IS 300h to make European debut

The new Lexus IS 300h full hybrid will make its European debut at the Geneva motor show next month. First unveiled at last month's Detroit motor show, the new model features a petrol-electric hybrid system and is due to go on sale in the UK in the summer.

Lexus is talking up the sportier driving dynamics of the IS 300h, which will be offered with a performance-orientated F Sport package.

Autocar has already reviewed the rear-drive Lexus IS 300h in pre-production form, and you can read about it here.

The IS 300h is powered a combination of a 2.5-litre four-cylinder and electric motor h. The hybrid system is used in the Japanese market Toyota Crown – in that car the engine produces 163lb ft and 175bhp, and the motor makes 141bhp and 221lb ft. Combined, the system produces 217bhp and Lexus is aiming for fuel consumption of more than 65mpg.

The 300h are rear-wheel drive and equipped with a CVT. The front double wishbone suspension is a revised version of the system used on the last IS, while the rear is a multi-link system borrowed from the Lexus GS. The IS also uses the GS’s Drive Mode Select software.

F Sport models now get different styling to distinguish them from the standard IS, with a different grille and bumper. Suspension and steering are retuned, and F Sports can be had with optional Adaptive Variable Suspension. Its Drive Mode system gains a fourth setting, too.

The car is slightly wider, longer and taller than the outgoing model, with a 70mm longer wheelbase. Lexus claims this give the IS more room for rear passengers and class-leading rear knee room, while boot size has increased to 480 litres. The hybrid loses 30 litres of boot space.

The cabin design is closely related to the LF CC concept car's, with its high centre console, analogue clock, wide air vents and touch sensitive controls.

Another key part of the brand's Geneva show stand will be the Lexus LF-LC hybrid sports coupé concept, which will be presented in a new Opal Blue finish. Lexus says the concept "showcases its more sporting new image, with a fully driver-focused interior".

The Toyota-owned manufacturer will also showcase the complete range of its F Sport full hybrid models.