A new higher performance IS model will join the range before the end of the year, says Lexus Australia. The IS 350, powered by a 3.5-litre DOHC V6, will slot in between the IS 250 and the V8-engined IS. 

Developing 228kW of power and 375Nm of torque, the IS 350's V6 drives through a six-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission to the rear wheels. Lexus claims that the IS 350 will reach 100km/h from a standing start within 5.6 seconds.

"Lexus Australia has always stated that IS 350 would be a welcome addition to the local vehicle line-up and we are very excited about its arrival," said Lexus Australia's chief executive, Tony Cramb.

"The IS 350 will slot nicely between IS 250 and IS F, further strengthening Lexus' performance credentials.  IS 350, along with future product from Lexus, will go a long way to solidifying Lexus' popularity in Australia."

The new model will broaden the appeal of the IS range and provide Lexus with a means to compete against larger-displacement rivals from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Australia will be only the fourth country to see the IS 350, after the US, Canada and Japan. Cramb says that the pitch for the car in Australia was not an easy task and required long and intense negotiation between Lexus Australia and the head office in Japan. Lexus is yet to release final specifications and pricing, but those details will be announced closer to the car's local launch.

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