Lexus IS F-Sport unveiled

Lexus has revealed the first images of the next-generation BMW 3-Series rivalling IS F-Sport, showing the car’s bold new look, incorporating an evolution of the styling first seen on last year’s LF-CC concept. The car will be fully revealed at the Detroit motor on 15 January, with more technical details expected.

Full 2013 Detroit motor show coverage here

The new car is both longer and wider that the outgoing IS, and Lexus claims that the cabin is more spacious than its rivals as a result. It's very similar to the concept inside, and features touch-sensitive electrostatic switches for the climate control. The new seats apparently take inspiration from the LFA, as well as the central ‘driver’s meter’ in the instrument pack.

As expected, the IS will get a version of the Lexus’s ‘Spindle’ front grille treatment – as with the rest of the Lexus range. F-Sport models will get a slightly different front end, with more cooling and a deeper front grille to set it apart from the rest of the IS range.

No drivetrain details have been released at this time, but last year’s LF-CC concept featured a new 2.5-litre petrol and electric hybrid system, similar to the current CT200 and Toyota Prius, which is likely to make it into production.

Full 2013 Detroit motor show coverage here