Development of the 2014 Lexus IS began with chief engineer Junichi Furuyama admitting that the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class were more fun to drive than the outgoing IS. The remainder of the improvement process was element of Lexus’ try to send the recent IS past the BMW 3 Series because the number 1 in compact luxury sedan. In today’s Downshift episode, Furuyama outlines what went into ensuring the 2014 Lexus IS sedan performs how it does.

Before Furuyama took at the IS project, he already drove an IS as a regular driver. With the IS needing to catch as much as high-volume models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Furuyama started the 2014 IS engineering process by seeking to define what’s fun to drive. Putting the IS up against competitors at the Higashifuji test track, Lexus engineers analyzed steering feel, brake feel, and speed sensation, and made appropriate changes to present a more entertaining driving experience.

As for the design, the hot IS follows the brand new direction Lexus is moving towards with its L-Finesse design. Which means that the recent spindle grille is supposed to excite and entice, while the inner does an identical with its LFA-like instrument cluster. With the 2014 IS, Furuyama desired to develop a car which can change perception of the Lexus.

Check out the video below and browse our 2014 Lexus IS 350 F Sport First Drive here.