Lexus IS300h F Sport Mode Black VI debuts in Japan

New 19-inch BBS forged wheels

The biggest visual change is a newly developed set of 19-inch forged aluminium wheels made by BBS and finished in black.

Their slim multi-spoke design is intended to complement the IS’s sporty styling while giving the Mode Black VI its own identity. Lexus notes that tyre chains cannot be fitted to the special-edition wheels.

Ultrasuede and L tex interior

Inside, the Mode Black VI gets black Ultrasuede and L tex sports seats, with driver’s-seat position memory and ventilation for both front seats.

Ultrasuede is also used on the door-trim armrests and upper section of the front centre console. Lexus describes L tex as a synthetic leather developed to provide a texture and feel similar to genuine leather.

As part of the wider IS300h update, Lexus has also made the cold-weather specification standard across the range in Japan.

2.5-litre hybrid with rear-wheel drive

The Japanese-market IS300h uses a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid powertrain and rear-wheel drive, including the new Mode Black VI special edition. According to Lexus Japan’s current IS specifications, the hybrid system produces a combined 162 kW/220 PS/217 hp. The petrol engine develops 131 kW/178 PS/176 hp and 221 Nm, while the electric motor produces 105 kW/143 PS/141 hp and 300 Nm.

These output figures were not explicitly announced in the Mode Black VI launch release and are based on Lexus Japan’s existing technical specifications for the IS300h.

Prices from ¥5.9 million

The standard IS300h starts at ¥5.9 million, equivalent to approximately USD 37,500 / AED 137,900 at current exchange rates.

The IS300h Version L costs ¥6.2 million, or around USD 39,450 / AED 144,900, while the F Sport is priced at ¥6.45 million, approximately USD 41,000 / AED 150,700.

The new IS300h F Sport Mode Black VI costs ¥6.95 million, equivalent to roughly USD 44,200 / AED 162,400. Japanese prices include 10% consumption tax but exclude recycling fees. Currency conversions are approximate.

More than 1.3 million IS models sold

The Lexus IS was first introduced in 1999 and has spent more than 25 years developing its identity as a compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedan.

Lexus says approximately 1.3 million IS models have been sold across around 40 countries and regions since the nameplate was introduced.

For now, the F Sport Mode Black VI has been announced specifically for Japan, with the October 1 launch applying to the domestic market. Lexus has not announced UAE or other international availability in this release.