JCE10R (Mk1) IS 300

The IS 300 was somehow less impressive than its smaller-engined sibling, despite addressing that car’s one obvious flaw – its lack of low-range torque.

A single-model only entrant against the six-cylinder A4s, 3 Series and C-classes, the IS 300 used the same 3.0-litre powerplant and gearbox as found in the contemporary GS 300 mid-sized sedan.

It delivered 157kW of power at 5800rpm and 288Nm of torque at 3800rpm.

As the IS range topper, the IS 300 included all the features found in the well-specified IS 200 Luxury Option, and added stability control, leather upholstery, high intensity discharge headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof and rear spoiler.

The IS 300 only sold in small numbers, and was replaced by a very highly specified IS 250 Sport Luxury model when the next-generation IS came on line in late 2005.