Building on the success of the 2003 model, Lexus will offer a new 2004 IS 300 SportDesign Edition that combines aggressive styling cues with -- for the first time -- a Euro-tuned suspension to match.

This marks the fourth Lexus vehicle to receive the SportDesign treatment, which exudes a sophisticated yet sporty appearance. IS 300 SportDesign models equipped with a manual transmission go one step further and incorporate a Euro-tuned suspension ensuring that the car feels as good as it looks.

This special edition IS 300 benefits from numerous exterior and interior design elements that set it apart at a glance. Customers can choose among three body colors: Alabaster and Thundercloud Metallic, both exclusive to SportDesign, and Black Onyx. Each is matched with 11-spoke, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels finished in silver for Alabaster models and charcoal for all others. Take a closer look and you'll discover head, fog and tail lights in titanium-finish housings, a special tailpipe diffuser finished in a double layer of chrome, a black metallic front grille and distinctive black pearl SportDesign badging front and rear.

Open the door and you can settle into leather seating, either black with gray piping or -- unique to SportDesign -- a new double-stitched "smoke gray" treatment. From there you'll notice SportDesign floor mats and, as part of the "smoke" interior, "smoke" treatment center armrest, carpet and leather door inserts.

The well-equipped SportDesign Edition includes a moonroof and Leather Trim Value Package, and is available with regular production options such as all season tires, heated seats, TORSEN limited slip differential, rear spoiler, Vehicle Stability Control (automatic transmission models only) and Lexus DVD Navigation System.

The 2004 IS 300 SportDesign goes on sale in late January 2004. Approximately 2,000 units are being produced and carry a premium of $1,715 (which includes the leather package) above the current base model IS 300 price of $29,435.