Road Test: Lexus IS 200 2.0 Sport 4dr

Back in our February issue, we put our long-term Lexus IS200 Sport on trial (see TG 89), charged with masquerading as a sports saloon, and with you, dear readers, as the jury. You heard the argument for the prosecution, stating that this, the littlest Lex, merely aped the archetypal BMW layout of straight-six engine and rear-wheel drive, but didn't have the substance to go with the style. The defence in turn stated that the IS200 was actually a very capable, good-looking, fun car. And after having deliberated, digested and cogitated, you, the public, have spoken. It wasn't a unanimous verdict - we had 43 guilty votes - but by a sweeping majority, the Lexus IS200 has been found, most definitely, not guilty. It may drive away from the dock, a free car, its status as a sports saloon assured. Justice has been served

Colin Ryan