2008 Lexus IS-F
By Rich Ceppos
On Sale: January 2008
Expected Pricing: $57,000
When Lexus introduced the IS-F at the 2007 North American Auto Show in Detroit, it revealed that the "F" designation was originally the secret code name for the very first Lexus when it was under development 20 years ago. But after seeing the new IS-F in person, you'll more likely think the "F" stands for "fast."
The IS-F is the first of what Lexus promises will be a new line of thoroughly serious high-performance products that could also include a high-end sports car. All will wear the "F" badge.
As Lexuses go, the IS-F is extreme rather than serene. It's based on a highly modified IS 250/350 sedan, a vehicle about the size of a BMW 3 Series praised for its deft ride and handling.
But while the standard IS sedans use six-cylinder engines, the F gets pumped way up with a modified version of the Lexus 4.6-liter V8, now enlarged to 5.0 liters. Lexus is predicting final output to be around 400 horsepower and more than 350 pound-feet of torque, with a redline of 7000 rpm.
The IS-F sends that power through an eight-speed automatic transmission equipped with a sport mode that enables lightning fast shifts via shift paddles located behind the steering wheel rim. In normal, hands-off, fully automatic operation, the transmission, should shift unobtrusively. (It's also used in the LS 460.)
Lexus says this powertrain will launch the LS-F out of the gate to 60 mph in less than 4.9 seconds, which will make it a serious player in the ranks of the Audi RS4, Cadillac CTS-V, and other super performance sedans.
The rest of its equipment backs this up. The suspension is lowered by one inch over the current IS models, and the IS-F boasts firmer springs and big tires on 19-inch diameter alloy wheels, all designed to deliver enhanced road grip. A recalibrated VDIM electronic stability control system allows more aggressive driving and can even be turned off, a feature that might be useful for autocrosses and other competition events.
The IS-F does not hide its light under a bushel. The hood bulges to accommodate the V8, its new front fenders sport large air extractor vents, and the rear end features a deck spoiler and four tailpipes stacked two per side like evil machine guns. Inside the cabin are deep pocketed sport bucket seats and special trim, along with all the Lexus luxuries you'd expect.
1-800-USA-LEXUS
www.lexus.com
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