Based on the IS model range, Lexus’ new IS F is powered by a 5.0 litre V8 engine with 311kW of power and 505Nm of torque.
Lexus says it will achieve a 0-100 time of 4.8 seconds and a maximum track speed of 270kmh.
Lexus’ General Manager Steve Prangnell said: “Mercedes-Benz with AMG and BMW with the M3, place their emphasis on power, speed and handling with a performance engine and chassis shoehorned into an everyday mainstream body shell. It’s also the direction Lexus is taking with the IS F.”
Its D-4S engine (Direct and port injection 4-Stroke gasoline engine) has titanium intake valves, both direct and port fuel injection, dual VVT-i, including electric motor-driven variable intake valve timing (VVT-iE) and a “special oil scavenge pump for extended high G cornering”.
The IS F has an eight speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission with paddle shifters and powerful Brembo brakes that feature 360mm cross drilled rotors and six piston callipers up front and 345mm two piston callipers at the rear.
A specially tuned stability control system called VDIM features a Sports Mode for high performance driving.
The bonnet, grille, front guards, front and rear bumpers, rocker panel moulding, rear spoiler and other elements were designed exclusively for the IS F based on the Lexus design philosophy ‘L-finesse’.
The three spoke leather steering wheel, embossed with the ‘F’ logo is electronically adjustable with three memory settings that enables the driver to store their preferred position.
Safety is a priority, with advanced features like a Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS). PCS is an advanced safety system that tightens the seatbelts and primes the brakes in the split seconds before an accident is imminent, so increased braking force is available the moment the driver steps on the brake pedal. The Pre-Crash Safety system helps to minimise injury to the driver and front seat passenger in a frontal collision.
Along with an impact absorbing body and Lexus’ Minimum Intrusion Cabin System that is designed to minimise deformation of the cabin in the event of a collision, IS F also features dual-stage SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags for the driver and front passenger seat (SRS twin-chamber airbag for the front passenger seat) and SRS front side, front and rear curtain shield, and front knee airbags.
Lexus’ satellite navigation system features a seven inch electro multi-vision (EMV) colour touch screen display with visual and voice guidance. The touch screen also gives the driver control over the audio, climate control and Bluetooth wireless communication systems.
The 14 speaker Mark Levinson premium features surround sound with an in-dash six disc CD/DVD changer with Bluetooth functions and MP3 compatibility.
IS F has a smart entry system using the smart key and also features push button start.
Six exterior colours are available including the new and unique ultrasonic blue that was designed to represent the colour found in the hottest core of a flame. The interior trim choices are full black leather, black and white leather or black and terra cotta leather. All colour choices are teamed with a metallic fibre composite trim on the centre console and doors.
IS F comes with a comprehensive four-year / 140,000 kilometre warranty and full maintenance service package, a new set of tyres if required and Lexus’ personal assistance 24 hours a day.
The Lexus IS F will come to market with a recommended retail price of $137,000.
