Lexus IS F

The IS F's drip-feed updates continue. Last year, a mechanical limited-slip diff was fitted as standard, which edged it closer to the dynamic talents of the BMW M3. For 2011, it gets a facelift, the focus of which is a minor suspension refresh.


Controversially styled, the Lexus IS F’s remodeled lines stems purely from aerodynamic function, coming straight from the Formula One text book of wind tunnel sculpture. Sure, the looks aren’t everyone’s cup of saké, but in an ostentatious, over the top kind of way they almost gel – or at least help the IS F stand out like the proverbial dog’s, er, sore thumb.

Inside though, IS F is a completely different story. The cabin is demure, luxuriously appointed and well stocked with all the mod cons expected from the Lexus marque. With a standard features list as long as the IS F’s torque curve, the cockpit marries the premium feel of the Lexus IS Sports Luxury with bespoke ‘F’ features to form an array of technology Steve Jobs himself would be impressed by. Features include radar cruise control, dual-zone climate, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry with push button start and, perhaps best of all, a pumping 14-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, to name but a few.



Specs:
Price Range:$61,300 - $61,300
MPG Range:N/A
Bodystyles:Sedans
Engine: 5.0L V eight-cylinder DOHC with variable valve timing
Premium unleaded fuel
Fuel economy: EPA (08):, 16 MPG city, 23 MPG highway, 18 MPG combined and 304 mi. range
Gasoline direct fuel injection
16.9gallon fuel tank
Power (SAE): 416 hp @ 6,600 rpm; 371 ft lb of torque @ 5,200 rpm