Suspension Developed on the Fuji Speedway

The IS F (¥7.8 million) can be described as both an IS and not an IS. While the supercar LFA is on the horizon, as of November 2009, this is the most powerful and most special Lexus. Announced in December 2007, the IS F features a 5.0-liter V8 engine, an enlarged version of the 4.6-liter engine found in the LS. The engine has been thoroughly refined from the cylinder head to the intake system and even the oil drain, creating a car capable of being driven both in the city and on the track.

In addition to chassis rigidity enhancements, the IS-F features a specially designed suspension developed through extensive testing at Fuji Speedway. Despite being a four-door sedan, it boasts performance comparable to that of a sports car.

The 5-liter V8 engine is equipped with an efficient combustion system utilizing direct injection and port injection, along with a continuously variable valve timing mechanism that adjusts valve timing based on engine speed, achieving both ease of use and high speed.

Similarly, it features a dual intake system that switches intake ports based on engine speed. At low to mid-RPMs, a narrower port efficiently draws the air-fuel mixture into the cylinder, providing ample torque. At high RPMs, a wider port allows for a generous intake of the necessary air-fuel mixture. This dual intake is also exclusive to the IS F.

A Well-Behaved, Ultra-High-Performance Sedan

Upon driving it, the first impression is one of excellent execution. Despite its 423 horsepower, there is absolutely no sense of brutality. Thanks to the dual intake system, the car accelerates with ample torque from low RPMs, but the power delivery is smooth and does not require meticulous attention to throttle input.

As the revs climb, the intake ports switch, and the camshaft phase also changes, signaling the car's entry into high-RPM mode. The acceleration is seamless, and the V8 powerfully propels this 1690kg car forward. Beyond its everyday demeanor, another facet of the IS F emerges: a well-behaved, ultra-high-performance sedan. The steering is precise, and the suspension minimizes roll, providing an 'on-the-rails' sensation, allowing for clean driving without deviation from the intended line.

The appeal of the IS F lies in its ability to house a high-performance powertrain within a relatively compact body, capably handling both city driving and spirited performance. The interior, featuring many exclusive parts, is also of high quality, making it a rare vehicle that Lexus engineers have crafted with idealism. For car enthusiasts, purchasing one now could be a meaningful investment.

LEXUS IS F | LEXUS IS F
Body | Length 4660 x Width 1815 x Height 1415mm Wheelbase 2730mm
Vehicle Weight | 1690kg
Engine | 4968cc V8
Max Output | 311kW [423ps] / 6600rpm
Max Torque | 505Nm [51.5] / 5200rpm
Drivetrain | FR
Transmission | Electronically Controlled 8-Speed AT
Suspension | F: Double Wishbone R: Multi-link
Tires | F: 225/40R19 R: 255/35R19
Price | ¥7.8 million

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0800-500-5577
http://lexus.jp

BRAND HISTORY
Toyota launched its luxury car brand LEXUS in the American market in 1989. The aim was to offer a new value proposition distinct from American and German luxury cars, leveraging Toyota's renowned technological prowess, superior quality, and exceptional customer service.

Upon the introduction of the "LS400" (domestic name: Celsior) and "ES250" (domestic name: Camry) to the American market in September of the same year, the LS400 quickly garnered the "Best Import Car" award by February 1990. Lexus's reputation continued to grow, solidifying its position as a luxury brand with an expanding lineup.

Following its success in America, Lexus expanded into Europe in 2004 and announced its business development in Japan in May of the same year. In August 2005, the brand launched its luxury car business in its home market. Initially, the lineup consisted of the "GS" (successor to the Toyota Aristo), "SC" (successor to the Toyota Soarer), and "IS" (successor to the Toyota Altezza), lacking a flagship "LS." However, the long-awaited new LS was introduced in September 2006, followed by its hybrid version, the "LS600h/LS600hL," in May 2007, meeting the expectations of luxury sedan buyers.

Meanwhile, Lexus has focused on cultivating a sporty image, announcing the sports model "IS F" in October 2007 and entering the prototype sports coupe "LF-A" in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008. Further growth in popularity is anticipated.