Angry, aggressive and hostile. The Lexus IS-F promises to light up the track
Who would have thought that the guys from Lexus would bring us such a self-asserting sedan? It’s based on the rear-wheel-driven Lexus IS, but it’s been given a complete performance makeover. Its highly tuned 5-litre V8 engine ensures a rather bruising driving experience. The IS-F’s motor is coupled to an impressive eight-speed direct sport-shift transmission and, with its almost instant shifts, helps it to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds. This puts it up there with the S4 and CLS63 AMG. So this Lexus is not just a trump card, it’s able to translate its power swiftly to the road surface. Over the years Lexus has been criticised for its cars that, although easy on the eye, fail to impress on the track. This new interpretation has provided a passage for petrol-heads that crave not only power, but luxury too. The attention to performance is supplemented by adaptive styling cues that contrast the IS-F from the standard IS model. The IS-F has a dual-exhaust system and quad-tail pipes, wider front fenders, prominent grill and rear spoiler. The hood and lower intake vents were enlarged to cool the V8 engine. Esteemed wheel makers BBS, were summoned to engineer massive 19-inch anthracite wheels that add aggression to its look. With great power comes great responsibility, so to provide decent stopping power the IS-F is fitted with a six-pot heavy-duty Brembo braking system. Lexus is synonymous with quality, so there is no surprise that its interior is a blend of comfort and utility.
Not to everyone's taste, the new tailpipe formation adds a provocative touch to its already malevolent styling
Go figure: Performance figures are set at 311kW and 505Nm, impressive for a naturally aspirated engine.
The verdict: Lexus has produced a mighty warrior, a traveller whose all-round package will bravely duel its adversaries for the top spot.
Price: R776 900
0-100km/h: 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 270km/h (Limited)
Power: 311kW and 505Nm
Aaron Borrill
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