Through the years, European models such as the BMW M3, Mercedes C-Class AMG and the Audi RS range have had a stranglehold on the “super sports compact” segment. Lexus’ response was the IS F, a 5-litre V8 version of its classy executive saloon.
While lacking the raw, racy edge of the M3 or the RS4, the Lexus IS F won notice for being very quick yet supremely civilised.
The facelifted Lexus IS F (first shown last October in Paris) features the now obligatory LED daytime running lights, plus a host of minor changes. The most obvious difference in the cabin is the completely revised main instrument display.
A large tachometer, with a window for digital speed readouts, has been given pride of place in a central position, and the analogue speedometer now resides in the lower right corner.
New instrument cluster is more attractive than the two-tone leather.
An orange light in the tacho flashes when the traction control is activated, while a red light with a beeper warns of over-revving, especially when changing down sharply for a steep curve coming up.
Other tweaks include safety-related enhancements for the seats and the inclusion of emergency locking retractors for the rear seat belts. The updated Lexus IS F also finally gets a proper Lexus navigation system in addition to a reverse camera.
Naturally aspirated 5-litre V8 is as great as before.
For me, however, the key improvement has to be the revised suspension settings. Blindfold an experienced motoring journalist and put him in the car, and he would never guess he was in a high-performance Lexus. The ride is supple, almost devoid of road noise and free of the suspension bump-thumps that are part and parcel of German sports saloons.
The Lexus IS F is quiet at a cruise and only purrs a discreet V8 growl when revved past 3800rpm. And the Lexus IS F is fast. With 417bhp and over 500Nm, it achieves the century sprint in just 4.8 seconds and whizzes on to a quoted top speed of 270km/h. Best of all, it delivers this stunning performance with the refinement of a true-blue luxury vehicle.
The 8-speed automatic does a sterling job, changing gears very quickly and staying seamless even when Sport mode is selected. Steering is direct, nicely weighted and informative. Charge round corners at insane speeds and the car never loses its cool – it always feels balanced and neutral in its handling.
To me, the latest Lexus IS F is a fantastic all-rounder. It is rapid, yet incredibly refined and genuinely comfortable. My wish is to have it for the long term!
Lexus IS F 5.0 (A)
ENGINE 4969cc, 32-valves, V8
MAX POWER 417bhp at 6600rpm
MAX TORQUE 505Nm at 5200rpm
GEARBOX 8-speed automatic with manual select
0-100KM/H 4.8 seconds
TOP SPEED 270km/h
CONSUMPTION 8.8km/L
PRICE INCL. COE $364,000 (as of August 2011)
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