Put the IS-F in "D" and the car drives just like any other Lexus. The throttle response lags, the transmission takes its sweet time shifting and the steering gets an extra dose of electric assist. In other words, the car is neutered and numb, but its still-stiff suspension crashes over every imperfection in the road. Push that "Sport" button to get things back on-point and the car once again becomes a joy to drive, making the rough ride a lot more livable. Hold that "Sport" button for three seconds and all the driving aids shut themselves off. Now the IS-F is ready for some full tail-out action-provided you have the skills, that is.
Track day warriors will likely keep the driving aids off, as the electronic nannies come in so abruptly that they kill any and all semblance of fun. But then again, we're not sure we can see this car becoming a favorite of track day enthusiasts. There's just too much Lexus DNA in this thing preventing it from being the ultimate kick in the pants explosion-on-wheels that a car like the RS4 is. The IS-F's glorious, bellowing exhaust note from the V8 doesn't exist below 3,600 rpm, and when it does kick in, it's only audible from the outside of the car.
But again, seeing as how this car wasn't supposed to be built in the first place, we've got to commend Lexus for allowing such a slightly rough-around-the-edges car to even be sold to the public. What the IS-F lacks in pure adrenaline, it more than makes up for with sheer capability. It's capable of giving its RS4 and M3 rivals a run for their money at a much lower price point, and that's always a good thing.
That New Car Smell
'08 Lexus IS-F
The Sticker TBA, but probably around $60k
Under the Hood 5.0L 90-degree aluminum V8
The Power 416 hp @ 6600 rpm; 371 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
Scale Tipping 3,780 lbs.
Layout front engine, RWD
Gearbox 8-speed automatic dual clutch w/ paddle shift
Stiff Stuff double wishbone front, multilink rear
Rollers 19x8-in front, 19x9-in rear BBS wheels; 225/40R19 93Y front, 255/35R19 96Y rear tires, manufactured for IS-F
Stoppers Power-assisted w/ ABS and manufactured by Bembo; (F): 14.2-in dics, six piston caliper, (R): 13.6-in discs, two piston caliper
At the Pump 16 mpg city / 23 mpg hwy
The Pack BMW M3, Audi RS4
Deep Thoughts The first Japanese rival to cars like the M3 and RS4. A great car, but it needs to dial up the fun factor if it wants to steal buyers away from the Germans.
By Justin Kaehler
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