What is it? The 2008 Lexus IS-F is a four-door, four-seat high-performance sport sedan created from the IS. In a sense it’s comparable to an Audi S4 and BMW M3, in that it is a souped-up version of an already sporty compact car. The IS-F has a 5.0-liter V8 good for more than 400 horsepower, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It has the usual performance parts, such as huge Brembo disc brakes on all four corners, 19-inch alloy wheels, and an upgraded suspension. Paddle shifters allow the transmission to be shifted like a manual. The stability control system has Normal and Sport modes, or you can turn it off altogether for enthusiasts who may want to "chuck" the car through tight turns. The interior is neatly finished with aluminum trim, and the gauges are bright and easy to see. In a nod to traditional sports cars, there’s also an oil-temperature gauge.
What is new or notable: The eight-speed transmission is a first for a mass-market car in the United States.
When will it be available? Early 2007.
CR's take: Lexus's relentless pursuit of Mercedes Benz is shifting to a relentless pursuit of BMW. BMW has M, Mercedes has AMG, Cadillac has V, and now Lexus has F. Enthusiasts will give Lexus an "F" for not offering a manual transmission.
