If you were wondering how Lexus managed to inscribe eight legible numbers and an "R" on the top of a shift knob, it's because the IS F doesn't have one. It only comes in automatic. But before you boo and hiss, with 100 millisecond shifts and first gear torque multiplication in M-mode, even John Force would be impressed with a 3,780-pound sedan capable of 13-second quarter mile runs and a 4.6 second 0-60 mph acceleration. Fans of the heel-toe (note: of absolutely no relation to the camel), downshift and the engine revs to match speed. A manual transmission guy myself, I was actually sheepishly relieved that I didn't have to worry about a clutch and gear box with the instant all-motor torque; not that I would ever admit that-out loud anyway.
Driving it around Laguna Seca's elevation changes and turns, it is the suspension that really comes into play. Stiffer springs and shocks (an increase of 90 percent in front and 50 percent in the rear from the IS350), thicker stabilizer bars and firmer bushing give this Lexus an uncharacteristically solid ride. Switch the electric power steering into "Sport" mode and you'll swear the IS F was, gasp, Bavarian.
As titillating as the IS F was on track, it's on the street where you come to really appreciate the sporty Lexus for what it truly is. Comfortable and refined, the only thing separating the F from any other Lexus is the much-welcomed growl of the V-8. Under normal driving conditions, the ride is slightly stiffer but more than bearable. Cut race springs on stock shocks, this is not. A sleeping giant, it's only when you drive into the canyons and flip off some of the VDIM electronic controls does the Lexus stir to life: And what a joyous, raucous life it is.
Far from a glorified IS, this is a magnificent machine that you have to see, touch, hear and drive to truly appreciate. Combine all the performance aspects with Lexus reliability and service; who needs M when you can have a little F? Unless you enjoy electrical problems, that is.
Pulling into the hot pits after tackling Laguna Seca, my passenger asks, "What did you think?"
"This is one f-in mean, f-in aggressive, f-in fast and most importantly f-in clean ride." I catch my breath, "I f-in want one."
2008 Lexus Is F
MSRP: TBA
Engine: 5.0L, 32-valve DOHC V8
Power Rating: 416 hp @ 6,600 rpm, 371 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm
Configuration: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
Transmission: Eight-speed Sport direct Shift automatic with paddle shift
Curb Wieght: 3,780 pounds
Suspension: Monotube gas-filled shocks; double wishbone (front), multilink (rear)
Wheels: Forged aluminum BBS wheels (19x8 front, 19x9 rear)
Tires: 225/4R19 front; 255/35R19 rear
Brakes: Ventilated disc (front), solid disc (rear)
Fuel Economy: Estimated EPA 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway
Drive Impression: What I've been eagerly waiting for: A Euro-fighting luxury sports sedan form Japan. On its first F attempt, Lexus delivered a car that surpassed any of my expectations. Fast and powerful, yet sophisticated and polished, this is a car tuners graduate to.
Tunability: A tweaked version of a relatively new motor, there isn't an exact abundance of parts, yet; as fast and balanced the car is stock, do you really need anything but a nice set of wheels?