[Just_me]

Lexus today unveiled the IS-F luxury sedan at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The all-new 2008 IS-F will target the BMW M3 and Audi RS4, delivering more than 400 horsepower and 350 ft.-lbs. of torque from a 5.0-liter V8 engine. It will eventually be offered as a two-door coupe, as well.

Much of the development of the new IS-F took place at Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan. The IS-F is based on the rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS, which is equipped with a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. The IS-F engine is mated to the world’s first eight-speed "direct sport-shift" transmission. A new torque-converter lock-up control was developed that allows for a direct, crisp gear change through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in second through eighth gears.

In Drive mode, the IS-F transmission performs smoothly, and the torque converter allows for quick 0-60 acceleration in less than 4.9 seconds. The transmission also features a manual mode operated via a pair of paddles. Downshifts are accompanied by automated throttle blips to match engine RPM to vehicle speed. Heavy-duty Brembo brakes with 14.2-inch discs and six-piston calipers ensure all the power is kept under control. The IS-F features custom-designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels as standard.

[martinbo]

Thanks Just_me. Wow, doesn't seem to work in the styling department eh?

The front overhang is much longer than I recall on a standard IS and the raised bonnet gives the front a very bloated and unathletic appearance.

The car sits too low on its suspension and looks decidely flat footed.

A case of too much too soon Lexus?

[Just_me]

350 ft.-lbs. of torque whats that in NM?

[hu§eindesign]

I'm very dissapointed of Lexus
Rice!!

[The Artist]

wow..this is not what i expected.. they kinda ruined the car..
give me ordinary IS with these specs please..
this is horrible to be honest

[dOmInIX]

Cool interior - and probably the only good thing about car!

[siko]

Nice performance, nice interior... but I'm not yet sure about the kit!?

[Centurion]

Why lexus, why. The car looks okey but a bit akward. I hope they come up with a good manual transmission becasue their 8 speed automatic sucks. 0-60 in 4.9 is crappy. That means that it will do 0-100km/h i like 5 seconds flat.

[Monster]

An auto gearbox?? hummmm.... The bonnet has a very odd shape, i am just wondering how far forward is the V8, judging from the shape of the bonnet, it is definitely in front of the front wheels

[Just_me]

so do you guys still think its going to be a threat to the german trio?