Lexus IS-F: The Japanese BMW M3 Killer

By Motoring Channel Staff - 16/Jan/2006

Detroit, USA — Though it's still technically a 'concept', what you see here is Lexus getting serious about performance. Taking a leaf from BMW's 'M' division, Lexus used the 2007 Detroit auto show to unveil the 2008 model IS-F - where the F stands for fast. 

Based on the IS250 and IS350 model, which both feature 6-cylinder engines, this is an early look at the range-topping IS model, which uses 8-cylinders to gain almost 300kW of power (400 hp).

Expected to rival vehicles such as the BMW M3 and Audi RS 4, the Lexus sedan is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine that transfers power to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Development

According to Lexus, much of the development of the new IS-F took place at Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan, as opposed to the usual testing ground of high performance luxury cars - the Nürburgring in Germany. 

Chassis

Lexus says that IS-F is based on the proven rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS, which is equipped with a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension for improved traction. But more than just a V8 engine in the IS series bodyshell, Lexus engineers have tweaked the chassis, with one of the biggest and more impressive changes being the integration of huge 360mmcross-drilled front discs with 6-piston aluminium Brembo brake callipers. 

At the rear, 345mm cross-drilled discs with twin-piston callipers make the grade, while 'high-friction' brake pads are standard on all four wheels. Interestingly, the brakes are finished with the Lexus name displayed on the calipers, which the Japanese company claims is a first for a Lexus production vehicle.

The wheels are big 19-inch things, made of forged alloy for extra strength, and were built to Lexus' specifications by BBS. The tyres measure 225/40 R19 (19 x8) up front and 255/35 R19 (19 x 9) at the rear.

Other chassis tweaks to the Japanese bruiser include a lower ride height, dropped by 25mm, which Lexus says will give the car an exciting and energetic drive on both the race track and the streets.

"The intent of creating the IS-F was not to be a competitor to other performance-sport sedans," said Bob Carter, who is the Lexus group vice president and general manager. 

"Rather, the goal was to create a true performance sedan in a uniquely Lexus way - one that is totally authentic with a unique interpretation of raw driving thrill at all speeds and provides a whole new definition of 'usable power'," added Carter.

If Bob Carter's to be believed, this vehicle is not aimed at the BMW M3 and Audi RS 4. But you have to wonder...

V8 Power

Powered by a new 5.0-litre V8 engine with 'more than' 400 horsepower - which is about 300kW - the IS-F is expected to be one of the quickest small luxury sedans on the market. The Japanese car maker says that concept car will hit 60mph from rest in 4.9 seconds, so a zero to 100km/h dash should take about 5.1 seconds, which is almost exotically quick.

Lexus has also revealed that the IS-F generates more than 350 ft.-lbs. of torque, which is about 475Nm of torque. That's more than the Audi RS 4 and is expected to be more rear-wheel torque than the upcoming BMW M3.

The 5.0-litre Lexus V8 engine also features specially engineered heads fed by a two-stage intake system to increase power, which is rumoured to peak at around 7000rpm. Also, engine-oil and transmission-fluid coolers have been employed for high-speed performance, while a cylinder head-scavenging oil pump keeps the pistons and crank lubricated during high G-force driving.

8-Speed Gearbox

The new 8-speed automatic transmission is also a neat idea, borrowed from the larger LS460. Lexus calls the gearbox the world's first 8-speed direct sport-shift transmission, which has a new torque converter lock-up control. This last system was developed so that direct, crisp gear changes were possible says Lexus, which works through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in second through to eighth gears. 

As well as the unique torque converter lock-up control, the new 8-speed transmission gets an advanced manual mode, which can be operated via a pair of paddles located within a fingertip's reach behind the steering wheel. Lexus claims up-shift gear changes of within a tenth of a second. Downshifts are also accompanied by automated and incredibly precise throttle blips to match engine RPM to vehicle speed, says Lexus.

As well as the new chassis updates and the storming new V8 engine, Lexus explains that the IS-F features an all-new three-mode version of Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. In addition to the Normal mode, the new VDIM features a Sport mode that allows the driver to push the car even further before its braking-, throttle- and steering-control systems kick in. The third VDIM system mode is Off, which allows the driver to push the IS-F to its ultimate level of handling performance, and is suitable for track and burnout use.

The attention to performance is complemented by modified styling cues that differentiate the IS-F from the standard IS, and as Lexus explains, these cover the car from front to rear with a dual-exhaust system and quad-tail pipes, wider front fenders (a la Audi RS 4), and a larger grille and rear spoiler. Both the hood and lower intake were also enlarged to accommodate the V8 engine and ensure its thermal efficiency.

And just like the exterior, the interior of the IS-F has been the recipient of new styling with lots of aluminised composite trim and special surface treatments. The instrument panel includes an oil-temperature gauge and shift indicator-lights, while the "F" logo is showcased on the steering wheel and rear-center console.

Other interior upgrades over standard IS models includes specially shaped and trimmed (sports) seats, providing improved lateral support, and these are available in black or high-contrast white and black trim.

Lexus says that the IS-F will arrive at Lexus dealerships in the USA in early 2008.

Lexus IS-F Specifications:

Powertrain
Engine: 5.0-liter V8
Horsepower: 300kW (more than 400hp)
Torque: 475Nm (more than 350 lb.-ft.)
Transmission: 8-speed gear box (paddle sport shift)

Brakes
Large diameter cross-drilled discs
Front 360mm
Rear: 345mm
Opposed aluminum calipers
Front: Six piston
Rear: Two piston

Wheels
Forged aluminum 19-inch wheels
Front: 225/40 R19 (19 x8)
Rear: 255/35 R19 (19 x 9)

Performance
0-96km/h: Under 4.9 seconds
Fuel Economy: TBD
Emissions Rating: ULEV II

Related articles:
- Lexus GS450h (Road Test)
- Lexus IS250 (Road Test)
- Lexus LS460 (2007)
- Lexus LS 600h L (2007)
- Lexus GS430 (Road Test)
- Lexus LF-Sh (concept)