New Lexus IS-F

Based on the rear-wheel-drive IS sedan, the IS-F is formed by cramming a 5.0-liter V-8 under the car's new, larger hood.

Car companies have been trying to topple BMW's M3 from its performance perch for years. Now you can add Lexus to that list, with its 400-plus-bhp IS-F. Originally an internal code 20 years ago for the project that would become Lexus, specifically the LS luxury sedan, Lexus officials now say "The ‘F'...is a signature for a new high-performance marque conceived by an engineering team that dared to turn their dream of a Lexus-like-no-other into a reality."

Lexus IS-FBased on the rear-wheel-drive IS sedan, the IS-F is formed by cramming a 5.0-liter V-8 under the car's new, larger hood. The power is transferred to the road via "the world's first 8-speed direct paddle sport shift transmission," which can be operated by paddle shifters when used in manual mode. A sport-tuned suspension lowers the ride height by 1 in. while 19-in. BBS forged alloy wheels carry sticky performance rubber. The 14.2-in., 6-piston front brakes are by Brembo, as are the 13.6-in. rears. The none-too-subtle exterior changes include "F" badging, but also larger front fenders, deep side skirts, a larger rear spoiler and a set of stacked dual exhausts. Possibly the best news of all? The incredibly annoying VDIM stability control system has an "off" mode.
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