Road test: Lexus IS-F

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

The 5.0-litre V8 is a familiar unit as it is also used in the range-topping LS600H. It receives a bit of a workover in the IS-F, the result is 417bhp and 372lb ft of torque. Top speed is an impressive 168mph, with the dash to 60mph covered in just 4.8 seconds. The IS-F certainly sounds the part with it's bassy V8 sound letting everyone know that it means business. This engine is mated to a generally smooth-shifting, eight-speed, paddle-shift automatic transmission. In my view, this is maybe one or two ratios too many as the IS-F feels over geared. Still, the way the IS-F builds speed is impressive and the 24.8 mpg Combined fuel economy figure is better than most of its rivals. The keen turn in makes the Lexus IS-F an exciting car to drive hard.

Find more on Road test: Lexus IS-F