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DRIVEN: Lexus IS-F Honed To Perform
The upgraded, all-out performance version of the sports-compact sedan boasts V8 power and knife-edge response.
Bob Golfen  |  Posted March 12, 2013   Phoenix, AZ
The Lexus IS-F gets more-aggressive styling befitting its performance mission. (Photo: Bob Golfen)
For most drivers, Lexus equates to soft comfort, with cushy cars and SUVs that are long on reliability but short on passion.

Which makes the Lexus IS-F something of an anomaly. The spicy-hot version of the IS sport compact brings us the only dedicated driving machine in regular production from Lexus that has the power, agility and sportiness to compete with the likes of BMW M3, as well as Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG and Audi S4.

A set of stacked tailpipes distinguishes the IS-F rear treatment. (Photo: Bob Golfen)
I say “regular production” because that leaves out the exclusive Lexus LFA supercar, which is a whole other subject for another time.

As with most driving enthusiasts, the IS is my favorite Lexus model because it's the most fun you can have driving a Lexus. The F-Sport treatment focuses this already responsive sports sedan considerably, making it feel ready for competitive track time as well as back-road romps.

Ride and handling are taut and firm, the steering is lively and quick, the Brembo brakes have massive stopping power and the highly bolstered sport seats hold you in place like a cork in a bottle.

The star of the show would be the 5-liter V8 that cranks out more than 400 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Tromp on the gas and hang on as this little beast roars like a titan as it hurtles you forward.

The raised hood accommodates the 5-liter, 416-horsepower V8. (Photo: Bob Golfen)
The power is available at any speed, with the eight-speed automatic transmission downshifting to the lowest possible gear in a flash to hook you up with all that torque. Hit it at 75 mph, and triple digits are just a few clicks away.

This compact sports-sedan segment is dominated by the BMW 3-Series and the superb M3, but the Lexus mounts quite an argument in its favor. There are some key differences in the driving character – the IS-F feels more sharp-edged and perhaps a bit harsher than the more-sophisticated M3 – but I would stand the Lexus up with the BMW for comparison.

The stiffened IS-F suspension can feel buffeting on rough pavement, and my regular driving partner said she felt bounced around. But get it out on the open highway, and the prompt handling and well-planted stability are highly appreciated.

At least, that’s how it felt during a fast all-day drive into Arizona high country, where the pines are tall, the towering cliff faces are stark, and the winding roads twist up and down the mountainsides. The perfect venue for a car with such exceptional handling and steering response.
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