With the Lexus IS-F, Lexus made its entry into the sports car segment. 2008 was the year in which this model finally landed, ending a long period of speculation about whether Lexus was capable of such a car, given that its niche market is the luxury car.
We are told the F in the name stands for ‘Formula’; so, this should serve notice that Lexus means business. It has a long list of cars such as Acura TL Type-S; Audi RS4 and the BMW M3 to out-race, but one thing is certain –it is here to stay.
Into only its second year, the IS-F does not carry too many changes. One gets a two-tone interior and a new instrument cluster for this year. These are the only noticeable changes; there are dozens of little tweaking here and there.
A package, in which a navigation system and a Mark Levinson Premium Audio system are provided, is offered as an option.
Engine and performance
The engine is a solid, extremely powerful 5.0-liter V8 that pumps out as many as 416 horses and 371 lb ft of torque. The acceleration is one of its major points. It can shoot to 60 mph in less than 4.9 seconds. To complement this power, the IS F features an eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift transmission, a first from Lexus, and a two-stage intake system.
Monotube gas-pressure shock absorbers and stabilizer bars are given for enhanced suspension. Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), a system which integrates braking, steering, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC), is given to help minimize loss of traction during a turn. Brembo®, a special brake system is given.
Body and Styling
Sculpted fenders; adaptive front lighting system; Bi-Xenon™ HID Headlamps; BBS® 19-inch forged aluminum, 10-spoke wheels and a low-restriction exhaust system are some of the important exterior features of the 2009 Lexus IS-F.
Optional features include dynamic radar cruise control and intuitive parking assist.
The major interior features of the 2009 Lexus IS-F are bolstered leather-trimmed sport seats with distinctive “F” styling; distinguishing aluminized console and doors; Bluetooth and blue LED indicator needles.
A Mark Levinson Premium Surround Audio system and a navigation system that can recognize more than 100 distinct vices are some of the optional features.
Safety Features
A reinforced body that protects passengers better; a network of advanced airbags; direct tire pressure monitor; a theft-deterrent system; three-point seatbelts; daytime running lights and anti-lock braking system with Brake Assist are some of the standard safety features of this model.
A pre-collision system, which increases brake force when a collision is unavoidable, is one of the optional safety features.
