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Title: Lexus IS-F - 2008 IS500
Description: Release info, vids etc in here!


Stephen - July 29, 2006 04:44 PM (GMT)

SSML - July 30, 2006 05:57 AM (GMT)
Wah, u c the exhaust pipes??

DReMpT - July 31, 2006 02:24 AM (GMT)
They look tough BUT aparently price is going to be very hefty!

KCSS - August 17, 2006 12:56 PM (GMT)
latest pic

user posted image

user posted image

MoviStar - August 18, 2006 04:50 AM (GMT)
Latest Is500 coupe

xero - January 9, 2007 12:35 AM (GMT)
Sourced from, Images available here

http://www.netcarshow.com/lexus/2008-is-f/

Much of the development of the new IS-F took place at Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan. The 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. As well as the IS performs, Lexus engineers demanded much more of the all-new IS-F. The result is a performance tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine, topped with specially engineered heads fed by a two-stage intake system, that produces 400-plus horsepower and more than 350 ft.-lbs. of torque. The all-new IS-F is equipped with engine-oil and transmission-fluid coolers for high-speed performance and a cylinder head-scavenging oil pump for high g-force driving.

The IS-F engine is mated to the world's first eight-speed direct sport-shift transmission. A new torque-converter lock-up control was developed that allows for a direct, crisp gear change through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in second through eighth gears. In Drive mode, the IS-F transmission performs with great smoothness, and the torque converter allows for great launch ability for fast standing-start acceleration that will register a zero-to-60 time in less than 4.9 seconds.

This unique transmission also features an advanced Manual mode. A pair of paddles located within a fingertip's reach behind the steering wheel enables the driver to make ultra-fast up-shift gear changes within a tenth of a second. Downshifts are accompanied by automated and incredibly precise throttle blips to match engine RPM to vehicle speed.

The impressive acceleration achieved by the IS-F requires it be equipped with heavy-duty Brembo brakes designed to the specifications of the Lexus engineering team. Huge, 14.2-inch cross-drilled front discs are gripped by rigid, powerful six-piston aluminum calipers, while 13.6-inch rear cross-drilled discs feature two-piston calipers. High-friction brake pads are equipped on all four wheels. The brakes are finished with the Lexus name displayed on the calipers, a first for a Lexus production vehicle.

The IS-F features custom-designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels as standard. The wheels were built to Lexus specifications by BBS and are surrounded by high-performance sport tires.

The attention to performance also extends to a modified suspension that lowers the entire car by more than a half-inch when compared to the base IS, and one full inch when compared to IS models equipped with 18-inch wheels. This specially modified suspension allows for an exciting and energetic drive, whether on a race track or the streets.

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.

The attention to performance is complemented by modified styling cues that differentiate the IS-F from the standard IS. Lexus engineers provided the IS-F with a dual-exhaust system and quad-tail pipes, wider front fenders, and a larger grille and rear spoiler. Both the hood and lower intake were enlarged to accommodate and cool the V8 engine.

Like the exterior, the interior of the IS-F receives unique styling with aluminized 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.

In addition to the usual Lexus standards of comfort and convenience, the interior of the IS-F features specially shaped and trimmed seats, which hold the driver comfortably and securely in place. The special sport seats are available in black or a unique high-contrast white and black trim.

"The intent of creating the IS-F was not to be a competitor to other performance-sport sedans," said Carter. "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.'"

The IS-F will arrive at Lexus dealerships in early 2008.

Lexus IS-F Preliminary Specifications

Powertrain
Engine: 5.0 Liter V8
Estimated Horsepower: More than 400
Estimated Torque: More than 350 lb.-ft.
Transmission: Eight-speed direct paddle sport shift gear box
Brakes
Large diameter cross-drilled discs
Front/Rear: 14.2 inches/13.6 inches
Opposed aluminum calipers
Front/Rear: Six piston/two piston
Wheels
Forged aluminum wheels
Front: 225/40R19 (19 x8)
Rear: 255/35R19 (19 x 9)
Performance
0-60 MPH Acceleration: Under 4.9 seconds
Fuel Economy: TBD
Emissions Rating: ULEV II
Dimensions (inches)
Overall Length: 183.5
Overall Width: 71.5
Overall Height: 55.5
Wheelbase: 107.5

xnickx - January 9, 2007 12:43 AM (GMT)
Watch out M3/M5/E55s and all other Euros :P
user posted image

Dont you just love the vents behind the front wheels

Scoope - January 9, 2007 01:37 AM (GMT)
Right, if I start saving now I should be able to afford a decent second hand one by 2012! :lol:

Trigger shift should be a whole lot of fun.


TTEETT - January 9, 2007 02:14 AM (GMT)
QUOTE
Right, if I start saving now I should be able to afford a decent second hand one by 2012! 


Yea, im guessing it will be priced at about $135-140.

QUOTE
Watch out M3/M5/E55s and all other Euros


The car is a brave move on Lexus’s part, they will find it very hard to compete with the Audi RS4, as well as the upcoming M3, and the M3 has a strong history as being the benchmark. It will take Lexus a few years to build up that kind of respect for the “F for Fast” series line up.

Would look much better in white or silver, thinking that colour looks a bit week, especially for a pre production teaser.

If I hade the money, I’d take a silver one with black wheels and a red calf interior, and put some decent tailpipes on the back!
user posted image :boink:

bmalar - January 9, 2007 03:03 AM (GMT)
I agree, that color is pretty ordinary for a pre-production teaser vehicle.

About $140k sounds about right should it ever land down under (or in NZ). It will be interesting to see what sort of reviews it receives, especially after the new V8 M3 comes out later this year.

In any case, Lexus typically provide (IMO) better value for money when comparing to BMW etc. But if they will they be able to build a competitve performance car to compete against the M/AMG/RS cars will be interesting..

Im excited.. :P

Scoope - January 9, 2007 03:07 AM (GMT)
QUOTE (bmalar @ Jan 9 2007, 03:03 PM)
I agree, that color is pretty ordinary for a pre-production teaser vehicle.

Should have been red mica. ;)

xero - January 9, 2007 03:12 AM (GMT)
I would just take a pearl colour, black rims, black and carbon interior with aluminium inserts... In two minds over the exhaust though...

:lol:

YellowIS - January 9, 2007 03:14 AM (GMT)
All I can say is...... Finally!
I'm glad all the rumors about this car were true. Twin Turbo or Supercharge that monster and there wouldn't be many cars that could stand in its way. All whilst enjoying that excellent build, superior luxury and ample room + the reliability & class that other cars can only dream about.

I wish I could buy one, maybe if I win the lotto....hmm better start buying lotto tickets.

Ps.. shouldve been yellow, no i'm not biased :lol:

xavier - January 9, 2007 05:08 AM (GMT)
i like it black, dark matt wheel and tan leather interior with dirty wood panel... B)

Dodgy guy - January 9, 2007 08:10 AM (GMT)
All i can say is freaking gorgeous <DROOL> B)

Thunderbird2 - January 12, 2007 04:15 AM (GMT)
Taken from the Top Gear Website:

<drool>

The big news for Lexus at Detroit is that it's going after M3 and RS4 territory with a new 400-plus bhp IS-F.



And the firm seems pretty serious about it too - engineers have squeezed in a 5.0-litre V8 with an all-new eight-speed paddleshift gearbox and launch control, which is said to help serve up 60mph in less than 4.9 seconds.



Uprated, lowered suspension and bigger cross-drilled Brembo brakes were described in the press conference as 'track-ready' (the car was developed at the Fuji Speedway), and modifications to the traction control system allow you to drive the car harder before it steps in to mop up your mess - or you can turn the thing off completely.



Pumped-up bodywork (the bonnet had to be reprofiled to fit the engine in), quad exhaust tailpipes and 19-inch BBS alloys complete the package.



The IS-F will arrive in the UK in 2008 as the first Lexus to bear the company's new 'F' high-performance branding.



Lexus also revealed an updated version of the LF-A concept that first broke cover here in Detroit two years ago. The design has been updated and, we're told, is much closer to production than its predecessor.



The 500bhp V10 LF-A has also seen track time at the Fuji Speedway and there were heavy hints in the press conference that it will be the next car to launch with the new Lexus 'F' branding. Other cars, by the sound of it, will also follow in coming years.

</drool>

black200 - January 12, 2007 05:58 AM (GMT)
Too bad its a lexus and not an altezza :(

I'd rather have one of bmw's finest for 140k. Make that a BMW Hartege 1 series with an e39 m5 v8 upfront :D

Rwd + 500nm v8 + lightish kerbweight = sideways

YellowIS - January 18, 2007 04:53 AM (GMT)
QUOTE (black200 @ Jan 12 2007, 05:58 PM)
Rwd + 500nm v8 + lightish kerbweight = sideways

= fun :lol:

Thunderbird2 - February 7, 2007 07:44 AM (GMT)
"That's beautiful, beautiful"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVjD1C1PEqQ

bmalar - February 7, 2007 09:08 AM (GMT)
QUOTE (Thunderbird2 @ Feb 7 2007, 05:44 PM)
"That's beautiful, beautiful"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVjD1C1PEqQ

Man.. That sounds wicked!!!

A couple of dealers that I have been talking to reckon that we may even get the IS-F at the end of this year rather than next!!!

I have also been told by 2 different sales guys from 2 different dealerships that Aus is likely to get up to 30 LF-A's !! I'll believe that when I see it, I can't even find evidence that it is to go into production. The price point for the LF-A is rumoured to be around the $250 - $300k mark to compete against the R8, M5, M6 etc etc..

grahamd - February 7, 2007 10:02 AM (GMT)
When down in the big smoke last week I called in Lexus to order my IS-F !!!

They said released in the US later this year and to Australia by mid 2008.
They could only show me the same photos that are on the Lexus US site.

Can't wait - by mid next year my current beast will be due for an upgrade. By then I will have run out of things to do on it ready to start the next one.

LF will be comparable in price to the M5 BMW as that is the market they are chasing - very expensive.

Art - February 7, 2007 01:24 PM (GMT)
My understanding was that the IS-F was going to compete with the new BMW M3 and the Audi RS4 etc.

To price it at around $250K to $300K it would still be more expensive the the BMW M5 and more into Porsche and Ferrari territory and I don't see how it could even compare.

I personally think it will come in with a price tag of around $150k to $180K any more than that and you might as well buy the M5 or M6.

bmalar - February 7, 2007 10:13 PM (GMT)
QUOTE (Art @ Feb 7 2007, 11:24 PM)
My understanding was that the IS-F was going to compete with the new BMW M3 and the Audi RS4 etc.

To price it at around $250K to $300K it would still be more expensive the the BMW M5 and more into Porsche and Ferrari territory and I don't see how it could even compare.

I personally think it will come in with a price tag of around $150k to $180K any more than that and you might as well buy the M5 or M6.

The IS-F will be priced around the $140 - $160k mark to compete against the M3 etc.

The LF-A will be priced around $250k to compete against the M5 etc.

:)

2 different cars

bmalar - February 7, 2007 10:17 PM (GMT)
QUOTE (grahamd @ Feb 7 2007, 08:02 PM)
When down in the big smoke last week I called in Lexus to order my IS-F !!!


So you have ordered one!!???

That is gonna be a fine piece of kit!

Who do you deal with and at which dealership?

I don't know how i would ever sleep waiting 18months for a car. Any car or bike i have ever bought I struggle to sleep once i have paid the deposit, i get to excited.. haha

Art - February 8, 2007 02:15 AM (GMT)
QUOTE (bmalar @ Feb 8 2007, 10:13 AM)
QUOTE (Art @ Feb 7 2007, 11:24 PM)
My understanding was that the IS-F was going to compete with the new BMW M3 and the Audi RS4 etc.

To price it at around $250K to $300K it would still be more expensive the the BMW M5 and more into Porsche and Ferrari territory and I don't see how it could even compare.

I personally think it will come in with a price tag of around $150k to $180K any more than that and you might as well buy the M5 or M6.

The IS-F will be priced around the $140 - $160k mark to compete against the M3 etc.

The LF-A will be priced around $250k to compete against the M5 etc.

:)

2 different cars

My apologies you're right. That's what happens when you post in the middle of the night.

bmalar - July 13, 2007 12:22 AM (GMT)

Thunderbird2 - July 13, 2007 02:00 AM (GMT)
This is shaping up to be a nice car. I was at Toyota Caringbah last weekend with Glenn. Some of the Toyota bigwigs flew to Japan recently to drive this. Apparently the flappy paddle gearbox is a rather nice one, blips the throttle on downchanges, and changes hard and fast.

There were a pair of road registered TRD Aurion's there as well - wasn't permitted to take photo's though. They looked nice, with dual exhausts flush with the bodywork, which seems to be all the rage now. Silver with dark gunmetal rims.

I digress - this IS-F Sure sounds fantastic, just hope it steers like an IS should!

RE99IE - July 17, 2007 09:47 AM (GMT)

Art - August 15, 2007 12:35 PM (GMT)

greeneyes - August 15, 2007 11:39 PM (GMT)
well, it will probably cost them $10 more max to make than an IS250...

The rest is all profit!

I'd put an extra $3000 to turn the V6 into the V8, maybe the same for the gearbox, and the rest for cosmetics..

beerbaron - August 16, 2007 12:35 AM (GMT)
shame, they could make it so much more cheaper and affordable
but i guess giving it the high price tag makes it exclusive

on a side note
went for a drive in an e46 m3 last night

gobsmacked !

Art - August 16, 2007 03:23 AM (GMT)
They should have released the IS350 here in Australia as well. I would have definitely got one instead of the IS250.





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