Lexus ISF
Coming Soon To Win Your New Car – Bid To Win A New Lexus ISF
As with many performance vehicles, the centerpiece of the Lexus-ISF is it’s engine – a sonorous 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering 416 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 371 pound-feet of torque at 5200 rpm. This motor is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that features a unique torque-converter lock-up control that allows for direct, crisp gear changes through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in the second through eighth gears.
In Drive mode, the IS-F transmission performs smoothly, and the torque converter allows for quick zero to 60 mph acceleration of 4.6 seconds. The transmission also features a manual mode operated via a pair of paddles. Downshifts are accompanied by automated throttle blips to match engine RPM to vehicle speed.
Despite the IS F’s high-performance nature, it still delivers decent fuel economy: 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA.
Heavy-duty Brembo brakes with 14.2-inch discs and six-piston calipers ensure all the power is kept under control. The IS-F features custom-designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels with 225/40R19 sized rubber up front and 255/35R19 at the rear as standard.
Lexus claims the IS-F can hit a top speed of over 185 mph, though the U.S. version is limited to 168 mph.
While the IS F was criticized for an overly harsh ride when it first launched, Lexus has since addressed that issue with a retuned suspension while also adding an updated electronic power steering system and a Torsen rear differential. Increased spring and damper rates and larger-diameter stabilizer bars midway through the production run helped create especially crisp and responsive handling.