Lexus ISF

Overview

It began with a small group of Lexus engineers, all passionate motorsport enthusiasts, who wanted to build a new kind of high-performance Lexus.

On the racetrack it would forge new frontiers. Yet on public roads it would be as smooth and as comfortable as every other Lexus. Inspired by this idea, the team, led by chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi, worked autonomously from all other major Lexus development programmes, and tested their work at Japan’s Fuji Speedway. In 2003 they were able to present the IS F prototype to Lexus senior management. Based on the award-winning IS sports saloon, the vehicle they designed featured a 5.0-litre V8 engine, state-ofthe- art eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SDS) automatic transmission, race-tuned suspension and extremely powerful brakes. Its technological innovations, breathtaking performance and exciting handling characteristics generated so much enthusiasm at Lexus that the project was given the green light and the Lexus IS F was born.

At the heart of the IS F is a 5.0-litre V8 engine capable of powering the car from zero to 62mph in a phenomenal 4.8 seconds, and then to a top speed of 168mph (where permitted).

Such impressive numbers are due to the advanced, race-inspired technologies employed in the IS F. The high-flow cylinder head and titanium intake valves enable the engine to respond instantly to your commands. Heavy-duty oil and transmission fluid coolers ensure the engine can cope with the temperatures generated by high speeds, while a scavenge pump maintains oil circulation even under the extreme G-forces of high-speed cornering.

As well as being exceptionally powerful, the hand-built engine is also very smooth. High-rigidity components, the optimum balance of all moving parts, the minimisation of friction and elevated levels of assembly precision all contribute to creating an engine of remarkable refinement and quietness.

Nothing is left to chance in the pursuit of perfection. Each V8 crankshaft is tested for spinning uniformity before assembly and, where necessary, polished by hand to ensure it meets the most exacting standards for running smoothness.

Sports VDIM

Explore Your Limits
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) ensures that the enormous power of the IS F is enjoyed smoothly and safely, even when cornering at high speed.

By integrating all the braking, stability and traction control systems of the IS F within one intelligent network, VDIM offers a level of intervention that’s much smoother and more proactive than if each application had to work independently. During everyday driving on public roads VDIM improves the overall dynamic performance of the IS F and promotes smoother ‘on-the-limit’ vehicle behaviour. On the racetrack, however, you may want to test the car’s dynamic parameters, without sacrificing stability in emergencies. Just select ‘Sports VDIM’ mode: this will adjust the throttle, steering, braking and transmission settings to deliver a sportier performance, and will expand the permissible range of lateral acceleration before the VDIM system intervenes. If you’re ready to push the IS F to the peak of its dynamic capabilities, you can switch VDIM off completely.

Sports Seats

The front multi-adjustable sports seats (heated) provide excellent lateral support at high speeds, helping you to remain confidently in control of the IS F even when cornering G-forces are at their peak. In the rear, two passengers can enjoy exceptional comfort, even at high speeds, separated by a centre console that also doubles as a hatch for skis or longer items.

Taken From The Track

Eight-Speed Padel shift

A special kind of power demands a special type of transmission. The IS F introduces the world’s first production eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SDS) automatic, which achieves upshifts in just 0.1 seconds. Gear engagement and throttle response feel instantaneous throughout the rev range.