http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/videos/spysho...xus_is_500.html

 

They need a sport mode for the exhaust to uncork that motor. I'm wondering what the HP output is going to be of the 5.0L derivative of the 380hp 4.6 that's in the new LS460? It better be in the 420+hp range to compete with the new M3, RS4, etc.

ALSO, LEXUS, MAKE DAMN SURE THERE IS A NICE GETRAG OR BORG-WARNER SIX-SPEED MANUAL.

 

specs for the car was already released and there is no 6 spd manual but a 8 spd automatic with f1 style paddles. i know the lexus tranny won't be a smg but i have a feeling their projected 4.9 sec to 60 is very underrated because the 350 does it in 4.9 to 5.5. i'm thinking the IS-F can do low to mid 4 to 60 especially with a computer doing the shifting.

also, anyone know if the IS-F has a staggered wheel and tire set up? can't really tell from the auto show pictures.

 

Sounds good, and looks great with those wheels. I wish they would throw in a manual for those who would prefer it though. You guys should check out that 3 series convertible test. The driver was really wringing that thing out on the track. Sounded pretty sweet also.

 

I am thinking the gearing might require the IS-F to hit 3rd gear to get to 60 MPH, so its 0-60 time might not be optimal? Even then, I'd expect it to be able to do it in 4.5 sec. Its 1/4 mi. trap speed will be outstanding, and that's what I usually go by anyhow.

Wheels are forged BBS. Its setup will be 19x8, 225F; 19x9, 255R. Tires are too thin to handle the HP/TQ, imo, but that could change in the production model. There's certainly room in the wheel well to fit wider tires. Or maybe they are doing that just to pass the gas guzzler tax hurdle, who knows...

It is also said that the IS-F will be 1" lower than the regular IS. The IS-F in demo pictures are dropped at least 1.5 - 2". I don't think the production model will be as low as shown in pictures, but again, mo.

 

The video's sound is too distorted to hear the engine, but it certainly sounds like a deep V8, which it is.

 

That looks, sounds and feels just like my IS350 sport on the track. Dont let the Lexus haters fool you around here. Thats what the car can do on the track in sport form. It may shock some people becasue they just havent seen it.

 

should be another heavy, numb, understeering pig like all Lexus cars with 0 road feel.

No way in hell this thing comes close to the fun factor of an M3.

 

^^^ i agree....unless they make really drastic changes from the 350. The 350 had absoloutely no road feel and understeered like a mofo not to mention its weight but which was not a factor since it had so much power.

 

I agree the 350 does accelerate well but it's too smooth for my taste and the automatic ruins everything. It doesn't feel as mechanical and connected to the road as a BMW.

It reminds me more of a Mercedes. Nice power, luxurious but not intended to give the driver feedback.

How I wish Honda would make a RWD coupe car.....They would make money of it for sure because people already but Hondas for reliability. If they could make a RWD Accord Coupe V6 they would take away BMW sales for people who want more sport.

Imagine a 300HP RWD V6 Honda sports coupe with a slick 6 speed tranny.....