Speed
Plant your foot and the 8-speed automatic transmission shifts cleanly and at near dual-clutch speeds. A warning beeper requests upshifts before fuel cut-off in manual mode. Grab second gear with the revs maxed out in first, and the IS F's rear end lets out a delightful squeal and squirms around as the tires fight to regain grip.

The engine only drinks premium fuel, at a rate averaging about 11.5L / 100 km once you've gotten the scrumptious V8 sound effects out of your system. Acceleration is dangerously quick- with quarter mile runs in the low 13 second range.

It's not the quickest machine in its group, though it delivers speed in excess of what any four-door car needs. It's an absolute giggle-eliciting riot.

On the track- or the road
The IS F doesn't sound or accelerate like a Lexus as we know them, and it doesn't ride like one either. With its slammed and track-ready suspension, it's a car that slaughters corners with a grin on its face- though it can feel like it's got similar intentions for your spine. Engineers have dialed in a teensy hint of softness around the edges, but some may find the ride to enter the realm of discomfort on rougher roads.

With its slammed and track-ready suspension, it's a car that slaughters corners with a grin on its face.

If you plan on joining some weekend lapping days, you'll appreciate the aggression. If not, you'll probably find it a little harsh.

Steering is heavy yet sharp, though assisted well enough during low speeds to make parking relatively easy. IS F's front reacts quickly to driver requests, the taut body following closely in line. Steering precision and speed are rewarding, though feedback is slightly below expectations.

Braking is a similar story. Brutally quick, fade-free stops come one after the other, though pedal feel is slightly lacking compared to the competition. The standard IS's brakes offered notably better feel than the giant Brembos found here.

Gimmie an F?
If you can put up with the IS F's track-rat ride, you'll find sufficient levels of grip, acceleration and stopping power to entertain yourself on public roads or put down some great lap-times on a track.

99 percent of the average IS F's driving will be in real-world situations- with other motorists, pedestrians and speed limits. In said situations, you'll come nowhere near exploiting the car's potential with any hope of keeping your license.

The tester was loaded at $68,000 which you'll find relatively reasonable after adding up the performance numbers and features. Consider it entry-level pricing for the "F" badge- because Lexus says more of their vehicles will soon be wearing it.

For a brand that did not make hot-rods before, it's a heck of a first attempt.


Photo Credit : Justin Pritchard