A big V8?
The 2008 Lexus IS F boasts a 5.0-liter aluminum V8 producing 416 horsepower and 371 pounds-feet of torque. That's an awful lot... but is it enough? Accelerations are affected by the significant weight of the machine. While the company claims a time of 4.6 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, I personally averaged 6.7 seconds.

The transmission is quite simply one of nature's true wonders. This 8-speed autobox with Sport Direct Shift Control can operate either on its own or with the driver's assistance through the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Gear shifts are extremely smooth yet sharp, allowing convincing accelerations and decelerations. Also, when downshifting, the perfect timing between the engine revolutions and transmission gives a dynamic boost for aggressive driving.

There's still work to do with regard to handling.

The steering is typically Japanese, meaning it's not quite on par with the Germans. I found it precise and comfortable for sure, but the wheel somewhat lacks a dynamic feel. Likewise, there's still work to do with regard to handling. The 54/46 distribution of the 2,113-kilogram overall weight makes the IS F a bit less lively upon entering corners, especially when compared to the Mercedes C63 and BMW M3.

On the other hand, oversteer fades out at mid-corner, allowing you to regain your momentum quickly for brisk corner exits. The brakes are nicely calibrated and as competent as one could wish; it took me 39 meters to stop from 100 to 0 km/h.

World-class opposition
Not bad for a first foray into the highly-exclusive, high-performance sports sedan market. Of course, Lexus faces some pretty stiff competition, led by the BMW M3 (414 hp, 295 lb-ft, $69,900), Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (451 hp, 443 lb-ft, $63,500) and Audi RS4 (420 hp, 317 lb-ft, $94,200). Let's not forget the soon-to-be-introduced 2009 Cadillac CTS-v (550 hp, 550 lb-ft, about $70,000).

Conclusion
The 2008 Lexus IS F displays undeniable sportiness and many other great qualities. However, when pitted against segment leaders, the gap is so significant that it's hard to make a case for the Japanese.

Unlike other Lexus products, most of which are cheaper than rivals, the IS F ($64,400) plays in the same ballpark. This is a true high-performance car; however, it seems to focus too much on comfort and features, and not enough of driving excitement.


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux, Matthieu Lambert