IS/RC Official Lexus IS-F Thread (Pics & Info)

[Centurion]

What is Lexus trying to do here, tune it for more hp at the last minute?

M

Lol. They are most likely busy trying out the new M3 and C63 for inspiration before letting their own kitten out the door.

 

[Osnabrueck]

I've been watching the ClubLexus forums closely for sometime and some of those statistics (particularly the part of the production) have been mentioned on numerous occassions.

Still, most everything is unofficial at the moment. And let me tell you, this whole waiting for official specifications over the last 9 some months is really starting to piss off the majority of Lexus enthusiasts/loyalists. Even I am getting real fed-up with the whole thing. Enough is enough, stop dicking around and release the final specifications.

It's like releasing the specs of the next Super-Nintendo.

Believe me Bruce - since I'm involved with the IS F marketing push, the issue of releasing official specs on this car is dicey - especially since this car is the debut effort for the Lexus F brand. Yes, you may be fed up, but you also have to consider that the IS F is firmly planted in the prelaunch phase of its introduction. Everything up to this point is merely a teaser trailer - firm details will emerge in about a month from now.

 

[Bruce]

It's like releasing the specs of the next Super-Nintendo.

Believe me Bruce - since I'm involved with the IS F marketing push, the issue of releasing official specs on this car is dicey - especially since this car is the debut effort for the Lexus F brand. Yes, you may be fed up, but you also have to consider that the IS F is firmly planted in the prelaunch phase of its introduction. Everything up to this point is merely a teaser trailer - firm details will emerge in about a month from now.

Appriecate the response Josh.

Don't get me wrong, I do realize this is a big event for Lexus (how could it not be!?), but my patience (as well as others) is starting to wear thin.

But I'm sure I'll stop bitching once the car is eventually released. That video that Martin posted (on Laguna) helps comfort me. Lol...

 

[Bruce]

Lexus updated the IS-F section of their website: Lexus IS-F

Included are new videos and photos.

Top speed is 168mph!

View attachment 79e83c8fc2cd6a7b5baf8cf2a9011219.jpg

View attachment bfa74da2e07d640a38df57332cf4afbf.jpg

Really love the interior:

 

[Monster]

View attachment bfa74da2e07d640a38df57332cf4afbf.jpg

Really love the interior:

Silver or grey is the worst colour for the IS-F. The bonnet is really really I mean really ugly. Does the V8 really sit that high within the engine bay to require such an odd bonnet shape? Can't they just simply have a bonnet dome like the M3?

I am still not fan of the side vents, it looks like someone has slashed the bodywork open with a chainsaw.

The interior looks better than the normal IS version but I have mentioned before the reasons why I don't find it attractive.

 

[Bruce]

Silver or grey is the worst colour for the IS-F.

I dunno about that, but I would agree that the car would be better presented in Matador Red or such.

The bonnet is really really I mean really ugly. Does the V8 really sit that high within the engine bay to require such an odd bonnet shape? Can't they just simply have a bonnet dome like the M3?

I will grant you that it looks massively misportioned in that profile shot. Looks a little like a World War 2 U-Boat... Lol

In other pictures though, I am given the impression that it looks rather subtle; certainly more integrated and flowing with the body work than it would appear in that photo.

Quite frankly, I'm at a loss at the moment. Need to see one in the flesh to make my final descision.

The interior looks better than the normal IS version but I have mentioned before the reasons why I don't find it attractive.

Ahh really? Each his own.

I'm quite a fan.

 

[cawimmer430]

No offense, but this car still has RICE written all over it. This might be fine for a mainstream performance car market like where the EVO and WRX compete, but I think luxury clientele, especially Lexus, are more conservative. Of course the IS is a Lexus that appeals to younger buyers but it still looks like RICE.

Can't wait to see one in The Fast and The Furious: TOKYO DRIFT II!

 

[bmer]

1. Performance that Can Maximize Driving Pleasure

* The newly developed 5.0-liter V8 engine is a D-4S (direct injection four-stroke gasoline engine, superior version) that combines both port and direct fuel injection. Advanced technologies, including electric motor-driven VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system by Electric motor) on the intake side of the Dual VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system), maximize the performance of the engine. This naturally aspirated engine provides a feeling of linear acceleration, high acceleration response and powerful, enjoyable acceleration even at high engine speeds.

* By adopting the dual-intake system, the IS F provides smooth and even torque at low or medium engine speeds and high torque with both air inlets open at high engine speeds. In addition, the engine sound goes through three transitions in line with rpm to offer true sports car stimulation.


Engine Specifications
Model 2UR-GSE
Type V8 DOHC
Displacement [cc] 4,968
Bore x stroke [mm] 94.0 x 89.5
Fuel supply system D-4S (direct fuel injection + port fuel injection)
Fuel type Premium unleaded gasoline
Compression ratio 11.8:1
Maximum output [kW (PS) / rpm] 311 (423) / 6,600
Maximum torque [N-m (kg-m) / rpm] 505 (51.5) / 5,200
Exhaust emissions levels compared to the Japanese 2005 standards1 75% lower
Fuel efficiency in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle2 [km/l] 8.2
1. Specified under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's (MLIT) Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles
2. Outlined by MLIT

* The 8-Speed Sport Direct Shift transmission is based on the eight-speed automatic transmission used on the LS460 series, with electronic control technology that provides the benefits of both the smooth shifting of an automatic transmission for comfortable driving and a full-scale, sporty manual transmission that does not need a clutch — which is without precedent anywhere in the world* for an eight-speed transmission. The two-pedal sports transmission also offers new value and perfectly suits a premium sports car. In addition to smooth shifting when the lever is in "D", the torque converter allows smooth and powerful acceleration when starting up in first-gear by putting the lever in "M". In gears two through eight, the direct connection between the engine and the transmission results in direct acceleration response. While achieving one of the fastest gear-change responses in the world, the transmission also has a blipping (revving) control feature that—in the fashion of the heel and toe technique used by race drivers—automatically increases engine rotation speed during downshifts to avoid downshift jolts. In addition, the IS F also features a special paddle shifter that can be operated without the need to remove one’s hand from the steering wheel.

* The springs, shock absorbers, stabilizers and other parts have been optimally tuned for an exclusive suspension that is based on the IS series suspension, which provides both outstanding stability and a feeling of agility. The vehicle offers excellent cruising performance that is capable of handling race circuits.

* In addition to 19-inch forged aluminum wheels that are both strong and light, the IS F uses large-diameter, wide 225/40R19 tires at the front and 255/35R19 tires at the rear for superior gripping performance, excellent handling and cruising stability.

* The IS F has high-performance brakes that can withstand even extreme braking on race circuits.

* The VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) system stabilizes the vehicle by coordinating control and achieving an optimum balance between drive power, steering and braking, thus allowing high preventive safety. The IS F's VDIM has a "sports" mode that ensures safety while maximizing vehicle performance.

* As of September 2007, according to a TMC survey


2. Interior and Exterior Designs and Exclusive Equipment Appeal to a Sports Car Mindset

* The hood, grille, front fenders and front and rear bumpers, rocker panel molding, rear spoiler and other elements were designed exclusively for the IS F based on the Lexus design philosophy "L-finesse"*. The exterior styling has a dynamic yet simple form that expresses the vehicle's cruising performance and functionality.

* The sharply contrasted interior uses the colors black and white with blue accents that are exquisitely placed. The center console and armrests feature special ornamentation.

* The gauges have an exclusive metal ring achieved through cutting work. The gauge needles feature blue LEDs and a speedometer that goes up to 300km/h. (Vehicles with domestic specifications have a function to limit speeds that activates at 180km/h.)

* The four sports-car-style seats emphasize a degree of holding power that can withstand cruising on race circuits.

* The 14-speaker Mark Levinson® premium surround-sound audio system has been tuned specifically for the IS F (optional on all vehicles in the series).

*Created by combining "leading-edge" and "finesse" design concepts


3. Class-leading Safety and Environmental Performance*

* The Pre-crash Safety System, which uses millimeter-wave radar, warns drivers that a front-end collision is imminent and works to reduce injury if an accident occurs (optional on all vehicles in the series).

* Along with an impact-absorbing body and strong cabin, the IS F achieves further contributions to class-leading safety performance through dual-stage SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags for the driver and front passenger seat (SRS twin-chamber airbag for the front passenger seat); SRS knee airbags for the driver and front passenger seat; SRS side airbags for the driver and front passenger seat; and SRS curtain shield airbags for both front and rear seats.

* Efforts were made to improve fuel efficiency in order to reduce CO2 emissions. The vehicle boasts a fuel efficiency of 8.2km/l in the 10-15 test cycle outlined by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT) with CO2 emissions under the test cycle just 283g/km. Both NOx (nitrogen oxides) and NMHC (non-methane hydrocarbons) have also been reduced, achieving emissions levels 75% lower than the 2005 standards under the MLIT's Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles.

* The IS F benefits from Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System) — Toyota's original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system — achieving overall reduction of environmental impact throughout the vehicle's entire lifecycle. Environmental targets were set in the initial vehicle development stage and a life cycle assessment was carried out to achieve a reduction of air contaminants and CO2, etc., throughout all stages of the vehicle's life from production and use to disposal.

* In addition to using highly recyclable materials, greater attention has been paid to the environment by, among other means, reducing the use of substances of concern such as lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium, achieving the Japanese automobile industry's voluntary goals of eliminating the use of these substances.

*Compared to vehicles of similar engine displacement

 

[bmer]

Press Release: TOYOTA: News Releases

 

[Merc1]

Works out to about 417hp for the U.S. market. I don't see it being the leading sprinter in the class.

M

 

[Centurion]

Works out to about 417hp for the U.S. market. I don't see it being the leading sprinter in the class.

M

The power is actually not that bad what I'm curious about now is the price. For people even to consider it will have to be priced at the very low 50k spectrum, or perhaps even less. The RS4 is banging, the M3 sedan will be a blast and the C-class AMG is better than ever. IS-F(lop) is going to have a tough time leeching customers from the Germans.


BTW shame on Lexus for presenting the power in ps trying to confuse consumers that it's more powerful than the M3 and RS4.

 

[bmer]

I don't think Lexus officials are actually expecting to beat the Germans with the IS-F. It's their first car in this category that the M3 has dominated for two decades. But it's one hell of a first try nonetheless. More important than the outcome against the Germans is the difference what it makes for Lexus' image.

BTW shame on Lexus for presenting the power in ps trying to confuse consumers that it's more powerful than the M3 and RS4.

Actually it has more power. 311 kW (IS-F) vs. 309 kW (M3, RS4).

 

[Merc1]

Lexus launched its IS-F in Japan, finally !

Finally! Yes, Finally, we will have the chance in Japan and at NihonCar.com to test drive one of the most awaited Lexus cars since the launch of the IS series... With a 5l V8 engine which develops 400hp, Toyota is hoping to bring to the market a good alternative to the M3... Well, we will see that on the tarmac !

The all-new 2008 IS-F high-performance luxury sedan will deliver more than 400 horsepower from a 5.0-liter V8 engine when it goes into production.

IS-F Performance Sedan

Much of the development of the new IS-F took place at Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan. The IS-F is based on the proven rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS, which is equipped with a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. As well as the IS performs, Lexus engineers demanded much more of the all-new IS-F. The result is a performance tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine, topped with specially engineered heads fed by a two-stage intake system, that produces 400-plus horsepower and more than 350 ft.-lbs. of torque. The all-new IS-F is equipped with engine-oil and transmission-fluid coolers for high-speed performance and a cylinder head-scavenging oil pump for high g-force driving.

The IS-F engine is mated to the world’s first eight-speed direct sport-shift transmission. A new torque-converter lock-up control was developed that allows for a direct, crisp gear change through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in second through eighth gears. In Drive mode, the IS-F transmission performs with great smoothness, and the torque converter allows for great launch ability for fast standing-start acceleration that will register a zero-to-60 time in less than 4.9 seconds.

This unique transmission also features an advanced Manual mode. A pair of paddles located within a fingertip’s reach behind the steering wheel enables the driver to make ultra-fast up-shift gear changes within a tenth of a second. Downshifts are accompanied by automated and incredibly precise throttle blips to match engine RPM to vehicle speed.

The impressive acceleration achieved by the IS-F requires it be equipped with heavy-duty Brembo brakes designed to the specifications of the Lexus engineering team. Huge, 14.2-inch perforated front discs are gripped by rigid, powerful six-piston aluminum calipers, while 13.6-inch rear perforated discs feature two-piston calipers. High-friction brake pads are equipped on all four wheels. The brakes are finished with the Lexus name displayed on the calipers, a first for a Lexus production vehicle.

The IS-F features custom-designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels as standard. The wheels were built to Lexus specifications by BBS and are surrounded by high-performance sport tires.


Lexus launched its IS-F in Japan, finally ! : Nihon Car .com


M

 

[EnI]

Actually it has more power. 311 kW (IS-F) vs. 309 kW (M3, RS4).

So, 423HP vs 420HP.

WOW!

 

[bmer]

Yeh, the 505 Nm (101 Nm/l) torque is much more impressive.

 

[siko]

Official press release regarding Japan launch...



PRESS RELEASE:
Lexus Launches 'IS F' in Japan

TOKYO, May 17, 2007 - Lexus announced today that it will begin sales in Japan, starting on December 25, of the "IS F"*.

The IS F is a Lexus "F" premium sports car based on the concept of proposing a new level of performance for Lexus through a refinement of basic performance with the addition of new cruising technology. The vehicle was developed to pursue, to the fullest extent possible, the "joy of driving" - which is one of the fundamental appeals of the automobile - by responding reliably and performing as intended.

Based on the IS series, the IS F boasts a completely new engine and transmission, an exclusive suspension and specially selected aluminum wheels and tires. The vehicle was tested extensively on race circuits in Japan and overseas, including Fuji Speedway, in order to demonstrate its full potential. Detailed attention to the responsiveness of the acceleration, gear shifting, steering and brakes, as well as to the actual experience of quality (such as engine sound and the sensation of acceleration), has created a new type of driving pleasure - not just for the driver but for passengers as well - thus expressing the emotional appeal of the Lexus brand.

* Based on the idea of creating a vehicle that can run on various types of roads, the vehicle was extensively tested on race circuits, including Higashifuji Technical Center and Fuji Speedway. The "F" in the IS F name comes from the "F" in "Fuji Speedway".

Note: Products described in this and in any attached materials are for the Japanese market only.

Monthly Sales Target (in Japan):
40 units

Assembly Plant :
Tahara Plant, Toyota Motor Corporation

• Model: IS F
• Engine: 2UR-GSE
• Powertrain: 5.0-liter V8, Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
• Transmission: 8-Speed Sport Direct Shift
• Price (including consumption tax)*: 7,660,000

* Excluding recycling fees

Vehicle Outline

1. Performance that Can Maximize Driving Pleasure

The newly developed 5.0-liter V8 engine is a D-4S (direct injection four-stroke gasoline engine, superior version) that combines both port and direct fuel injection. Advanced technologies, including electric motor-driven VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system by Electric motor) on the intake side of the Dual VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system), maximize the performance of the engine. This naturally aspirated engine provides a feeling of linear acceleration, high acceleration response and powerful, enjoyable acceleration even at high engine speeds.

By adopting the dual-intake system, the IS F provides smooth and even torque at low or medium engine speeds and high torque with both air inlets open at high engine speeds. In addition, the engine sound goes through three transitions in line with rpm to offer true sports car stimulation.

Engine Specifications

• Model: 2UR-GSE
• Type: V8 DOHC
• Displacement [cc]: 4,968
• Bore x stroke [mm]: 94.0 x 89.5
• Fuel supply system: D-4S (direct fuel injection + port fuel injection)
• Fuel type: Premium unleaded gasoline
• Compression ratio: 11.8:1
• Maximum output [kW (PS) / rpm]: 311 (423) / 6,600
• Maximum torque [N-m (kg-m) / rpm]: 505 (51.5) / 5,200
• Exhaust emissions levels compared to the Japanese 2005 standards(1): 75% lower
• Fuel efficiency in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle(2) [km/l]: 8.2

1. Specified under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's (MLIT) Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles
2. Outlined by MLIT

The 8-Speed Sport Direct Shift transmission is based on the eight-speed automatic transmission used on the LS460 series, with electronic control technology that provides the benefits of both the smooth shifting of an automatic transmission for comfortable driving and a full-scale, sporty manual transmission that does not need a clutch - which is without precedent anywhere in the world* for an eight-speed transmission. The two-pedal sports transmission also offers new value and perfectly suits a premium sports car. In addition to smooth shifting when the lever is in "D", the torque converter allows smooth and powerful acceleration when starting up in first-gear by putting the lever in "M". In gears two through eight, the direct connection between the engine and the transmission results in direct acceleration response. While achieving one of the fastest gear-change responses in the world, the transmission also has a blipping (revving) control feature that-in the fashion of the heel and toe technique used by race drivers-automatically increases engine rotation speed during downshifts to avoid downshift jolts. In addition, the IS F also features a special paddle shifter that can be operated without the need to remove one's hand from the steering wheel.

The springs, shock absorbers, stabilizers and other parts have been optimally tuned for an exclusive suspension that is based on the IS series suspension, which provides both outstanding stability and a feeling of agility. The vehicle offers excellent cruising performance that is capable of handling race circuits.

In addition to 19-inch forged aluminum wheels that are both strong and light, the IS F uses large-diameter, wide 225/40R19 tires at the front and 255/35R19 tires at the rear for superior gripping performance, excellent handling and cruising stability.

The IS F has high-performance brakes that can withstand even extreme braking on race circuits.

The VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) system stabilizes the vehicle by coordinating control and achieving an optimum balance between drive power, steering and braking, thus allowing high preventive safety. The IS F's VDIM has a "sports" mode that ensures safety while maximizing vehicle performance.

* As of September 2007, according to a TMC survey


2. Interior and Exterior Designs and Exclusive Equipment Appeal to a Sports Car Mindset

The hood, grille, front fenders and front and rear bumpers, rocker panel molding, rear spoiler and other elements were designed exclusively for the IS F based on the Lexus design philosophy "L-finesse"*. The exterior styling has a dynamic yet simple form that expresses the vehicle's cruising performance and functionality.

The sharply contrasted interior uses the colors black and white with blue accents that are exquisitely placed. The center console and armrests feature special ornamentation.

The gauges have an exclusive metal ring achieved through cutting work. The gauge needles feature blue LEDs and a speedometer that goes up to 300km/h. (Vehicles with domestic specifications have a function to limit speeds that activates at 180km/h.)

The four sports-car-style seats emphasize a degree of holding power that can withstand cruising on race circuits.
The 14-speaker Mark Levinson® premium surround-sound audio system has been tuned specifically for the IS F (optional on all vehicles in the series).

*Created by combining "leading-edge" and "finesse" design concepts


3. Class-leading Safety and Environmental Performance*

The Pre-crash Safety System, which uses millimeter-wave radar, warns drivers that a front-end collision is imminent and works to reduce injury if an accident occurs (optional on all vehicles in the series).
Along with an impact-absorbing body and strong cabin, the IS F achieves further contributions to class-leading safety performance through dual-stage SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags for the driver and front passenger seat (SRS twin-chamber airbag for the front passenger seat); SRS knee airbags for the driver and front passenger seat; SRS side airbags for the driver and front passenger seat; and SRS curtain shield airbags for both front and rear seats.

Efforts were made to improve fuel efficiency in order to reduce CO2 emissions. The vehicle boasts a fuel efficiency of 8.2km/l in the 10-15 test cycle outlined by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT) with CO2 emissions under the test cycle just 283g/km. Both NOx (nitrogen oxides) and NMHC (non-methane hydrocarbons) have also been reduced, achieving emissions levels 75% lower than the 2005 standards under the MLIT's Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles.

The IS F benefits from Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System) - Toyota's original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system - achieving overall reduction of environmental impact throughout the vehicle's entire lifecycle. Environmental targets were set in the initial vehicle development stage and a life cycle assessment was carried out to achieve a reduction of air contaminants and CO2, etc., throughout all stages of the vehicle's life from production and use to disposal.

In addition to using highly recyclable materials, greater attention has been paid to the environment by, among other means, reducing the use of substances of concern such as lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium, achieving the Japanese automobile industry's voluntary goals of eliminating the use of these substances.

[Source: Lexus via AUtobog.com]

 

[bmer]

Thanks, siko. The link to the press release on Toyota's site which I posted earlier:

http://www.germancarforum.com/237698-post169.html

 

[Bruce]

It's about bloody time! Feels like I've been waiting an eternity.

Haven't any complaints about the power out put. Thanks for the stuff guys!

Now all I need some high res wallpapers.

 

[zetableh]

It may have more horsepower, but people are still gonna buy the M3 becuase of the name and the availibility of a third pedal.

 

[Centurion]

Power isn't everything. There are countless of american cars with similar power but which fail to deliver the sensation offered by the RS4 and M3. I hope that Lexus has done a good job improving the steering.