Pros: Japanese engineered performance to challenge comparable models from BMW’s M division and the AMG branch of Mercedes-Benz, the Lexus IS-F enters 2014 with a familiar high-powered punch. This four-door sedan will accommodate four adults and seeks to thrill discerning driving enthusiasts with its track-validated chassis and powertrain, as well as exceptionally potent styling.
The market’s latest communications and connectivity technologies are on board, as are numerous luxury touches expected of the brand. Blending luxury, quality and performance have made the IS-F -- nicknamed The Beast -- a popular choice in its segment.
Cons: The IS-F is a high-performance variant of a sensible luxury sedan, so expect elevated purchase prices, insurance, and fuel bills. Also, because it’s built on the now last-generation IS platform, it’s beginning to show its age.
2014 Lexus IS-F Pricing: The 2014 Lexus IS-F starts at $73,900 and offers numerous options and packages to fine-tune it to individual tastes and budgets.
2014 Lexus IS-F Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is rated at 13L/100km during city driving, and 8.5L/100km during highway cruising. Premium fuel is required.
Improvements and Changes: The IS-F is carried over from last year’s model with negligible changes.
Don’t Miss: The Mark Levinson audio system. To offer the market’s premier mobile listening experience, Mark Levinson audio engineers have been working exclusively with Lexus on mobile audio since 2000 -- they create systems optimized specifically to each vehicle to deliver unmatched sound quality and music reproduction. Mark Levinson audio systems put upgraded components, powerful subwoofers, and 7.1-channel surround sound audio at the Lexus driver’s disposal.
Also, be sure to note the performance enhancements, including Brembo brakes, BBS forged alloy wheels, and a Torsen limited-slip differential for maximum traction.
2014 Lexus IS-F Powertrain: Drivers can expect 0-100km/h times of under 5 seconds, thanks to a specially developed and highly tuned 5.0L V8 that delivers 416 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque. Advanced electronically driven Dual Variable Valve Timing ensures optimal power delivery at all times, while maximizing efficiency. An active air intake system boosts high rpm power and sound output, and a direct ignition system and numerous high-performance components ensure the Lexus “F” V8 powerplant is ready to perform at any prod of the throttle.
Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shift control. The powertrain can be dialed into various drive modes to suit the current conditions and driver intentions.
Safety: Advanced airbags, potent brakes and the industry’s most advanced stability and traction assist systems all work to help drivers maintain control in all situations. Standard are eight airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system, Smart Stop Technology, and an on-board first-aid kit. A backup camera, LED taillamps, and front windshield de-icer help add further confidence.
Comparables: The Lexus IS-F competes largely with the BMW M3, Mercedes C63 AMG, Cadillac CTS-V, Audi S4, and other hot-rod sedans from around the globe.
The market’s latest communications and connectivity technologies are on board, as are numerous luxury touches expected of the brand. Blending luxury, quality and performance have made the IS-F -- nicknamed The Beast -- a popular choice in its segment.
Cons: The IS-F is a high-performance variant of a sensible luxury sedan, so expect elevated purchase prices, insurance, and fuel bills. Also, because it’s built on the now last-generation IS platform, it’s beginning to show its age.
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2014 Lexus IS-F Pricing: The 2014 Lexus IS-F starts at $73,900 and offers numerous options and packages to fine-tune it to individual tastes and budgets.
2014 Lexus IS-F Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is rated at 13L/100km during city driving, and 8.5L/100km during highway cruising. Premium fuel is required.
Improvements and Changes: The IS-F is carried over from last year’s model with negligible changes.
Don’t Miss: The Mark Levinson audio system. To offer the market’s premier mobile listening experience, Mark Levinson audio engineers have been working exclusively with Lexus on mobile audio since 2000 -- they create systems optimized specifically to each vehicle to deliver unmatched sound quality and music reproduction. Mark Levinson audio systems put upgraded components, powerful subwoofers, and 7.1-channel surround sound audio at the Lexus driver’s disposal.
Also, be sure to note the performance enhancements, including Brembo brakes, BBS forged alloy wheels, and a Torsen limited-slip differential for maximum traction.
2014 Lexus IS-F Powertrain: Drivers can expect 0-100km/h times of under 5 seconds, thanks to a specially developed and highly tuned 5.0L V8 that delivers 416 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque. Advanced electronically driven Dual Variable Valve Timing ensures optimal power delivery at all times, while maximizing efficiency. An active air intake system boosts high rpm power and sound output, and a direct ignition system and numerous high-performance components ensure the Lexus “F” V8 powerplant is ready to perform at any prod of the throttle.
Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shift control. The powertrain can be dialed into various drive modes to suit the current conditions and driver intentions.
Safety: Advanced airbags, potent brakes and the industry’s most advanced stability and traction assist systems all work to help drivers maintain control in all situations. Standard are eight airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system, Smart Stop Technology, and an on-board first-aid kit. A backup camera, LED taillamps, and front windshield de-icer help add further confidence.
Comparables: The Lexus IS-F competes largely with the BMW M3, Mercedes C63 AMG, Cadillac CTS-V, Audi S4, and other hot-rod sedans from around the globe.
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| Photo: Lexus |
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