Lexus IS-F

Lexus has never really been viewed as a high-performance auto maker that would compete with the likes of BMW’s ‘M’ models or Mercedes’ AMG. But at the 2007 North American International Auto Show, Lexus made a statement by revealing the IS-F as the first vehicle of the company’s high-performance F-Sport lineup. The ‘F’ badge, which stands for Fuji Speedway, will find its way on the GS sedan after the market debut of the Lexus IS-F.

Powered by a 5.0L direct-injection V8 engine, the Lexus IS-F produces 416 horsepower with a peak torque of 371 lb-ft. 0-62 comes in at 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 200mph. Lexus is also rumored to be working on a lighter and faster IS-F model dubbed the IS-F/R. Power for the IS-F/R is expected to come from a 5.0 liter V8 engine that pumps out 429 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Weight is expected to be dropped by 220 pounds through the use of some carbon fiber on the body along with a stripped down interior.
The Lexus IS-F went on sale in Japan on December 25th with a starting price of 7.66 million ($65,742). Globally, Lexus hopes to sell 7,000 units next year, 5,500 of those are estimated to come from the U.S.