Lexus IS F (08 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on 30 May 2008

Last Updated: 14 July 2010

Lexus is better known for luxury and refinement rather than performance so the IS F represents a first for the Japanese company. The hardcore saloon is designed to take on the likes of the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG and with a 5.0-litre V8 under the bonnet it certainly has the right credentials. Like its German rivals it has a rear-wheel drive set-up but it's not as engaging to drive nor does it have the same badge kudos - it's also pricey. However with limited numbers coming to the UK exclusivity is assured. In 2010 Lexus updated the IS-F with new interior options including new sat nav system and white leather, a new metallic blue colour option and a limited slip differential that is ideal for track day driving.

4 out of 5

Other Lexus reviews

4 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£58,416 - £59,436

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Used price range:

£22,736 - £46,928

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Astonishing pace, great V8 soundtrack, plenty of standard kit

Doesn't look particularly aggressive, hard ride, not involving enough

Driving & Performance

Performance

4.5 out of 5
"Underneath that bulging bonnet sits a 5.0-litre V8 unit which delivers 417bhp, making it the most..."
Handling

3.5 out of 5
"This is where the IS F fails to rival its German competitors - while the pace and noise are..."

Comfort

Comfort

3 out of 5
"You don't buy a car like this if comfort is your priority and the ride is as firm as you'd expect -..."
Practicality

3 out of 5
"Like the standard IS there's a severe lack of foot and legroom for rear passengers and adults will..."
Equipment

4.5 out of 5
"There's only one trim level which mirrors the IS SE-L grade and consequently pretty much everything..."
Behind the wheel

4 out of 5
"If you're after some exciting sporty cues then prepare to be disappointed. Despite being the high..."

Costs

Running costs

2 out of 5
"The IS F is certainly not cheap with a new price tag of more than £50,000 and running costs are just..."
Green credentials

1.5 out of 5
"With CO2 emissions of 270g/km the IS F is a big polluter but still cleaner than the Mercedes C63 AMG..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

4 out of 5
"The Lexus IS F benefits from the same active, passive and preventive safety equipment that earned..."
Reliability

4 out of 5
"Lexus enjoys an enviable reputation for build quality and reliability and the IS F feels as equally..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

2.5 out of 5
"Original numbers were limited so getting any kind of discount was tricky, but with a price tag close..."
Buying used

3 out of 5
"As a high performance saloon the IS F is likely to be subjected to some form of abuse during its..."
Selling

4 out of 5
"It may not have any heritage but there aren't loads of examples around either. Realistic valued cars..."