Lexus IS F (08 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
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

Safety

The Lexus IS F benefits from the same active, passive and preventive safety equipment that earned the regular IS a five-star Euro NCAP rating and comes with ten airbags as standard. In addition, it benefits from substantially larger and more powerful brakes, to provide appropriate stopping performance in line with its greater power. It also features adaptive cruise control, which maintains a safe, pre-set distance from the vehicle in front as well as a Pre-Crash Safety system (or PCS) to predict when an accident is unavoidable. In certain cases it will tighten seatbelts to draw passengers into the safest position and trigger the brake assistance for maximum braking power. In the back are two Isofix points.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5
  • Child Protection Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

Lexus enjoys an enviable reputation for build quality and reliability and the IS F feels as equally well built as the firms other models. As with any high-performance vehicle, regular servicing is vital.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.