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Because of the IS F’s 4.6 second 0-100 km/h time, improvements had to be made to the suspension to accommodate the excessive performance. Aside from the 19-inch Bridgestone tires, the IS F sits lower thanks to revised shock and spring settings. The sub-frame and other key aspects, including the engine mounts of the car were stiffed. On all four corners of the IS F, massive Brembo brakes measuring 14.2 inches upfront and 13.6 inches at the back make their way. The six-piston front and two-piston rear caliper brakes are mated to a 10 inch brake booster for high confidence in extreme driving conditions.

Lexus, being Lexus, is uncompromising in the IS F’s luxury fittings. For starters, the glass used is a UV-reducing, heat-absorbing one that gives occupants utmost comfort whatever the weather. The trim is made of an aluminum composite, replacing the fuddy-duddy wood trim. The gauges are uniquely rimmed in aluminum as well and house a multi-information display that includes a dual-mode tire pressure monitoring system (for summer and winter tires). The seats have been replaced with heavily bolstered sport ones, available in the traditional black or a unique white color dubbed Alpine. Other standard IS F amenities include powered front seats, dual climate control, a powered moon roof, a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, automatic on/off HID headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and tons more. Throughout the cabin, the ‘F’ is emblazoned reminding the driver that this is no ordinary IS.

Surely, the best sound track of the car should be provided by the V8 engine. Still, Lexus did provide a high-power, high-quality audio system in the IS F. The “standard” audio system features a six-disc in-dash CD changer and 13 speakers. For the serious audiophile though, it’s best to upgrade to the Lexus exclusive Mark Levinson 14-speaker system that offers a 7.1 surround sound experience. It has 10 amplifier channels that pump out 300 watts peak output each. It’s total harmonic distortion is less than 0.1 percent. Plus, CDs, DVD movies, MP3-filled CDs and external audio/video devices can be played through the 7-inch color LCD screen.

On paper, the Lexus IS F looks like the new super sports sedan to beat. Take note though that it’s actually fighting in a territory occupied by the likes of the iconic BMW M3 and monstrous Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG. But, Lexus has done their homework, extensively testing the IS F in places like Germany’s Nurburgring Nordschleife, Circuit Paul Ricard in France and Japan’s Fuji Speedway. Now, whether or not the buying public accepts a high-performance Lexus, only time can tell; but one thing is for certain: the Germans have a new rival in town, and this one’s not going down without a fight.