New for the 2014 Lexus IS F are LED foglamps and carbon fiber rear spoiler. Inside the car, all headrests are embossed with F logo, Alcantara trim is added to doors and center console cover and new black full semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats replaces the black Alcantara and leather-trimmed seats. The red leather-trimmed seats receive black Alcantara inserts with red perforation and black leather-trimmed headrests.
Lexus IS F is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engineered specifically for the IS F. The aluminum V8 emphasizes both high output and high durability. The engine produces a rousing 416 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 371 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,200 rpm. The eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission proves a willing partner on road or track.
For maximum performance, the driver can shift manually with steering wheel paddle shifters in either D or M modes, but in M mode, the transmission will hold each gear to the 6,800-rpm redline and execute ultra-quick shifts in one-tenth of a second. In M mode, the transmission “blips” the throttle to match engine rpm to vehicle speed, which helps maintain traction and control, especially when slowing through curves. A Torsen rear differential helps provide additional traction in spirited driving.
Selecting Normal, Sport or Snow driving modes alters the car’s dynamic control systems to sharpen performance or increase comfort and traction. As part of the IS F development program, Lexus worked with Michelin and Bridgestone to develop tires specifically for the car’s 170-mph track capability. The wheels and tires follow racecar convention, with wider, lower profile tires on the rear. The front wheels are 19 x 8.5-inch, with 225/40R19 tires and 19 x 9.5-inch in the rear, with 255/35R19 tires. In front, powerful Brembo six-piston aluminum calipers grip 14.2-inch ventilated and drilled rotors, while the 13.6-inch ventilated, drilled rear rotors use two-piston calipers.
