TORRANCE, CA – With the recent introduction of the IS F, Lexus has gotten serious about becoming a competitor in the high performance segment, according to www.searchchicago.suntimes.com.  

Electronic features found on the IS F include the SmartAccess key fob, which allows the driver to open doors and the trunk, and it even starts the car without removing the fob from a purse or pocket. A navigation system and rear backup camera are available as optional equipment. A 13-speaker sound system is standard. An optional 14-speaker 300-watt Mark Levinson sound system with a seven-inch navigation screen allows DVD playback when the vehicle is in park.

The IS F is powered by an exclusive 5.0L V-8 engine and produces 416 horsepower and 371 pounds-feet of torque. This large dose of power allows the IS F to have a reported acceleration from 0-to-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and a limited top speed of 170 mph.

The vehicle also features a dual air intake system that uses a primary intake passage for low and medium engine speeds. In the higher rpm range above 3,600 rpm, both the primary and secondary passages open boosting power and producing a nice roar.

The IS F is capable of making upshifts in just one-tenth of a second, as well as downshifts at two-tenths of a second. Drivers have their choice of putting the car in drive and letting the transmission choose the proper gear. Or they can put the car in manual mode and shift the gears themselves with the shifter. Paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel allow up and down shifts at any time even when the vehicle in the drive mode.

The IS F is scheduled to hit the showroom floors sometime this spring, but a specific date has not been announced. Base price will be $56,000.